Sports Mouth Guards in Las Cruces, NM
Dental mouth guards have long been used to protect the teeth, gums and supporting tissues from damage, injury and trauma. There are two types of sports mouth guards – over the counter and custom. While OTC guards are helpful for occasional use, many dental patients require the benefit of a customized dental mouth guard fitted by a dentist to effectively prevent injury.
Caring for your new custom mouth guard is simple.
The American Dental Association recommends keeping protected in a sturdy container in between usage. You should also be careful to clean your mouth guard after use and occasionally soak it in cool, soapy water for thorough sanitation. Custom dental mouth guards are designed for durability, but it is important to check your mouth guard for signs of wear every few months. Mouth guards for children and teens must be replaced frequently to account for growing jaws and changes to the teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a dental mouthguard?
Wearing a sports mouthguard can be beneficial for protecting your teeth from damage. A few examples of times a mouthguard may be helpful are:
- Nighttime wear to prevent damage from teeth grinding and bruxism
- Tooth and lip protection during high-impact sports, such as martial arts
- To serve as a barrier between the lips and oral appliances, such as metal braces
- To protect fragile bridgework
Not wearing a mouthguard when you need one can lead to issues such as TMJ or in the case of sports, damage to your teeth.
What should I expect when my dentist fits me for a mouthguard?
Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth to create a custom mouthguard for you. Your mouthguard will be sent to the laboratory to be created from your impressions.
When your mouthguard is ready, we’ll let you know you can come back to pick it up. Your dentist will then make sure it fits properly and provide care instructions so you can keep your mouthguard in good shape.
Should I follow any special instructions?
Your dentist will give you instructions on wearing your mouthguard and taking care of it before you leave. Your instructions may differ depending on the reason you’re wearing your mouthguard.
If you’re wearing your mouthguard for sports, you’ll only have to wear it during practice and at games or events. For bruxism or sleep issues, you’ll wear your mouthguard every night.
You can clean your mouthguard by brushing it with a soft toothbrush and rinse it thoroughly. Make sure to keep your teeth clean as well, as bacteria can gather from your teeth onto the mouthguard. Store your mouthguard properly when you’re not using it.