A purpose of a mouthguard is to defend the teeth, gums, and jaw during physical impacts or internal ones like teeth grinding. The material used to create them is often strong and flexible so that it can withstand grinding or the impact of a blow to the mouth. Anyone who plays contact sports or has a history of teeth grinding or clenching should wear a mouthguard in order to safeguard their teeth from damage and to preserve their overall health.
Maintaining good dental health requires taking precautions to protect your smile when exercising. A hit to the mouth can be very harmful, and even has the potential to result in tooth loss. Over time, teeth and the jaw might sustain significant harm from teeth grinding or clenching. The cushioning effect that mouthguards have can help to ward off harm and safeguard the teeth and gums.
Types of Mouthguards
Two of the main types of mouthguards are described in detail below:
Sports Mouthguards
In contact sports like football, boxing, and hockey, athletic mouthguards are made to safeguard the teeth, gums, and jaw. They are intended to absorb impact and prevent injury to the mouth and are frequently made of a thicker, more resilient material than nightguards.
Athletic mouthguards come in three varieties: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-fit. Stock mouthguards have a predetermined size and form and are pre-made. The thermoplastic material used to make boil-and-bite mouthguards softens in hot water and may be shaped to suit the wearer’s teeth. An imprint of the wearer’s teeth is used to create a custom-fit mouthguard, providing a flawless fit.
Night Guards
Occlusal splints, also referred to as nightguards, are intended to shield the teeth and jaw from the harm caused by teeth grinding or clenching while you sleep. They are intended to be worn while you sleep and are typically made of a thinner, less bulky material than athletic mouthguards.
There are two types of nightguards: over-the-counter and custom-made. Over-the-counter nightguards may be bought online or at a pharmacy and are made to suit the teeth of the majority of individuals. An imprint of the wearer’s teeth is used to create a custom nightguard, guaranteeing a flawless fit and providing the greatest amount of protection against teeth grinding and clenching.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard
The type of activity and desired amount of protection must be considered while selecting a mouthguard. Important things to think about are fit, comfort, durability, and cleaning convenience.
When selecting a mouthguard, there are certain factors that should be taken into consideration. To begin with, the size and fit should be evaluated carefully; too large of a guard may not provide proper protection whereas one that is too tight might be uncomfortable to wear. Moreover, different fabrics used for manufacturing – such as silicone, rubber and polyurethane – can offer varying levels of comfort and protection. Therefore, it is essential to select according to the user’s needs.
When selecting dental guards and appliances near you, it’s critical to consider both the expenses and the positive aspects. Custom-fit mouthguards can cost more than store-bought alternatives, but they could provide better protection and last longer.
Conclusion
Choosing a suitable mouthguard is crucial for safeguarding your teeth and avoiding severe harm. In order to meet your requirements and price range, Eagle Landing Dental provides a selection of high-quality dental guards and appliances in Chilliwack.
Whether you require a mouthguard for sports or to prevent teeth from grinding at sleep, our skilled dentist in Chilliwack can assist you in making the right decision. You may feel secure knowing that your teeth and mouth are protected if you use a mouthguard that is comfortably fitted.