Mouthguards, also known as sports guards or mouth protectors, are a form of dental appliance used to protect the teeth and soft tissues of the mouth from damage while participating in physical activities. While mouthguards are commonly associated with athletes, they are used by a wide range of people for a variety of reasons. Consult with your dentist near you to determine the best type of treatment option or dental device that will help you preserve your oral health.
They are usually made of a thermoplastic material that is molded to fit over the teeth and gums and can be customized to fit precisely in the mouth. These devices can be sorted into three distinct types: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-fitted mouthguards.
Who Uses Mouthguards and why?
Athletes
Athletes that participate in sports such as football, rugby, hockey, basketball, boxing, and martial arts frequently use mouthguards. These sports entail a lot of physical contact, which increases the risk of dental injury. This device is vital for preventing tooth loss, jaw fractures, and other oral injuries and protecting teeth from collisions. They also cushion the sensitive tissues of the mouth, which helps to avoid cuts and bruising.
People who grind their teeth
People who grind and/or clench their teeth, a disorder known as bruxism, also wear mouthguards. This can harm your teeth and jaw, cause migraines, neck pain, and even tooth loss. A mouthguard can help prevent these issues by acting as a cushion between the teeth and preventing them from rubbing up against one another.
Children
Kids who participate in sports should also wear mouthguards to protect their smiles. Children’s teeth are still developing, making them more vulnerable to dental trauma than adults. A correctly fitted mouthguard can protect their teeth from being knocked out or fractured, preventing major dental trauma.
People with braces
People who use braces are also advised to wear mouthguards during vigorous activity to preserve their braces and teeth. While playing sports, braces can easily be damaged or destroyed, and a mouthguard can assist prevent this.
Sleep apnea
People who have sleep apnea, a disorder in which breathing is disrupted while sleeping, can also wear a mandibular advancement device, which is a type of mouthguard. This mouth guard works by moving the jaw and tongue during sleep to help keep the airway open and lessen the symptoms of sleep apnea.
Benefits of Mouthguards
Protection
Mouthguards are designed to protect the structures of your mouth from harm when participating in a number of activities. They can aid in the prevention of serious injuries such as broken teeth, fractured jaws, and concussions.
Comfort
A correctly fitted mouthguard can be comfortable to wear and can aid in the prevention of irritation and distress during athletic activity.
Prevention of bruxism
Mouthguards can be used to protect teeth from scraping against each other, which can result in wear, chipping, and fractures.
Improved sleep
Sleep apnea, a condition in which a person’s breathing is interrupted while sleeping, can be treated with mouthguards. Mouthguards can adjust the jaw and tongue during sleep, thereby minimizing the symptoms of sleep apnea.
Customization
Custom-fitted mouthguards are made to suit the individual’s mouth perfectly, providing the finest fit, comfort, and protection.
Longevity
A well-made mouthguard can endure for years, making it an affordable investment in dental health and preventing injuries.
It is important to consider dental guards and dental appliances near you to prevent damage or complications when it comes to your oral health.
Visit Bayview Village Dental if you are interested in saving your teeth from any damage or injury. We offer dental guards and dental appliances in North York to preserve your teeth and avoid further complications. If you are considering using a mouthguard for any reason, consult with our dentist in North York to identify the ideal type of mouthguard for you.