Dechter & Moy Dentistry offers custom sports mouthguards for children and adults. Prevent dental injuries and tooth loss while playing contact sports with a custom mouthguard. As part of our general dentistry services, we provide custom mouthguards to help protect your teeth and gums during physical activities. They are the best way to protect your teeth, gums, and oral appliances, especially for those who wear braces.
You or your child can wear a mouthguard during any activity that could result in injury to the face or mouth. Dr. Dechter and Dr. Moy will recommend using a custom sports mouthguard for superior protection. Our mouthguards are more comfortable to wear than ever before. Protecting your teeth and gums is easier than ever with a custom mouthguard from Dechter & Moy Dentistry in Silver Spring, MD.
Protective Mouthguards
We will recommend different types of custom mouth guards to prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching. These are common signs of a bite disorder. Other symptoms include discomfort and pain around the jaw, neck, and head area.
We can design a custom fit mouthguard for teeth grinding issues. A protective guard will reposition the jaw naturally to reduce muscle tension. Dentists call this type of mouthguard a night guard or oral sleep appliance.
Store-bought Mouthguards Are Not as Effective
Only your dentist can create a truly comfortable mouthguard with a custom fit. The boil and bite ones in retail stores can be a little cheaper. However, they often come in standard sizes that are tough to adjust to. Your mouth and jaws are not a standard size, so we always recommend consulting with your dentist before buying in a retail store.
To keep a store-bought mouthguard in your mouth, you often have to keep your jaw clenched. If you’re playing sports, this can make it impossible to communicate with your team or take a quick water break. You have to keep taking your mouthguard in and out of your mouth to do these simple actions. Custom fit mouthguards fit snugly and will stay on without you having to clench your teeth.
Clenching your teeth can lead to future oral health problems as well. Teeth clenching is one of the precursors to TMJ disorders. The jaw joint becomes inflamed or misaligned, causing pain and problems using your jaw.
Your jaw may pop and click when you’re trying to open your mouth or chew as well. You may begin to struggle to open and close your mouth.
Night Guards Vs. Mouthguards
It can be tempting to use your custom guard to perform both tasks. To protect your teeth from sports trauma during the day and teeth grinding by night. However, these are two different guards. They consist of different materials that don’t handle the pressures of these other problems.
Night guards consist of a thinner and harder material. They don’t need to absorb the impact of trauma, but rather keep the teeth from grinding together. Mouthguards are softer and bulkier because they will absorb these impacts. Using one for both functions can not only damage the guard, but your teeth as well.
The Custom Mouthguard Process
The process to get a custom mouthguard usually takes two visits, and begins with an initial consultation. On your first visit, our dentist in Silver Spring, MD, will examine the current state of your teeth for issues. We will make recommendations to fix issues before we create a mouthguard.
Then, we will take dental impressions of your teeth and bite pattern. These will ensure that your new protective appliance will fit over the teeth snugly and securely.
We will send the impressions to a dental lab to fabricate the final product. On the second visit, we will give you your new mouthguard. We will test it out and adjust accordingly. It should fit perfectly without the need to bite down hard to hold it in place.
A major benefit of a custom-made mouthguard is that it will not require clenching or biting down to keep it in place. This will also help improve performance on the field. A custom mouthguard will allow you to focus your energy on the activity and reduce tension in jaw muscles.
Mouthguard FAQs
We have answers to some of the most frequently asked questions our patients have about custom mouthguards.
Do I need a night guard?
A thorough evaluation of your dental health will be a necessary part of the overall treatment. If you suffer from sleep apnea, teeth grinding, or other bite-related disorders, we may recommend a night guard. We may also suggest repairing your worn down or damaged teeth for the best long-term result. This will fully stabilize your oral health.
How long does it take to get a custom mouthguard?
After taking a mold of your mouth, it takes approximately two weeks to create a custom mouthguard. Most dentists send impressions to a laboratory to create the mouthguard. When it is ready, the dental lab sends it back to the dentist for placement.
Can a custom night guard shift your teeth?
Custom-fit mouthguards and night guards may feel tight or snug, but they are not strong enough to shift the alignment of your teeth. Our custom night guards will not correct crooked teeth or cause malocclusion issues.
Can you wear a mouthguard all day?
You can wear a mouthguard whenever you want. Many patients who grind their teeth throughout the day have clear, custom-fitted mouthguards. These guards provide a barrier between their teeth so they will not damage them from grinding.
How often should I replace my mouthguard?
You should replace your mouthguard every 7 to 12 months, especially if you use it regularly. Over time, mouthguards can wear down, become less effective, and accumulate bacteria. If you notice signs of wear, like cracks or thinning, or if it no longer fits properly, it’s time for a new one. Regular replacement ensures you get the best protection for your teeth.
Can you wear a mouthguard with braces?
You can wear a mouthguard with braces. In fact, it’s highly recommended, especially during sports or activities where your mouth could get hit. Specially designed orthodontic mouthguards can fit over your braces and protect both your teeth and braces. Your dentist or orthodontist can help you choose the right mouthguard for the best fit and comfort.
Request a Dental Exam Today!
Dechter & Moy Dentistry and our dental care team are your dental sports partners. Get a custom sports mouth guard to protect your teeth from damage in the best possible way.
Call us at (301) 508-9755 to set up an appointment, or request an appointment online today. We serve all Montgomery County and surrounding communities.