How to Get Used to a Mouth Guard
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you were injured or lost one or more of your teeth. This would affect all the smiling, speaking and chewing of food, as well as your overall health.
Protecting your teeth and mouth is extremely important for injury prevention. A mouth guard is an effective way of preventing the risk of injuries to the face and mouth. You can talk to your dentist regarding your need for a mouth guard.
This article provides an overview of what exactly is a mouth guard, its use, its types, and other questions regarding mouth guards that you might be wondering about.
What Is A Mouth Guard? What Is It Used For?
Mouth guards are protectors for your teeth. These removable pieces that are worn over your teeth protect them from sports injuries, teeth grinding and teeth clenching.
Mouth guards normally apply to the upper teeth only. However, you can also get a mouth guard for your lower teeth. Talking to you dentist will help determine the best type of mouthguard for you.
Though there are different types of available mouthguards available, most are developed from acrylic plastic material. Good mouth guards are comfortable and allow you to speak and breathe easily. These sturdy and easily maintained pieces support the teeth structure and protect your teeth.
Talk to your dentist to learn how to prevent damage to your teeth, lips, and tongue as well as the surrounding soft tissues.
Types Of Mouthguards
You may be wondering about the different types of mouthguards that are available and their exact purpose. The three main types are:
Stock Mouthguards
These premade, ready to wear pieces found at sporting goods and grocery stores are inexpensive, but non-adjustable with availability in only 2 to 3 sizes. Furthermore, their bulky nature hinders talking and breathing. These characteristics make stock mouthguards the lesser preferred and least recommended option by dentists.
Boil and Bite Mouth Guards
These are mouth guards that are boiled and bitted for molding.
Also available at sporting goods stores, they are made of thermoplastic material that melts upon contact with boiling heat. They soften and mold according to your fit when pressed down over the teeth in your mouth.
Even though they offer a better fit, they can cause problems for your teeth and are therefore not recommended for long term use.
Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards
As the name suggests, these are custom made mouth guards developed from impressions taken of your teeth. These pricier mouth protectors are modeled and created in a dental office or a dental laboratory.
Because they are created on an individual basis, they require skill and good material for a properly fitted mouth guard. Dentists recommend this mouth guard type that most effectively protects your teeth.
Is It Possible To Swallow A Mouth Guard While Sleeping?
You may share the fear of swallowing or choking on a mouthguard while sleeping.
However, rest assured that it’s impossible to swallow a mouth guard while sleeping. The shape and size of your mouth guard doesn’t allow for movement that could lead to swallowing or choking. There is no need for concern so speak with your dentist if you need a mouth guard.
FAQS About Use Of Mouthguard:
Does Sleep Guard stop nighttime jaw clenching?
Yes, a sleep guard stops nighttime jaw clenching and serves as an immediate solution for bruxism.
How to boil a mouth guard?
Place a mouth guard in a container and pour boiling water on top. Let it sit for 30 seconds, and remove the guard. Steep it in cold water for a few seconds. Then bite down hard on the mouth guard for a max of 1 min. When the impressions are done correctly, the mouth guard fits your teeth perfectly. Allow it to cool and set permanently in cold water.
How to treat TMJ?
You can treat TMJ by consuming soft foods, using ice packs, exercising, taking medicines to relax muscles and control pain. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), ultrasound treatment, trigger-point injections, acupuncture, or surgery also help treat TMJ.
What are the differences between a groin guard and mouth guard?
Groin guards are made for training boxers from superior quality foam to prevent pain from contact shock, while mouthguards cover the teeth and gums to prevent any injury to the mouth.
Do I really need a night guard for bruxism?
Yes, you do need a night guard for bruxism to help prevent the effects bruxism.
Should I wear my night guard after wisdom teeth extraction?
Yes, you can wear your night guard after wisdom teeth extraction, as it will not interfere with the healing process of the wisdom teeth area.
How to prevent bruxism?
To prevent bruxism wear a night guard, exercise and relax, keep your teeth apart and stay aware of your mouth all the time, massage your jaws, seek help for your anxiety and stress, and avoid chewy foods and caffeine.
How much is a custom fit mouth guard?
Custom fitted mouth guard from a dentist costs between $300 and $700.
Why are dental mouth guards from dentists so expensive?
Dental mouth guards from the dentists are expensive because they are customized according to your upper and lower teeth, which takes time, skill and material.
Are you able to talk with a mouth guard?
Bulky mouthguards make talking difficult. However, custom made mouthguards that fit your teeth allow you to talk with ease.
Book Your Appointment At Dental Clinic In River Oaks
Mouthguards are created to provide protection and prevent the risks of injury to your teeth and gums, especially for athletes. Using a mouthguard eliminates risk so book an appointment now, to consult your dentist about it. Visit the nearest dental clinic in River Oaks for a custom made mouth guard to protect yourself from injuries.