Mouthguards are protective dental devices that cover the teeth' surfaces and protect them from injuries and damage.
Types of mouthguards
- 1)Stock mouthguards are based on the concept of one size fits all. These are readily available, but they rarely fit properly and offer almost no protection; therefore, dentists do not recommend them.
- 2)Boil and Bite mouthguards can be easily found in most drug stores and come in a few select sizes. These mouthguards can be modified to fit your teeth by keeping them in hot water and biting down your front teeth until it works properly.
- 3)Custom-made mouthguards - Your dentist makes these mouthguards to fit your individual needs. Your dentist will first take an impression of your upper and lower teeth to create a mold. This is used to customize your mouthguards. They offer the most superior fit and are specifically designed to serve the intended purpose, fit comfortably, and are harder to dislodge.
Who needs a mouthguard?
If you play contact or high-fall risk sports like boxing, martial arts, hockey, football, ice-skating, etc., you will need a mouthguard. Mouthguards cover your teeth and oral soft tissues, thus preventing injuries.
Teeth grinding weakens, damages, wears off the teeth structure and leads to jaw-joint disorders. Mouthguards prevent this by creating a barrier between upper and lower teeth.
Obstructive sleep apnea disrupts sleep and also leads to snoring. This negatively impacts everyday life, leads to chronic fatigue making it difficult to focus on anything. Custom-made mouthguards are used to alleviate symptoms of sleep apnea and ensure peaceful and sound sleep.
Schedule an appointment with us at Wilmington Orthodontic Center today if you think you may benefit from a mouthguard. If you have any questions or would like to know more about our services, please reach out to us, and we will be there to assist you in your journey to better oral health.
