Mouthguards

Severe oral injuries can happen to anyone, at any time. Sudden injuries and accidents can leave you embarrassed and in pain. Often, oral emergencies require extensive restorative care. These treatments can be lengthy and costly.

 

Because of this, we believe efforts in prevention are worth it. At Mary Ellen Wynn, DDS, we offer a variety of mouthguards to protect your teeth from sudden or severe injuries.

 

What are mouthguards used for?

Mouthguards are custom devices that can be worn to protect your teeth from a sudden impact. These are most common among those who participate in high-contact sports such as boxing, wrestling, and football. However, they are also popular among those who participate in sports such as gymnastics and skating.

 

Oral injuries can happen in any sport. Even if you or your children do not participate in high-risk sports, it is best to be safe and prepared.

 

What kinds of mouthguards can I choose from?

There are three main types of mouthguards – stock, boil and bite, and custom-fitted.

Stock mouthguards are mass-produced, pre-formed oral devices. They are relatively inexpensive and come ready to use. However, because of the way they are made they often do not fit well, are bulky, and can make it difficult to breathe.

 

Boil and bite mouthguards are a bit better than stock guards because they are made to fit around your teeth. These plastic guards are boiled and placed in a plastic tray. The tray is then placed into the mouth. After biting down into the softened mouthguard, it will form around your teeth before hardening. Unfortunately, these guards are often uncomfortable and bulky. Like the stock guards, they may make breathing and speaking more difficult, and they are not as durable as mouthguards designed by Dr. Wynn.

 

Custom-fit mouthguards are crafted just for you! They are made of durable, high-quality material to provide long-lasting protection. These guards help keep your jaw in its proper position — allowing you to breathe easier during strenuous activities. Because of the quality material and customization, these guards provide more reliable protection than any of the other options.

 

How do I care for my mouthguard?

Like any other dental equipment, mouthguards need special care. They should be scrubbed with a toothbrush and toothpaste after every use. Between uses, store them in a protective case and keep them away from direct sunlight or hot water.

 

Most mouthguards need to be replaced at the beginning of each new sports season. If a mouthguard feels uncomfortable or is too big or too small, schedule an appointment so your guard can be properly adjusted.

 

To learn more about custom mouthguards call our friendly staff at Mary Ellen Wynn, DDS. We will be happy to answer any questions or schedule a consultation to discuss your treatment options.