Mouthguards to Protect Teeth

Mouthguards are for more than just sports.

What Are Mouthguards?

Mouthguards are protective devices that go over the gum and teeth to help protect the mouth from injury during sports.

They also help protect the teeth, arches, lips, and gums when you sleep if you are a teeth grinder or suffer from TMJ.

Who Uses Mouthguards?

People who play sports or have certain dental conditions such as TMJ or they grind their teeth in their sleep.

Is there a Difference Between Sports and Night Mouthguards?

There is a difference between sports mouthguards and those used as night mouthguards for dental treatments.

One of the main differences is that sports mouthguards are much thicker than the mouthguards used at night.

Sportsguards can be bought locally whereas a good dental night guard will have to be purchased from your dentist.

Another major difference between the two is that the sports mouthguard will cost much less than a night guard. The reason for this is because the night or dental guard is custom made for your mouth only.

The Dental Mouthguard

The dental mouthguard is used at night to protect the teeth when you sleep.

Reasons you would need a dental mouthguard at night are;

• TMJ
• You clench or grind your teeth in your sleep

Grinding or clenching your teeth at night can cause your teeth to become worn down long before they should be.

It can also cause your teeth to break or chip during the night or become weak enough to chip or break when you eat something hard.

If your dentist suggests a dental mouthguard to be worn at night, do not hesitate to purchase the custom-made night guard as it will help protect your teeth.

Your dental insurance may cover a portion of the mouthguard for teeth.