Mouthguards
Mouthguards are used for a variety of purposes today. Whether it is needed for protection during athletics or for the correction of a condition like bruxism, All Pro Dental Care can help residents of the Fairfax, VA and Merrifield area with a custom fitted mouthguard.
Mouthguards Q & A
What Are the Most Common Reasons That a Mouthguard Is Needed?
Many people need mouthguards because they participate in contact sports. People of any age, from young children to adults, can use mouthguards to protect their teeth in case of a collision. Sports that may require mouthguards include football, soccer, basketball, karate, and nearly anything that could have a risk of collision with other people or with objects. Another common reason for using mouthguards is bruxism, more commonly known as teeth grinding. Since bruxism usually happens while sleeping, patients typically wear their mouthguard all night to prevent damage to the teeth.
What Are Mouthguards Made From?
Mouthguard materials can vary widely. In customized mouthguards created by a dentist, the exterior of the mouthguard is usually a durable material like acrylic or acrylic hybrid. The inside of the mouthguard (the part that makes direct contact with the teeth) is a soft and pliable material that allows for the maximum level of comfort while wearing it. Other mouthguards, usually non-custom ones, are made entirely from a rubber material that bends easily.
Why Is a Custom Mouthguard The Safest Choice?
There are a number of different inexpensive mouthguard options sold at places like sporting goods stores, but those cheaply constructed mouthguards are "one size fits all." While such mouthguards may technically fit in the mouth, they very rarely cradle the teeth closely or come close to fitting correctly. Often, these mouthguards will shift around constantly due to the poor craftsmanship and inferior fit. This means that generic mouthguards are not going to offer nearly the level of protection that a custom-made mouthguard from the dentist will. The dentist will make molds of your teeth to ensure that the dental lab can create a mouthguard that will fit your mouth precisely without shifting or moving at all.