Night Guards & Sports Guards
General Dentistry
We believe in providing comprehensive dental care that extends beyond routine check-ups and procedures. An integral part of our preventative dentistry approach includes Night Guards or Sports Guards. These devices can be a beneficial part of your oral health regime, especially if you grind your teeth, clench your jaw, have bite or TMJ issues, or engage in contact sports. Let’s delve into what these guards are, how they can help you, and the process involved in getting them.
What are Night Guards and Sports Guards?
Night guards and sports guards are types of mouth guards specifically designed to protect your teeth and jaw from various types of damage.
Night guards are typically worn during sleep and are designed to protect your teeth from grinding or clenching, a condition also known as bruxism. They help distribute the force across your jaw, reducing the risk of cracked or worn-down teeth, and minimizing strain on your temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Sports guards, on the other hand, are used primarily during physical activities, especially contact sports. They protect your teeth, gums, lips, and jaw from potential injuries, such as fractures, dislocations, or lacerations.
How Night Guards and Sports Guards Can Help
Whether you’re dealing with bruxism, TMJ disorders, or participating in sports activities, wearing a properly fitted guard can have numerous benefits.
Benefits include:
Prevent Damage: By providing a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, night guards prevent the wear and tear caused by grinding or clenching, thereby preventing potential damage to your teeth and jaw.
Relieve Pain: For individuals with TMJ issues, a night guard can help alleviate pain and discomfort by minimizing the pressure on the jaw joint and muscles.
Protect Your Smile: Sports guards offer an effective way to protect your mouth from sudden impacts or accidents during sporting activities, safeguarding your smile against potential injuries.
The Process
Creating a custom-fitted night guard or sports guard at our clinic is a straightforward process.
During your consultation, Dr. Ash will evaluate your needs and determine the best type of guard for you. He will then take an impression of your teeth, which will be used to create a guard that fits your mouth precisely.
This impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom guard is fabricated. Once ready, you will meet with Dr. Ash again to ensure the guard fits properly and is comfortable. He will provide you with instructions on how to wear, clean, and store your guard properly.
