Do you clench and grind your teeth? Is it time to get a new mouthguard to wear during contact sports? We provide custom mouthguard treatment in Quakertown, PA. Dr. Kelly Halle-Brown provides sports mouthguards and nightguards for patients who play contact sports or need to protect their teeth due to nightly teeth clenching and grinding. Wearing a custom mouthguard can prevent future dental problems, including chipped, fractured, worn, and lost permanent teeth.
Custom Mouthguard in Quakertown, PA
Dr. Halle-Brown can create custom sports mouthguards and nightguards for patients using dental impressions.
Sports Mouthguards
Wearing a sports mouthguard during contact sports like hockey, lacrosse, and football can prevent injuries. There are many other benefits of sports mouthguards. Custom-made sports mouthguards:
- Protect the lower jaw
- Reduce the risk of losing teeth
- Minimize tooth damage
- Reduce damage to braces and orthodontic appliances
- Prevent bruising or injury to the soft tissues of the smile
Patients who do not wear custom mouthguards during sports may be distracted by their ill-fitting mouthguards. Some patients may feel the need to clench their teeth to keep their mouthguards in place. With custom mouthguards, patients can focus on the game without distractions.
Nightguards
Do you wake up with jaw pain? Does your jaw pop or click when you eat hard or crunchy foods? Chances are, you have a TMJ disorder. Many patients with TMJ disorders benefit from wearing a nightguard, especially if they experience problems like headaches, jaw pain, tooth wear, and teeth clenching and grinding.
Custom nightguards:
- Prevent tooth wear
- Help relax the jaw
- Prevent teeth clenching and grinding
Because nightguards are typically made of hard acrylic, patients are not encouraged to chew on them. A custom nightguard covers the upper or lower tooth arch, preventing teeth from grinding. Wearing a nightguard also prevents tooth wear and pain from bruxism and alleviates pressure from the TMJ.
Custom Mouthguard FAQs
A custom mouthguard from the dentist provides superior protection for your teeth. Our patients frequently ask the following questions.
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
With proper care, a custom mouthguard can last several years. However, it’s a good idea to bring it to your dental check-ups so Dr. Halle-Brown can check for signs of wear. If your mouth changes—like after dental work or growth during the teen years—you may need a new one. Children and teens often need replacements more often than adults.
Can I wear a custom mouthguard with braces?
A custom mouthguard can fit over braces and protect your teeth and orthodontic hardware. Athletes with braces need to wear them, since a hit to the face can damage both teeth and braces. We will make sure the mouthguard fits safely and adequately. As your teeth move, you may need updates to the fit.
How do I know if my mouthguard fits properly?
A properly fitting mouthguard should stay in place without biting down to hold it. It should feel snug but comfortable and not make it hard to breathe or talk. If it causes pain, feels too tight, or falls out easily, see us for an adjustment. You should be able to wear it during an activity or sleep without trouble.
Will a mouthguard affect my breathing or speaking?
A properly fitted custom mouthguard should not affect your breathing and will only slightly impact your speech. Most people get used to speaking with one very quickly. In contrast, bulky store-bought guards can make breathing and talking harder. The snug fit of a custom guard makes it easier to perform while wearing it.
Will insurance cover a custom mouthguard?
Some dental insurance plans cover part or all of the cost of a custom mouthguard, especially for treating teeth grinding. Coverage varies, so it’s best to check with your provider. Mouthguards for sports are sometimes not covered. Even if not covered, many patients find the cost worth it for the protection.
Will a custom mouthguard protect against concussions?
While a mouthguard helps reduce injuries to the teeth and jaw, it may offer limited protection against concussions by absorbing shock. However, no mouthguard can fully prevent a concussion. Helmets and other safety gear are also important. Still, a custom mouthguard is a smart part of your safety equipment.
Get a Custom Mouthguard Today
Does your child need a mouthguard for the upcoming sports season? Do you need a bruxism nightguard? Contact Upper Bucks Dental Arts today at (215) 876-0543. You can also request a dental appointment with Dr. Halle-Brown online.