At Burkburnett Family Dental, we understand the importance of protecting your teeth. A custom mouthguard offers many benefits, whether you participate in sports or suffer from bruxism. We provide custom mouthguards as one of our general dentistry services. Learn more about how a custom mouthguard can improve your dental health.
What are Custom Mouth Guards?
A custom mouth guard is a protective device for the mouth. It’s made to fit the unique shape of your teeth and gums. Its primary purpose is to prevent injury to your teeth and jaw. Unlike generic store-bought options, custom mouthguards offer better protection and comfort.
Custom mouthguards are especially important for athletes. They help prevent serious injuries during contact sports, such as broken teeth, jaw fractures, and soft tissue injuries to the lips and tongue. A well-fitted mouthguard can also reduce the risk of concussions.
Custom mouth guards are essential for people who grind their teeth at night, also known as bruxism. Grinding can lead to worn teeth, jaw pain, and headaches. A night guard helps cushion the teeth and reduce the strain placed on the jaw muscles.
Types of Custom Mouthguards
- Sports Mouthguards: These are designed for athletes to protect their teeth during sports activities. They reduce the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face, and jaw.
- Night Guards for Bruxism: These are for people who grind or clench their teeth at night. They help prevent tooth damage, jaw pain, and other related problems.
Sports mouthguards come in various thicknesses and levels of protection. The choice depends on the sport and the level of contact involved. For example, a football player might need a thicker, more durable mouthguard than a basketball player. Night guards are usually thinner but are designed to withstand the constant pressure of teeth grinding.
Getting a Custom Mouthguard in Burkburnett, TX
The first step in getting a custom mouthguard is a consultation. Our dentist will examine your teeth during this visit and discuss your needs. This ensures that the mouth guard will be tailored to fit your unique dental structure.
During the consultation, we will discuss your lifestyle and any activities you participate in. This helps us determine the best type of mouthguard for you. An athlete will need a different mouth guard than someone who grinds their teeth at night.
We will also review your dental history, including any past injuries or dental work. This information helps us create a mouthguard that provides optimal protection and comfort.
Digital Impression or Mold Taking
After the consultation, we will take a digital impression or mold of your teeth. This ensures that the mouthguard will fit perfectly. The process is quick and painless. It allows for a precise fit, providing maximum comfort and protection.
The impression process involves using a special material to mold your teeth. This mold captures every detail of your dental structure. The digital impression may use advanced scanning technology to create a 3D model of your teeth. This model is then used to design the mouthguard.
Taking an accurate impression is crucial. A well-fitted mouthguard should feel comfortable and not cause any irritation. It should stay in place during use and not interfere with breathing or speech.
Customization and Fitting
Once the impression is made, the mouthguard is customized to fit your teeth. Once the mouthguard is ready, you will come in for a fitting. Our dentist will ensure that it fits properly and make any necessary adjustments.
The customization process includes selecting the appropriate materials based on your needs. Sports mouthguards are usually made from durable, shock-absorbing materials. On the other hand, night guards are often made from softer, more flexible materials.
During the fitting appointment, we will check the mouth guard for fit and comfort and make any adjustments to ensure it fits perfectly. A well-fitted mouthguard should not cause discomfort or pain and provide a secure and comfortable fit.
Maintenance and Care Tips
To protect your teeth properly, you must ensure your mouthguard is cared for properly. If it’s not, you’re in danger of mouth injury, and the mouthguard may not be doing its job right.
Cleaning and Storing
- Rinse the mouth guard before and after each use with cool water.
- Use a toothbrush and mild soap to clean it thoroughly.
- Store the mouth guard in a sturdy, ventilated case.
Proper cleaning and storage are essential for maintaining the mouthguard’s effectiveness. Rinsing the mouthguard with cool water helps remove any debris or saliva. Using a toothbrush and mild soap ensures it stays clean and bacteria-free. Avoid using hot water as it can warp the material.
Storing the mouth guard in a sturdy, ventilated case helps prevent damage and keeps it clean. A ventilated case allows air to circulate, preventing the buildup of bacteria. Always dry the mouth guard before storing it to avoid mold growth.
Regular Inspection for Wear and Tear
It’s important to regularly inspect your mouthguard for signs of wear and tear. Look for any cracks, holes, or other damage. If you notice any issues, contact our office for a replacement.
Regular inspection ensures that the mouthguard continues to provide adequate protection. Even small cracks or holes can reduce its effectiveness. If you notice any damage, it’s important to replace the mouthguard promptly.
Regular check-ups with your dentist will also help monitor the condition of the mouth guard. During these visits, our dentist can examine the mouth guard and make any necessary recommendations for replacement.
Replacement Guidelines
Mouthguards do not last forever. Depending on the type and frequency of use, they may need to be replaced every 6 to 12 months. Regular check-ups with your dentist will ensure that your mouthguard continues to provide optimal protection.
Frequent use and intense sports activities can cause wear and tear for athletes. Night guards may also need to be replaced regularly due to the constant pressure from teeth grinding. Following the recommended replacement schedule ensures that the mouth guard remains effective.
If you notice any discomfort or changes in the fit of your mouthguard, it might be time for a replacement. A well-fitted mouthguard should always provide a comfortable and secure fit.
Why Choose Us for Your Custom Mouth Guard Needs?
At Burkburnett Family Dental, we have extensive experience creating custom dental appliances. Our team of skilled professionals ensures that each mouthguard is made to the highest standards, guaranteeing the best possible fit and protection.
We take pride in offering personalized care to each of our patients. Our dentist will work closely with you to understand your needs and create a mouthguard that meets them. We are committed to ensuring your comfort and satisfaction.
Every patient is unique, and we understand that. During your consultation, we take the time to listen to your concerns and understand your lifestyle. This allows us to create a mouthguard tailored to your specific needs.
Schedule an Appointment
Protect your smile from teeth grinding and contact sports. Call our office or schedule an appointment online to get started.