Why Are Dentists Recommending Mouthguards for Safeguarding Your Teeth?

Devices called mouthguards are recommended for protecting your teeth by dentists from injuries when involved in contact sports. They can also help you overcome snoring and relieve obstructive sleep apnea. However, not all mouthguards are created equal, and there are three varieties available depending on your unique requirements. Continue reading to learn more about the different types of mouthguards and the range best suited for specific situations.

What Are the Different Types of Mouthguards?

• Stock mouthguards are widely available and the most inexpensive variety. They can be obtained from sporting goods stores as well as drug stores. Stock mouthguards only cover the upper teeth and are available in small, medium, and large sizes. This variety is easy to find and affordable but does not provide a proper fit making it challenging for you to speak when wearing one.
• Boil and bite mouthguards are similar to stock mouthguards and are available in drugstores while being relatively inexpensive. Boil and bite mouthguards are available in a single size that must be customized to fit your teeth. The mouthguards must be boiled until it softens and placed over your front teeth before biting down. You must follow the instructions of the manufacturer to get the best fit.
• Custom mouth guards from dentists can be obtained from your dentist, who takes a mold of your teeth to create the device for the structure of your teeth and mouth. This variety is the best available because it is comfortable and challenging to dislodge when you’re sleeping. Customized mouth guards are more expensive but are suitable if you are looking for teeth grinding guard or night guard for teeth.

Which Type Should You Prefer?

Different types of mouthguards appear similar to each other, but their functions vary.

Certain sporting activities involve a high risk of impacts resulting in injuries. Sports mouth guards can help you to protect your teeth and avoid damages to your tongue and lips. You can consider a stock mouthguard or boil and bite mouthguard for sporting activities.

The problem of bruxism causes you to clench and grind your teeth when sleeping. Bruxism is a sleep-related disorder that can result in tooth pain, sore gums, and jaw pain. Wearing a mouthguard is recommended for patients with bruxism, but the dentist in Oshawa, ON, recommends a custom mouthguard instead of over-the-counter varieties to deal with this condition.

If you are affected by disorders of the temporomandibular joint, you will be recommended a TMJ mouth guard by mouthguards in Oshawa, ON. Here again, the device is customized for your mouth and teeth and ensures you get a proper fit to help you deal with the particular issue bothering you.

Mouthguards are also effective against issues like sleep apnea, which is again a severe sleep disorder that causes you to stop breathing when sleeping temporarily. Sleep apnea can prevent your brain from receiving sufficient oxygen and increasing your risks of heart disease and strokes. It also causes excessive snoring leaving you feeling tired and groggy during the day.

Caring for Your Mouth Guards

Wearing mouthguards help to protect your teeth from damage, but it is also essential for you to care for the mouthguard and keep it clean as it remains in your mouth for extended periods. If you want to get the best out of the protective device, you must follow the steps recommended in this blog:

• Brushing and flossing your teeth before putting your mouth called on is essential.
• The mouthguard must be rinsed in cold water or mouthwash before wearing it and also taking it out. Hot water must be avoided because they can become warped.
• A toothbrush and toothpaste are appropriate for cleaning the mouthguard after every use.
• You must check for any signs of damage to the mouthguard, which indicate it must be replaced.
• Take your mouthguard to your dentist during your regular appointments because they can ensure it fits properly and functions effectively.
• The mouthguard must be stored in a hard container with ventilation to protect it and dry it out between uses.

Do not assume that the mouthguard will last forever. Replace the mouthguard immediately as you notice any signs of damage or every couple of years. Stock and boil and bite mouthguards need replacements frequently compared to a custom mouthguard.

If you are still not sure why you need to change mouthguards, visit our dental clinic Conlin Dentistry in Oshawa, ON to consult our dentist about why changing of mouthguards is required.