Do you or your child play sports? Wearing a mouthguard during contact sports protects the smile. Athletes need to wear a mouthguard for any sport with contact between players, like football, basketball, or hockey.
As a general dental treatment, a sports mouthguard offers preventative care. Mouthguards prevent chips, cracks, and breaks in the tooth enamel. We also recommend mouthguards for patients with braces. Dr. Michael Sesi can create custom mouthguards in Clarkston, MI. Dr. Sesi also offers general dental care services at our Clarkston, MI, dental office.
Custom Mouthguard Treatment in Clarkston, MI
We take digital dental impressions to create customized mouthguards for our patients. Our team sends these impressions to a dental lab that creates custom mouthguards.
Once the mouthguards are complete, we ensure they fit patients comfortably. Ill-fitting mouthguards can fall out when athletes are playing, so it is important for the sports mouthguard to fit.
Some athletes may feel like they need to clench their teeth to keep their mouthguards in place. Customized mouthguards allow athletes to focus on the game, not their appliance. Additionally, clenching teeth places pressure on the jaw bone and muscles, which can lead to TMJ disorders over time. For more information on how we diagnose and treat TMJ disorders, please visit TMJ Treatment.
To care for your sports mouthguard, rinse it with soap and warm water. Do not use hot water because this can warp and damage the mouthguard. Place your mouthguard in its case when it is not in use.
Are Nightguards and Mouthguards the Same?
Although nightguards and mouthguards may seem similar, they come with several differences. Nightguards treat bruxism or teeth clenching and grinding. Patients with TMJ disorders often grind their teeth unconsciously or during sleep.
We craft nightguards from hard acrylic plastic that covers the top or bottom row of teeth. Sports mouthguards are made of a rubbery, flexible plastic that covers the front teeth and braces. You cannot use mouthguards and nightguards interchangeably.
Custom Mouthguard FAQs
Custom mouthguards and nightguards protect your teeth when you need them most. Read the answers to these commonly asked questions to learn more.
How long do custom mouthguards last?
The length of time your mouthguard lasts corresponds to the type of mouthguard and how much you use it. Sports mouthguards can go through some pretty tough stuff. We recommend that you get a new mouthguard before the beginning of each new sports season. If you see any wear or tear on them, it’s a sign you need a replacement. Guards for other conditions, like TMJ, can last months to years.
Can I drink water with my mouthguard in?
Yes, one of the perks of custom mouthguards for sports is that you don’t have to take them out of your mouth to get a quick water break. Water is the only food or beverage that you should consume while you have the guard in. Food can gauge or take off chunks of the guard, providing bacteria a good space to hide and limiting the guard’s efficacy. Acidic beverages can compromise the guard’s integrity.
Can a custom mouthguard move my teeth?
No, it shouldn’t be tight enough to shift your teeth. Custom guards fit snug enough so that you don’t have to clench your teeth to keep them in, but not tight enough that you should feel sore or uncomfortable. If you’re feeling these things, it’s a sign your guard doesn’t fit properly.
What happens if I don’t clean my mouthguard?
Just because you don’t see anything on your mouthguard doesn’t mean bacteria aren’t there. You transfer bacteria from your mouth onto the guard whenever you wear it. Without washing it, they continue to build up on it. You may see signs of plaque and tartar buildup, calcium deposits, or mold. Bacteria can cause your mouthguard to smell bad and can even kill you.
Why are mouthguards usually made for just the top arch of teeth?
Your upper teeth protrude more, making them more likely to suffer from damage. We prioritize the top teeth, particularly when it comes to contact sports. Sometimes, we make guards for both sets of teeth. TMJ guards and sleep apnea devices may require both.
Are custom mouthguards worth it?
Absolutely. Custom mouthguards have many advantages over drugstore options. They’re more durable and made from better materials than over-the-counter guards. You don’t have to clench your teeth to keep it in, avoiding complications in your jaw joint. Since they’re custom, you’re guaranteed to get a perfect fit every time.
Contact Our Dental Office
Call us for a custom-made sports mouthguard at 248-985-2906. You can also request a dental appointment with our team online. Please let us know if you have questions about your treatment options or any current concerns. We can help your whole family find the right care for their needs.