What Are Mouthguards and Why Would You Need One?

At Kraklow Family Dentistry, we believe in prevention rather than treating dental injuries after they occur. We’re proud to offer custom mouthguards to lower the risk of damage to your teeth and gums during sleep or when playing contact sports. We’re all about safeguarding your oral health to ensure you maintain a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles!

What Are Mouthguards?

Mouthguards are dental devices designed to protect your teeth, tongue, gums, and cheeks from trauma caused by sports-related injuries or by nighttime teeth grinding, a condition called bruxism. The mouthguards worn during sleep are called night guards, while those worn when you play sports are called sports mouthguards.

What Are the Types of Mouthguards?

Here’s a look at the types of mouthguards available to you:

• Stock Mouthguards: Stock mouthguards are inexpensive and ready-to-wear mouth protectors you can purchase over-the-counter at drugstores or sporting goods stores. However, they are often bulky and don’t provide an ideal fit, leaving you with little to no protection.
• Boil and Bite Mouthguards: You’ll first place these mouthguards in hot water to soften the material, then shape it to your teeth using gentle pressure. Boil and bite mouthguards offer a better fit than their stock counterparts, but they are still quite bulky and don’t offer the best protection.
• Custom Mouthguards: Custom-fitted mouthguards are made for you at your dentist’s office from impressions of your teeth. They provide the best fit, comfort, and protection.

Night Guards: An Overview

Grinding and clenching your teeth, a condition known as bruxism can leave you with complications, including morning headaches, jaw pain, worn and sensitive teeth, and tooth fracture. Many people are not aware of their nighttime teeth grinding until alerted by others or if tell-tale signs of bruxism are identified during regular dental exams.

Nightguards cover the teeth with their chewing surfaces. They are made of a strong material that absorbs the grinding and clenching forces, preventing damage to your teeth and jaws.

Sports Mouthguards: An Overview

With athletes about 60 times more likely to suffer harm to their teeth when not wearing sports mouthguards, you should consider these protective oral appliances a necessary piece of athletic equipment. They are essential for anyone engaged in any contact sports or activities that increase the risk of accidental blows to the face. 

Sports mouthguards cover the tooth surfaces and often extend over the gums to provide maximum protection. They are created from a soft, thick material that absorbs high-intensity shocks, reducing the risk of injuries to the teeth, lips, and gums. Sports mouthguards also prevent the accidental biting of the tongue or soft tissues.

Nightguards and Sports Mouthguards Near Me

Contact Kraklow Family Dentistry in Waukesha, WI, to learn more about safeguarding your smile with the help of a custom night guard or sports mouthguard. Dr. Kraklow and her team are committed to maintaining long-term healthy smiles. Call 262-547-4433 and schedule your appointment or request one online today!