Mouth guards are devices placed in the mouth used to cover teeth. They are used in sporting activities to prevent dental injuries, and they are commonly worn at night to prevent injury from teeth grinding. While there are mouth guards that are available from local sporting goods stores, dentists highly recommend custom fitted mouth guards for anyone who needs them.
Custom fitted mouth guards are individually designed and are made in a dental office or laboratory. An impression mold is made of a person’s teeth so that the custom fitted mouth guards will fit properly in the mouth. The actual mouth guard will be molded over the impression to ensure an exact, custom piece is made. As with all dental devices, the more securely a mouth guard fits in the mouth the more effective it is at doing its job.
Mouth guards should be used by anyone who participates in a contact sport such as football, soccer, hockey, basketball, etc. These sports commonly see dental injuries on the field or court. However, even non contact sports (e.g, baseball or gymnastics) and recreational activities (e.g. biking) can pose a risk of injury to the mouth.
Mouth guards are should also be used in patients who grind their teeth. A properly fitted mouth guard can help prevent tooth damage by those who clench their jaws and grind their teeth while sleeping.
Family & Cosmetic Dental Care is a family centered dental practice that is here to help you maintain optimal oral health. We can custom make a mouth guard to help protect your mouth from sports related injuries and damage caused by teeth grinding. Call today to schedule an appointment for a custom fitted mouth guard which will fit properly in the mouth.
Posted by Mitul Patel DDS, Family & Cosmetic Dental Care
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