Blog

The Essential Guide to Mouthguards and Their Role in Dental Wellness

Posted by Dr. Bipinjit Kaur on Feb 5 2024, 08:42 AM

The Essential Guide to Mouthguards and Their Role in Dental Wellness

Whether you're an athlete or someone who grinds their teeth at night, a mouthguard is a key tool for protecting your pearly whites. From protecting your teeth and jaw during sports activities to preventing injuries and reducing the risk of concussion, a well-fitted mouthguard is an investment worth making.

Types of Mouthguards

When it comes to protecting your teeth during sports or other physical activities, mouthguards in Tracy, CA, are an essential piece of equipment. There are several types of mouthguards available, each with its own unique benefits and features.

We have stock mouthguards. These pre-formed guards can be found at most sporting goods stores and are ready to wear right out of the package. While they provide a basic level of protection, they often don't fit well and can make breathing and talking difficult.

Next up is boil-and-bite mouthguards. As the name suggests, these guards are first softened in hot water before being molded to fit your teeth. This customization ensures a better fit than stock guards but still may not be as comfortable as a custom-made option.

We have custom-made mouthguards which offer the highest level of protection and comfort. These guards are made by dental professionals using impressions of your teeth for a precise fit. Though more expensive than other options, custom-made mouthguards provide optimal protection against injuries such as broken teeth and jaw fractures.

It's important to choose the type that works best for you based on factors like budget, comfort, and level of activity. Remember that wearing any type of properly fitting mouthguard is better than no protection at all. To get yours, contact our dentist in Tracy, CA, now!

The Benefits of Using a Mouthguard in Tracy, CA

Protecting your teeth and mouth should be a priority, especially if you participate in activities that carry the risk of dental injuries. This is where mouthguards in Tracy, CA, come in handy. Whether you're an athlete or someone who grinds your teeth at night, using a mouthguard can provide various benefits.

  • First and foremost, wearing a mouthguard during sports activities can significantly reduce the risk of dental trauma. Accidental blows to the face or jaw are common in contact sports like football or hockey, and without proper protection, these impacts can lead to broken teeth, concussions, or even jaw fractures. A well-fitted mouthguard acts as a cushion between your teeth and soft tissues, absorbing shock and minimizing the chances of severe injury.
  • Moreover, for those who suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), wearing a night guard while sleeping can alleviate many associated problems. Teeth grinding puts excessive pressure on your teeth, which may result in tooth wear, cracked enamel, headaches, jaw pain, and TMJ disorders. Wearing a custom-made night guard helps create a barrier between your upper and lower arches, preventing further damage caused by clenching or grinding.
  • Additionally, oral appliances such as mandibular advancement devices (MAD) used to treat sleep apnea also function similarly to mouthguards by repositioning your lower jaw forward during sleep. This opens up the airway passage, allowing for better airflow and reducing snoring episodes.
  • Furthermore,user-mouth guards, such as braces, fixed retainers, and clear aligners, help protect orthodontic work from damage due to impact forces. Many people find comfort in knowing that their investment is protected with the regular use of properly fitting types of mouthguards in Tracy, CA, available today.

How to Properly Care for Your Mouthguard

Proper care and maintenance of your mouthguard is essential to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. Here are some tips on how to properly care for your mouthguard in Tracy, CA:

  1. Rinse after use: After each use, rinse your mouthguard with cool water or a mild antiseptic mouthwash to remove any bacteria or debris.
  2. Brush gently: Use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to brush your mouthguard. Avoid using hot water as it can warp the material.
  3. Store in a clean case: Always store your mouthguard in a clean, ventilated case to protect it from dirt, germs, and damage.
  4. Keep away from heat: Avoid leaving your mouthguard in direct sunlight or near any sources of heat, as this can cause it to deform.
  5. Regular inspections: Periodically inspect your mouthguard for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, holes, or loose areas that may affect its fit.
  6. Replace when necessary: Mouthguards have a limited lifespan due to wear and tear. It is recommended to replace them every six months or sooner if they become damaged.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your mouthguard remains hygienic and effective in providing protection during sports activities or teeth grinding at night.

Get the best dental services from theexpert teamof dental assistants led byDr. Bipinjit Kaurat Tracy Arch Dental, Tracy, California. For more details and appointments, call us at (209) 820-0789,book online, or visit us at 1920 West Grant Line Road, Tracy, CA 95376.

Share On

Leave A Reply

Please fill all the fields.
Location

1920 West Grant Line Road,
Tracy, CA 95376

Phone: (209) 820-0789

Fax: (209) 221-0167

Office Hours

MON - THU 8:30 am - 5:30 pm

FRI By appointments only.

SAT - SUN Closed

Get in Touch

Email: archdentists@gmail.com

Call: (209) 820-0789