top of page

Mouthguards

At Brittney K. Craig, DMD, we prioritize the health and safety of your smile. Mouthguards are a vital tool in safeguarding your teeth and oral structures from injury during sports or nighttime teeth grinding. In this brief guide, we'll explore the importance of mouthguards, their types, and how they can help you maintain a healthy smile.

Why Are Mouthguards Important? Mouthguards are custom-designed dental appliances that offer protection and comfort in various situations:

 

Sports: For athletes of all ages and levels, mouthguards are essential. They shield your teeth, lips, tongue, and jaw from potential impact during sports or physical activities, reducing the risk of dental injuries, fractures, and concussions.

 

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Nighttime teeth grinding, or bruxism, can lead to tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches. A custom mouthguard can prevent the harmful effects of grinding and clenching, preserving your dental health.

 

Types of Mouthguards:

  1. Sports Mouthguards: Designed to protect your teeth during physical activities, sports mouthguards are custom-fitted to your mouth for maximum comfort and protection. They come in various colors and designs to suit your style.

  2. Nightguards: Nightguards, or occlusal splints, are worn while sleeping to prevent tooth damage caused by bruxism. They create a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, alleviating the effects of grinding and clenching.

 

The Benefits of Mouthguards:

  • Dental Injury Prevention: Mouthguards absorb and distribute the force of impacts, reducing the risk of broken or knocked-out teeth and soft tissue injuries.

  • Jaw Protection: They can help prevent jaw fractures and dislocations, reducing the risk of long-term jaw problems.

  • Comfortable Fit: Custom-made mouthguards are comfortable to wear and won't interfere with speaking or breathing.

  • Preserve Dental Work: For individuals with braces or dental restorations, mouthguards protect these investments from damage during physical activities.

 

Caring for Your Mouthguard: Proper maintenance is essential to prolong the life of your mouthguard:

  • Rinse it with cold water before and after each use.

  • Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap.

  • Store it in a well-ventilated container to prevent bacteria growth.

  • Bring it to your dental check-ups for inspection and adjustments.

 

Whether you're an athlete or someone dealing with bruxism, a mouthguard is an investment in your oral health and well-being. It provides peace of mind and protection for your smile.

 

Get Your Custom Mouthguard: To ensure the highest level of protection and comfort, we offer custom-fitted mouthguards at Brittney K. Craig, DMD. If you or your child participate in sports or experience teeth grinding, please contact us to discuss your mouthguard options. We're here to help you maintain a healthy and confident smile.

bottom of page