Mouthguards are dental appliances made to fit over the teeth in order to protect them from damage. There are different types of mouthguards, but the most common are sports mouthguards and night guards. Both types of mouthguards can be found over the counter as prefabricated or boil and bite variations, however mouthguards custom fabricated by a dental professional are among the most effective and comfortable.
Did You Know?
Mouthguards can be either hard or soft depending on their purpose. Hard splints are made using heat-cured acrylic resin and are not flexible, while soft splints are made from soft acrylic or vinyl and have some flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a mouthguard?
One reason you may need a mouthguard is if you play certain sports. Sports mouthguards are recommended for any sport that could result in dental injuries, however they are also often required safety equipment for high-contact sports such as hockey, wrestling, or boxing. In most cases, a single mouthguard that fits over one arch is enough, however there are certain cases where a double mouthguard that fits over both arches may be required.
Another reason why you may need a mouthguard is due to certain sleeping problems like sleep apnea or bruxism. Mouthguards used for sleep apnea or bruxism can reposition the jaw to minimize symptoms. Additionally, mouthguards used for bruxism help to protect the teeth from becoming damaged as a result of constant teeth grinding or clenching.
To determine if you need a dental mouthguard and what type of mouthguard is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sanket Upadhyay at Birch Point Dental Clinic today.
What can I expect when being fitted for a mouthguard at Birch Point Dental Clinic?
When being fitted for a mouthguard at Birch Point Dental Clinic, you can expect to have a dental impression taken of your mouth. This dental impression will be used to make a model of your mouth in order to fabricate a custom-fitted mouthguard. Depending on the type of mouthguard being made, they may have slightly different structures. For example, sports mouthguards are made to cover the teeth and gums, while night guards only cover the teeth.
Once your mouthguard has been fabricated, Dr. Sanket Upadhyay will place it in your mouth and make any necessary adjustments. He will then explain how to care for your mouthguard and when to wear it. Since your mouthguard will only be worn part-time, he will also explain how to store it when you are not wearing it.
How do I care for my mouthguard?
Caring for your mouthguard basically consists of keeping it clean and preventing it from becoming damaged or lost. To clean your mouthguard, you will need to rinse it with soapy, lukewarm water after use. Never use hot water since this can cause the shape of your mouthguard to warp. To prevent your mouthguard from being damaged or lost, you will always need to store it in its protective plastic case. Never wrap your mouthguard in a napkin, since this almost always results in it being accidentally thrown away.
Call today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Sanket Upadhyay at Birch Point Dental Clinic. Located in the Bay & Algoma neighborhood, our location allows you to have your teeth looked at while also providing the opportunity to shop local and enjoy spaghetti take out at the famous Italian Cultural Centre across the street.
