Do you or your child require a sports mouthguard? Custom sports mouthguards are made of durable plastic that is molded to fit the exact shape and contour of your teeth. These oral appliances protect your teeth from tooth grinding, mouth trauma from hits to the face, and more.
Protect you or your child’s teeth with the most effective mouthguards possible. Only a dental professional can offer superior comfort and support in a mouthguard. Not all mouthguards are created equal.
Uncomfortable or ill-fitting mouthguards provide inadequate protection and in many cases aren’t worn properly which means that they can’t be effective. Our dentists in Media, PA Dr. Gregory Hillyard and Dr. Alexandra Monroe provide this general dental treatment for patients who need protection during sports.
Why Do You Need a Sports Mouthguard?
Mouthguards are commonly worn during physical activity to protect the teeth from trauma. Sports like boxing, football, and basketball often require the participant to wear a mouthguard. The mouthguard not only protects the teeth from forceful blows, but also the soft tissues such as the tongue, lip, or cheek lining. They are susceptible to be bitten during certain maneuvers.
Custom sports mouthguards are not a substitute for night guards or other corrective oral appliances. They should only be worn during physical play and short periods of time. Mouthguards should be taken to the dentist at least once a year for a quick inspection. This will ensure they stay effective for years to come.
Receiving a Sports Mouthguard
Your dentist will help you decide if a mouthguard is right for you. First, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth. This will be used to create a custom fit guard that fits perfectly and is more comfortable than store-bought options. You may be able to choose from a variety of colors and styles. Most mouthguards last between 3 to 10 years. For younger patients, mouthguards may need to be replaced more frequently to accommodate the growth of new teeth.
FAQs
Can a dentist fit a mouthguard?
Yes, a dentist can fit a mouthguard. A dentist can take an impression of your teeth and create a custom-made mouthguard.
Does dental insurance cover mouthguards?
Most insurance companies will not cover the cost of mouthguards. They consider mouthguards a preventive measure, rather than a therapeutic measure.
Some insurance companies may offer a discount for custom-fit mouthguards, but the majority of the cost will likely be the patient’s responsibility of the individual.
Can you wear Invisalign instead of a mouthguard?
No, you should not. Your dentist will not recommend Invisalign in place of a mouthguard. While it is possible to wear them in a way that protects your teeth, the manufacturer would not recommend it, and they would consider it an “off-label” use. A proper mouthguard will provide more protection for your teeth than Invisalign.
How long do custom mouthguards last?
Most custom mouthguards last between 3 to 5 years. However, the life span of custom mouthguards can vary, depending on how often the patient uses them and how well the patient took care of them.
Why do my teeth hurt after wearing a mouthguard?
There are a few reasons why your teeth might hurt after wearing a mouthguard. One possibility is that the mouthguard is not fitting properly and is therefore pushing against your teeth and gums uncomfortably. Another possibility is that you are experiencing sensitivity to the plastic or rubber material used in the construction of the mouthguard. Finally, it’s also possible that you are experiencing pain as a result of pressure on your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. If you are experiencing pain after wearing your mouthguard, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist to determine the cause and find a solution.
Why does my child need a custom-fitted mouthguard?
A custom-fitted mouthguard is necessary for a child because it will properly fit their teeth and gums, providing maximum protection. A standard-sized mouthguard can be too big or too small, which will not offer adequate protection. A custom-fitted mouthguard will help prevent dental injuries, such as a broken tooth or jaw, and also help protect the child’s teeth from sports-related injuries.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
Call 610.756.0649 to schedule an appointment with our dentists. Your comfort is imperative to our team. Feel free to ask us any questions you may have about the mouthguard process during your next dental care visit.