If you or your children play sports, your smile may be highly exposed to injuries and damage. A solution to this may be getting a custom mouthguard made by your dentist in South Edmonton. Mouthguards can help patients avoid many dental emergencies and issues that greatly affect their dental health. A sports guard can prevent injuries such as tooth cracks, broken teeth, or knocked-out teeth.
Wearing a mouthguard will act as a protective layer over your smile. This device will prevent dangerous injuries that may be caused by trauma to the face during physical activity. It can also aid in the prevention of neck and jaw injuries. At Landmark Dental, we strongly recommend mouthguards as a preventative measure to ensure you are promoting good oral health and avoiding an emergency.
Types of Mouthguards
In most cases, mouthguards are worn on the upper gum line only. The best guards will remain in place during use and will be comfortable to wear. It should also allow you to speak and breathe properly. There are three types of mouthguards available to patients, and these include:
1) Stock mouthguards
These devices are ready-to-wear and can be purchased at many sporting stores. They are an inexpensive option yet offer very little protection for your smile. The shape of these mouthguards can also be uncomfortable and make speaking and breathing difficult.
2) Boil-and-bite mouthguards
This is an over-the-counter option that’s also readily available. They may be a bit more comfortable than basic stock mouthguards. When you purchase one, you are buying a kit that contains a plastic apparatus which can be softened with hot water. The patient will then bite into it to shape it. Once this is done, it is better for use.
3) Custom-fitted mouthguards
Custom mouthguards in South Edmonton are the best, most successful option a dentist near you can offer. They offer the highest degree of protection since they are designed uniquely for every patient. Your dentist will use a mold of your smile to create the guard and ensure it satisfies your oral dimensions.
Patients Who Have Braces
Many patients amid orthodontic treatment may be unsure if mouthguards will still protect their smile. They may mistakenly believe their dental appliances will not allow them to wear a sports guard. However, custom mouthguards can be made to fit over your braces so there’s no need to worry. With that said, stock and boil-and-bite mouthguards may not work for you.
When Should Patients Wear a Mouthguard?
Sports are one of the main causes of dental emergencies. Those individuals who play contact sports such as football, rugby, hockey, and lacrosse should dutifully care for their smiles. A lot of other activities may also require a mouthguard for additional protection. These non-contact sports or activities include:
- Gymnastics
- Wrestling
- Martial Arts
- Biking
- Weightlifting
- Volleyball
- Soccer
- Squash
Your dentist may recommend a mouthguard if you tend to grind your teeth or are experiencing temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). In these scenarios, the dental guard is worn overnight to protect teeth from the consequences of bruxism/ The pain and discomfort that arises from these problems can be solved with a mouthguard.
Where to get a Custom Mouthguard in South Edmonton
The majority of, if not all dental offices offer mouthguard services to help patients protect their oral health. However, finding a quality dental clinic for your unique case is important for a smooth appointment with a trusted dentist.
If you have been looking for mouthguard services near you, we are here to help! Our staff at Landmark Dental will be happy to assist you in protecting your smile. Contact us today to book your next appointment.