MOUTH GUARDS AT VALLEY DENTAL
Custom-fitted mouth guards from a dental office are different from those that you might buy over the counter. These protective devices are often used to prevent teeth grinding or to shield the teeth and gums from damage during contact sports. However, they can also be used to prevent the shifting of teeth.
By exerting constant pressure, guards can potentially coax teeth into the right place so the wearer can forego more permanent appliances (e.g., braces, etc.). Dentists typically recommend getting mouth guards from a professional rather than purchasing them over the counter. Not only are they more reliable, but they also give dentists a way to guarantee the fit of the device to the exact shape of your mouth.
Who Needs a Mouth Guard?
Most experts recommend mouth guards during any kind of high-impact, close-contact athletic activity, such as hockey, football, etc. Mouth guards might be recommended if the patient’s teeth are slightly out of place or if the individual is grinding their teeth while asleep. They’re equally useful for both children and adults, though they are not designed for major adjustments to misaligned teeth. For more serious issues, most people will need braces or clear aligners to help. Our dental team can tell you more about whether a mouth guard will help.
WHY WEAR A MOUTH GUARD?
Mouth guards prevent chipped or lost teeth, as well as nerve damage. They protect the soft tissue of cheeks, gums, and lips from incidental teeth gnashing at night. Dental injuries, particularly when they happen in the chaos of sports, can be as painful as they are expensive. The protection that mouthguards provide in a fall can be truly invaluable.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO CARE FOR A MOUTH GUARD?
Because mouth guards can foster bacterial growth from your mouth, it’s important to clean them on a regular basis. Keep it stored in its case and away from high temperatures and use lukewarm water to avoid warping its shape. Use a brush and soap after each time you wear it, and ensure that you keep it away from pets that might think they have found a new chew toy.
How Long Does a Mouth Guard Last?
It depends on the type that you get. Valley Dental is here to help you find a mouth guard that fits your specific needs. Our staff wants your mouth guard to be as effective as possible for as long as possible. During your dental checkup, we can check the mouth guard so you know if and when it’s on the fringe.
Mouth Guards in Onalaska, WI
Our team at Valley Dental knows that sometimes a little protection can go a long way. Losing a tooth or having to repair nerve damage in a tooth can end up affecting oral health more than people realize. Remaining teeth will shift to fill in the gaps if one is lost, and nerve damage can end up being a problem with staying power. If you’re looking for a relatively easy way to avoid these hassles, we can have you fitted for a durable mouth guard that you can count on to protect you.
