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Protecting your teeth from injury or damage is an important aspect of maintaining good oral health. Everyday activities, such as participating in sports, performing physical work, or grinding your teeth at night, can place stress on the teeth and jaw. Over time, this stress can lead to enamel wear, cracked teeth, or discomfort in the jaw joints. A custom-made mouthguard offers a reliable way to protect your smile and reduce the risk of oral injury while providing comfort and support tailored to your needs.
At Alpha Dental Group, we provide custom mouthguards for a range of purposes, including sports protection and management of teeth grinding. Each mouthguard is designed to fit precisely, ensuring maximum effectiveness and comfort for the wearer.
A mouthguard is a removable dental appliance that sits over the teeth to protect them from physical trauma or excessive wear. Custom mouthguards differ from standard “boil and bite” versions sold in stores because they are created from an exact impression or digital scan of your teeth. This means they fit securely, remain comfortable during use, and provide superior protection against impact or grinding.
Custom mouthguards are suitable for both children and adults. They can be used for everyday sports, high-impact activities, or at night for individuals who grind or clench their teeth. By offering a tailored fit, these mouthguards can help reduce the likelihood of dental injuries and alleviate discomfort caused by bruxism.
Contact sports such as rugby, football, hockey, and martial arts carry a risk of dental trauma. Even non-contact sports like gymnastics or cycling can lead to accidental impacts on the mouth. A well-fitted custom sports mouthguard cushions the teeth, jaws, and soft tissues, reducing the chance of broken teeth, chipped enamel, or injuries to the lips and cheeks.
Mouthguards also help distribute the forces of impact more evenly, which can reduce the severity of jaw injuries. For young athletes, custom mouthguards can play a key role in protecting developing teeth and supporting overall dental health.
Teeth grinding, medically referred to as bruxism, often occurs during sleep and can lead to enamel wear, fractures, jaw discomfort, and headaches. A custom night guard provides a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, helping to prevent further damage and reduce pressure on the jaw joints. By wearing a night guard, patients can preserve the natural tooth structure and minimise discomfort caused by clenching or grinding.
Custom mouthguards are designed to fit precisely, making them more comfortable to wear than generic, over-the-counter options. A precise fit ensures the guard remains stable in the mouth during use, whether while playing sports or sleeping, and reduces irritation to the gums and soft tissues. The custom fit also improves breathing and speech, making it easier to wear the guard for extended periods.
Custom mouthguards can also be designed for patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, individuals with sensitive teeth, or those requiring additional protection due to medical conditions. These guards can accommodate braces, aligners, or other dental appliances.
The process begins with a thorough assessment of your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. Your dentist will discuss your specific needs, whether for sports, grinding, or other protection, and determine the type of mouthguard most appropriate.
A detailed impression or digital scan of your teeth is taken to ensure a precise fit. This step is critical for creating a mouthguard that is both comfortable and effective.
The mouthguard is custom-made in a dental laboratory according to the impressions or digital scan. Using high-quality materials, the lab crafts a durable and accurate device designed to fit securely and provide optimal protection.
Once the mouthguard is ready, it is fitted in your mouth. The dentist will check for comfort, stability, and proper alignment. Adjustments are made as needed to ensure the mouthguard is secure and easy to wear.
Patients are advised to return for periodic check-ups to ensure the mouthguard remains in good condition and continues to fit correctly, especially for children or those with ongoing orthodontic treatment.
To maintain the hygiene and effectiveness of your mouthguard, follow these care tips:
Proper care ensures the mouthguard provides ongoing protection and prolongs its lifespan, often lasting several years depending on usage.
You may benefit from a custom mouthguard if you:
Custom mouthguards provide a practical and reliable way to protect teeth from injury and wear. Whether for athletic activities or managing teeth grinding, a well-fitted mouthguard helps preserve oral health, prevents damage, and supports overall comfort. They are tailored to each individual, providing both safety and ease of use.
If you believe a custom mouthguard could benefit you, arranging a consultation at Alpha Dental Group is the first step. Our dental team will assess your needs, recommend the appropriate type of mouthguard, and ensure a precise fit for optimal protection. Protect your smile and maintain oral health with a mouthguard designed specifically for you.
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