If you are anything like we are, you like to play hard. That’s why we offer sports mouthguards. Mouth guards are one of the general dentistry services we provide to the public in Tuckahoe, New York. Mouth guards protect smiles from all kinds of injuries – because no matter how good you are at your chosen game, accidents happen!
We also really encourage parents to choose dentist-made mouthguards for their children. Over-the-counter, boil-and-bite mouth guards don’t fit as well or protect as thoroughly as a mouth guard created by your dentist from dental impressions. Custom mouthguards are required for participation in many sports to protect teeth against injury.
Mouthguards Protect Your Teeth
Mouthguards act as a protective barrier between your teeth and the impact of physical activities. Whether you’re playing contact sports or engaging in recreational activities like biking or skateboarding, accidents can happen unexpectedly. A well-fitted mouthguard absorbs and disperses the force of impact. As a result, it can reduce the likelihood of broken teeth, jaw injuries, and soft tissue damage.
Why Choose Our Mouthguards?
Our custom mouthguards are specifically tailored to fit your child’s mouth. It helps provide superior protection compared to over-the-counter options. Unlike boil-and-bite mouthguards, our custom mouthguards offer optimal comfort and protection. This helps reduce the risk of dental injuries during sports and other recreational activities.
Kids suffer thousands of injuries each year participating in school sports, biking or while skateboarding or during other activities. Therefore, we highly recommend custom mouthguards for children participating in sports and other physical activities.
“Injuries to the face from participating in a sport or other recreational activity can harm your child’s teeth, lips, cheeks and tongue, but a properly fitted mouth guard can help protect your child’s smile,” says Edmond Hewlett, D.D.S., an ADA consumer advisor and associate professor at UCLA’s School of Dentistry. A properly fitted mouthguard can greatly reduce the risk of such injuries. As a result, we can help ensure your child’s smile remains safe and intact.
Professional Vs. Over-the-Counter Mouthguards
One of the most important benefits of a professional mouthguard is the custom fit. Over-the-counter options come in generic sizes, such as “one-size-fits-all” or “boil-and-bite,” but they rarely match the unique shape of your teeth and bite.
This poor fit can make the guard uncomfortable, cause it to shift during use, or even fail to provide full protection. A professional mouthguard, on the other hand, is created using impressions of your teeth. This custom design ensures a snug, secure fit that feels natural in your mouth. As a result, patients are more likely to wear it consistently and comfortably.
Protection is another key difference. Professional mouthguards absorb and distribute impact more effectively than over-the-counter models. This makes them especially valuable for athletes in contact sports, as they significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries, jaw fractures, and concussions.
For patients who suffer from bruxism, or teeth grinding, professional nightguards are designed to withstand heavy pressure and prevent tooth wear, fractures, and jaw pain. Store-bought versions often wear down quickly and may not provide sufficient protection against long-term damage.
Durability is another significant advantage of professional mouthguards. Because they are made from high-quality materials, they last longer than over-the-counter guards. While store-bought guards often need frequent replacement, professional versions provide reliable protection for years with proper care. In the long run, this makes them a smarter financial choice, as you avoid constantly buying new replacements.
Professional mouthguards also improve breathing and speech compared to bulky store-bought models. The precise fit allows patients to talk and breathe naturally, which is especially important for athletes during competition. Children and teens also benefit from the security and comfort of a professional fit, making it easier to build healthy protective habits early in life.
Another important factor is the dentist’s ability to customize the mouthguard to your specific needs. Whether you need extra thickness for high-impact sports, a nightguard to relieve teeth grinding, or adjustments to accommodate braces, professional guards can be tailored to your situation. This level of personalization is not possible with mass-produced options.
Keeping Your Mouthguard Clean
To help your mouthguard last longer and stay effective, it is crucial to follow a proper maintenance routine. Here are some tips for keeping your mouthguard clean:
- After each use, rinse your mouthguard with water to remove any saliva or debris.
- Use a toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste to gently brush your mouthguard. Avoid using hot water, as it can distort the shape of the mouthguard.
- Store your mouthguard in a clean, ventilated container when not in use. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or high temperatures, as this can cause warping.
- Visit your dentist regularly to ensure your mouthguard remains in good condition and continues to provide protection.
Custom Mouthguard FAQs
Custom mouthguards are the best way to protect your smile. Learn more by reading the answers to the following commonly asked questions.
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
With proper care, a custom mouthguard can last several years. However, athletes and children may need replacements more frequently due to regular wear or growth. Nightguards used for grinding may wear out faster if the bruxism is severe. Your dentist will monitor its condition and recommend replacement when necessary.
Is it comfortable to wear a custom mouthguard?
Because it’s molded to fit your teeth precisely, a custom mouthguard is usually much more comfortable than generic options. It won’t feel too bulky or loose in the mouth, and many people can speak and breathe normally while wearing one. The comfort often encourages more consistent use.
Can I wear a custom mouthguard with braces?
Yes, custom mouthguards can fit over braces or other dental appliances. They offer essential protection during sports and help prevent lip, cheek, and gum injuries. Your dentist will design the mouthguard to accommodate your braces without interfering with orthodontic treatment. As your teeth shift, a new guard may be needed.
How do I know if my mouthguard fits properly?
A properly fitting mouthguard should feel snug but not tight and stay in place without biting down. It shouldn’t cause pain, gagging, or difficulty breathing or speaking. If you notice discomfort or shifting, visit our office for an adjustment. A poor fit can reduce protection and make it less likely you’ll wear it consistently.
Does insurance cover custom mouthguards?
Some dental insurance plans may partially cover the cost of a custom mouthguard, especially if it’s medically necessary for conditions like bruxism. Coverage for sports mouthguards is less common, but it’s worth checking with your provider.
What are the risks of not using a mouthguard during sports?
Not wearing a mouthguard during sports can lead to broken or knocked-out teeth, soft tissue injuries, or jaw fractures. It also increases the risk of concussions in contact sports. A properly fitted mouthguard helps absorb and distribute impact forces, reducing the likelihood of serious oral injuries. Prevention is key to avoiding costly and painful dental emergencies.
From Tuckahoe to Eastchester, Yonkers to New Rochelle, Crestwood Dental serves all Westchester County neighborhoods. When you are ready, give us a call today.