Custom Mouthguards

About Custom Mouthguards

Mouthguards are used to protect the teeth, gums and jaw from excessive wear or injury. 

There are two types of mouthguards: stock and custom. Stock mouthguards are pre-made and come in various sizes, while custom-fit mouthguards are made by a dentist according to the specific measurements of a patient’s mouth.

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Custom Night Guards (Occlusal Guards)

Night guards play a vital role in safeguarding the oral health of children. 

As the name suggests, they are worn at night to protect the teeth from clenching and grinding, known as bruxism.

Custom night guards are made to fit the unique shape and size of your child’s mouth. They are made from a sturdy, flexible material that helps cushion the teeth and jaw from clenching and grinding during sleep.

Bruxism can lead to:

• Worn-down or chipped teeth
• Jaw pain
• Headaches
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
• Damage to restorations (dental crowns, composite veneers, dental bonding)

Over time, the constant grinding can weaken tooth enamel, increase tooth sensitivity, and create alignment problems that may require dental work to correct.

How To Tell if Your Teen Needs a Custom Night Guard

If you notice any of the following signs, your teen may be grinding their teeth at night and could benefit from a custom night guard:

• They complain of jaw pain or headaches in the morning
• You can hear grinding noises during their sleep
• Their teeth are worn down or chipped
• They complain of tooth sensitivity
• They have difficulty opening or closing their mouth

Night guards and not usually recommended for young children because their teeth and jaw are still developing. For teens who have all their permanent teeth, a custom night guard can help prevent long-term dental issues.

Benefits of Custom Night Guards

1. Protects against dental damage: As mentioned, bruxism can cause significant wear on teeth over time. A custom guard provides a protective layer between the upper and lower teeth, preventing damage to the enamel. 
2. Relieves jaw pain and tension: By reducing pressure on the jaw muscles, it can help ease pain and discomfort caused by teeth grinding. 
3. Improves sleep quality:  Night guards can help reduce the frequency and intensity of teeth grinding, which can lead to a better night’s sleep. 
4. Cost-effective: Investing in a custom solution now can prevent expensive dental treatments in the future.

Custom Night Guard Fitting Process

The process of getting fitted for a custom night guard is simple and painless.

First, an impression is taken of their teeth. We do this by having your child bite into a soft material for a few seconds, which creates an exact mold of their teeth.

The impression is sent off to a dental lab, where the guard is custom-made.

Once it is ready, your child will come back for a fitting appointment. We will check that the guard fits correctly and make any necessary adjustments.

How to Care for A Custom Night Guard

• Regularly check for wear and tear: Inspect the guard for any signs of damage, such as holes, cracks, or sharp edges. If you notice any, contact your dentist for a replacement.
• Clean it regularly: Rinse the guard with cool water every morning and evening. Use a toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently brush away any bacteria or plaque build-up.
• Store it correctly: Keep the guard in its protective case when not in use to prevent damage or loss.
• Avoid heat: Do not leave the guard in direct sunlight or hot water, as this can cause distortion or warping of the material.

Custom Athletic Mouthguards

Custom athletic mouthguards are an essential piece of equipment for any athlete.

These mouthguards provide superior protection compared to OTC boil-and-bite options you can purchase at a store. They are custom-made to fit the unique shape of their mouth, providing a comfortable and secure fit.

Benefits of Custom Athletic Mouthguards

1. Protects against dental injuries: A custom mouthguard can help prevent tooth loss, broken teeth, and other facial injuries that can occur during sports activities. 
2. Comfortable fit: They are designed to fit your child’s unique mouth shape, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods compared to OTC options. 
3. Better breathing and speech: Due to the custom fit, athletes can talk and breathe more easily while wearing a custom mouthguard compared to OTC options that may be bulky or ill-fitting. 
4. Durable and long-lasting: Custom mouthguards are made with high-quality materials and are designed to withstand rigorous physical activity.

Fitting Process for Custom Athletic Mouthguard

The process of getting fitted for a custom athletic mouthguard is similar to that of a night guard.

An impression is taken of your child’s teeth, which is then sent off to a dental lab to create their personalized mouthguard.

Once it is ready, your child will come back for a fitting appointment. We will make sure the mouthguard fits correctly and provide instructions on how to properly wear and care for it.

How to Care for a Custom Athletic Mouthguard

1. Rinse with water: After each use, rinse the mouthguard with cool water to remove any debris.
2. Clean thoroughly: Use a toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently clean the inside and outside of the mouthguard at least once a week.
3. Store properly: Keep the mouthguard in its protective case when not in use to prevent damage or loss.
4. Regularly check for wear and tear: Inspect the mouthguard for any signs of damage, such as tears or holes, and replace it if necessary.
5. Keep away from heat:  Avoid leaving the mouthguard in direct sunlight or hot water, as this can cause distortion or warping.

The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

As a parent or caregiver, you have a lot of things to keep track of!

You might not notice that your child is clenching or grinding their teeth at night or that they have developed a dental issue. This is why regular visits to the dentist are crucial for maintaining their oral health.

During a routine dental exam, we can identify any potential issues and provide treatment before they become more severe.

Some benefits of regular dental checkups include:

• Monitoring the development of your child’s teeth and bite.
• Early detection and treatment of cavities or other dental issues.
• Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar build-up, which can lead to gum disease.