Are Mouthguards Effective in Protecting the Teeth?
Yes, mouthguards are effective in protecting your teeth. But, their effectiveness will depend on three factors; why you are getting them, the type of device you use, and how you take care of them.
It is important to consult a dentist before getting mouthguards near you to help you in choosing the right option.
What Are Mouthguards?
A mouthguard is a protective device mostly made of soft plastic and is used to cover the teeth and gums to protect them against injuries.
How Effective Are They?
When choosing the mouthguards in Bayport, NY, you need to focus on two things; the reason for getting them and the type.
- Reasons to get the mouthguards
The dentist will recommend mouthguards if you have any of the following:
- Sports injuries
According to American Dental Association, players who play contact sports without wearing mouthguards are twice more likely to get mouth injuries than those who do. Furthermore, reports state that about five million teeth are lost from sport-related accidents.
Wearing a mouthguard can help in preventing injuries to the teeth, gums, and soft tissues.
- Teeth grinding or Bruxism
Bruxism is the unconscious grinding and clenching of the teeth when nervous or stressed. In most cases, bruxism occurs at night, but it is possible to grind your teeth during the day, especially when you are in a stressful situation.
A dentist near Bayport can recommend mouthguards to protect the teeth from the pressure of grinding. Mouthguards do not necessarily stop bruxism but may keep the teeth from wearing down.
- Sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is when your breathing suddenly stops when you are sleeping. It causes you to snore as the body needs to open the airways to transport oxygen to the brain. Mouthguards are some of the devices used to control snoring. These devices push the lower jaw and tongue forward to keep the airway open.
- Snoring
Mouthguards for snoring work similarly to the sleep apnea one. The protective devices will pull your lower jaw lower to open up the airway.
- The Type you choose
We have several types of mouthguards in 11705 that you can choose from, and they all differ in design.
- Stock mouthguards
Stock mouthguards are the most widely available types and can be found in your local drug store. These mouthguards come in three sizes; small, medium, and large. Although they come in different types, they rarely offer a precise fit and at times can be uncomfortable. They are mostly used by people who play contact sports.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards
These mouthguards are also available in drug stores. While they are available in a one-size-fits-all version, you can customize them to fit your teeth. As the name suggests, these mouthguards involve boiling and biting them. The boiling will soften the material making it easy to fit over your teeth.
- Customized mouthguards
These mouth protectors are designed to fit your specific dental structure. They are recommended for people who suffer from bruxism or sleep apnea. The dentist will take an impression or cast of your teeth and gums to make the mouthguards. They are a bit more expensive than the other types, but the good news is most dental insurance cover the cost.
The type you choose will depend on the purpose, but the custom-made mouthguards are the most recommended because they provide a better fit.
How Can You Care for Your Mouthguards?
Protecting your mouth protectors is important to preserving them and lengthening their lifespan.
- Clean your teeth and floss daily before wearing the mouthguards.
- Use lukewarm or cool water to rinse your mouth protectors before putting them on and after taking them out. Do not use hot water, which can alter the shape of the mouthguards.
- Examine your mouthguards daily to check for holes and other signs of damage. If they are worn out, you may need another pair.
- Carry your mouth protector when visiting the dentist to make sure it fits properly.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are looking for Mouthguards neat Bayport, NY, visit Bayport Dental Care for more information on the types.