Why Should I Wear a Mouthguard?

According to the Arizona Dental Association (ADA), a mouth guard protects not only your teeth and gums but also helps avoid jaw fracture and severe injury to the cheeks and tongue (which can often require surgery). Such accidents might result in long-term Dental Emergencies such as a change in speech, continuing discomfort of scars, as well as concern about one's smile and looks. It's simple to understand why mouth guards are worth the money when the American Dental Association reports that oral damage is 60 times more probable without one. 

Even non-athletes may get the benefits of wearing a mouthguard. They can assist patients in avoiding clenching their jaws and grinding their teeth during sleeping. Some people don't even realize they're doing it when they sleep, and they endure the repercussions without recognizing it. Sleeping without a mouthguard can result in dental emergencies such as migraines, temporomandibular joint discomfort, tight or tense muscles around the jaw and temples, and poor sleeping patterns, to name a few. Using a mouthguard can help users avoid Dental Emergencies and improve their sleeping habits, make breathing easier and reduce snoring, and preserve their teeth from harm. All of these advantages are beneficial to long-term dental health.  

Types of Mouthguards

Stock mouthguards, store-bought mouth-formed guards (boil and bite), and custom-fit mouth guards from Dr. Nielsen are the three types of mouthguards available. 

1. Premade Mouthguards

Mouthguards of this type are the most prevalent and can be found at most sports goods stores. Budget-conscious athletes are the least priced form of mouthguard and do not require any dental appointments. Only a few sizes are available, and the mouth must be closed to keep it in place. This mouthguard is less effective than others since it does not fit the patient's mouth. Please let us know if you'd like one. We have some at the office (, and they fit over braces! 

2. Mouth-formed Mouthguards (boil and bite) 

They are self-adapting mouthguards that anyone may use. The mouthguard will soften when placed in hot water. Place it into the patient's mouth once it has cooled down sufficiently. A patient's mouth will be adapted by biting down on it, with some help from the tongue and fingers to guide the device in the right direction. Assisting with the final molding might be provided by a dental expert, if necessary When a patient is wearing braces, this is incredibly beneficial. Additionally, mouthguards made for home usage are commonly available at sports stores. 

3. Custom-made Mouthguards

Most dental and orthodontic facilities provide mouthguards that are custom-made for each patient. Using impressions taken from the patient's mouth, they offer the greatest fit, flexibility, and comfort. As the most expensive and time-consuming alternative, custom-made mouthguards are the most effective in protecting a patient's mouth while engaging in sports. 

Although each of these mouthguards has a different price and comfort level, they all protect from damage. If you decide on a protective mouthguard, it should be comfortable, tear-resistant, and composed of a durable substance, such as silicone. Additionally, it should be simple to clean, comfortable, and have excellent impact energy absorption to decrease transmitted forces in the event of a collision. When using a mouthguard, you should never be unable to breathe. 

Despite the effectiveness of a mouthguard, patients should visit Bell Road Dentistry immediately if their mouth suffers a direct blow while playing sports. Dental emergencies are serious, and you should contact us right away if you are experiencing one! 

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