Whether you’re an athlete or the parent of one, protecting your teeth and mouth during sports is crucial. Injuries to the teeth, gums, and jaw can have long-lasting effects, leading to pain, costly treatments, and even permanent damage. Custom sports mouthguards are a smart investment for anyone involved in contact sports. At Vista Ridge Family Dentistry, we provide custom mouthguard treatment in our Cedar Park, TX, dental office. We provide general treatments like custom-fit mouthguards that offer the best possible protection, comfort, and durability.
Benefits of a Custom Sports Mouthguard
Store-bought mouthguards may seem convenient. However, they don’t provide a custom fit. Boil-and-bite mouthguards may seem custom, but they use pre-formed material that only offers a partial custom fit.
When you visit our dentist office for an athletic mouthguard, we will ensure it fits properly. We can also provide a sports mouthguard if you wear braces.
Our custom mouthguards offer these benefits:
- Better Fit: Unlike store-bought mouthguards, custom ones are made for your teeth and mouth. This means they fit better, stay in place, and are more comfortable to wear during sports. You don’t have to clench your teeth to keep the guard in place.
- Improved Protection: A custom mouthguard provides superior protection for your teeth, gums, and jaw. Because it fits your mouth perfectly, it can better absorb and distribute the impact from a hit or fall. It reduces the risk of broken teeth, cut lips, or other injuries. A mouthguard can also prevent cuts to the soft mouth tissues from metal braces.
- Easier to Breathe and Talk: Since custom mouthguards fit snugly, they make it easier to breathe and talk while playing sports. You won’t have to worry about the mouthguard slipping out of place, which is common with generic ones. You can also communicate with teammates more clearly.
- Durability: Custom mouthguards are made from high-quality materials that last longer than standard ones you might buy in a store. This means they can withstand more wear and tear. It provides long-lasting protection.
How to Get a Custom Mouthguard in Cedar Park, TX
Getting a custom sports mouthguard at our Cedar Park dental office is a simple process. Here’s what you can expect:
Consultation and Examination
Your journey to a custom sports mouthguard begins with a consultation at our dental office. During this visit, we’ll examine your teeth and gums to ensure they’re healthy and ready for a mouthguard. If any dental issues are present, such as cavities or gum disease, we’ll address those first to ensure your mouth is in the best condition possible.
Dental Impressions
Once your mouth is ready, we’ll take impressions of your teeth. This involves using a digital scanner to create a precise mold of your teeth. The impression captures every detail of your teeth’s shape and structure, which is essential for creating a mouthguard that fits perfectly.
Creating Your Custom Mouthguard
The impressions are sent to a dental lab, where skilled technicians will craft your custom sports mouthguard. They’ll use high-quality materials to create a mouthguard that’s durable, comfortable, and tailored to your exact specifications. This process typically takes a few weeks.
Fitting and Adjustments
Once your custom mouthguard is ready, you’ll return to our office for a fitting. We’ll make sure the mouthguard fits comfortably and securely in your mouth. If you need any adjustments, we’ll take care of them right away to ensure the best fit. You’ll leave our office with a mouthguard that’s ready to protect your smile during sports.
How to Care For Your Mouthguard
To keep your custom sports mouthguard in top condition, you should care for it properly. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your mouthguard:
- Clean it Regularly: After each use, rinse your mouthguard with cool water. Then, gently brush it with clear soap and a soft toothbrush. This helps remove debris and bacteria that can build on it during use.
- Store it Properly: Store your mouthguard in a protective case when not in use. This keeps it clean and prevents it from getting damaged or lost. Avoid exposing your mouthguard to heat, which can cause it to warp or lose shape.
- Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your mouthguard for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, tears, or thinning areas. If you notice any damage, contact our dental office so we can make a replacement. We want your mouthguard to fit securely over your top teeth.
If you lose your mouthguard or if it does not fit properly over time, contact our office. We often suggest that patients replace their mouthguard every season or when it loses its shape.
Can You Use Sports Mouthguard For TMJ Disorders?
If you have a TMJ disorder, we will recommend a mouthguard-like nightguard to protect your teeth. However, you should not use a sports mouthguard for TMD.
Sports mouthguards are designed to protect your teeth during physical activities. They are usually thicker and bulkier. Athletic mouthguards only cover the upper teeth and do not cover the molars. While they can provide some protection for your jaw, they aren’t specifically made to treat TMJ problems.
For TMJ disorders, we recommend a nightguard or a splint that is custom-made by our dentist. These devices are designed to fit your teeth perfectly and help reduce the strain on your jaw muscles and joints.
Unlike sports mouthguards, nightguards use harder acrylic. These nightguards can cover the upper or lower teeth. They can help with symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, and teeth grinding, which are common in people with TMJ disorders.
If you have TMJ symptoms, talk to our dentist. We can recommend the best mouthguard and other treatments for your condition.
Protect Your Smile
Do you need to replace your child’s athletic mouthguard? Call Vista Ridge Family Dentistry in Cedar Park, TX, for a custom mouthguard at 512-866-9654. You may also schedule an appointment with us on our website.
Let us know if you have questions about getting a mouthguard. We will be happy to help.