If you are interested in playing contact sports, a mouthguard is an essential oral appliance for protecting your dental health. Contact sports like football, baseball, wrestling, or gymnastics may require the use of a mouthguard to participate in the first place. It’s a good idea to invest in a custom mouthguard that is designed specifically for your smile.
At Baltimore Dental Co., Dr. Leah Romay is happy to provide custom mouthguards to interested patients. Custom mouthguards are not only great for protecting your dental structures during sports games but also in treating complex dental concerns like teeth grinding habits or TMJ disorders.
Custom Mouthguards in Glyndon, MD
Compared to a storebought mouthguard, custom mouthguards provided by your general dentist can guarantee a much more comfortable fit and secure protection. Designed specifically for your smile, you can play confidently knowing that your mouthguard will not slip around or fall out while in use.
Dr. Romay takes dental impressions of your teeth to ensure your mouthguard fits all angles of your smile. She is happy to answer any questions about this oral appliance that you might have. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about custom mouthguards:
How can mouthguards help with teeth grinding?
For patients who suffer from teeth grinding in their sleep, we often recommend a custom nightguard. A custom nightguard is very similar to a custom mouthguard in that it protects your teeth as you sleep.
The plastic material fits snugly over your dental structures. Even if you are able to grind your teeth together in your sleep, the nightguard will protect your dental structures from unwanted dental damage.
How can mouthguards help with TMJ disorders?
Custom nightguards can help treat TMJ disorders or chronic jaw pain. Known as oral appliance therapy, the nightguard is made to hold your jawbone in a healthier resting position as you sleep, allowing you to wake up with a fully rested and restored jaw.
How long do custom mouthguards last?
It depends on the type of mouthguard, its usage, and the patient’s care for its maintenance. A high-quality custom mouthguard can last from 3 to 5 years on average. However, your mouthguard can wear out faster if you wear it very frequently. Cleaning them with abrasive substances can also reduce their lifetime.
Why do dentists recommend custom mouthguards?
Custom mouthguards help protect your teeth and gums in different situations, such as high-impact sports, nocturnal teeth grinding, or activities with high risks of falling. Since all of these activities have a high risk of injuries in the mouth, it is essential to add extra protection to the teeth. Furthermore, custom mouthguards work better and last longer than over-the-counter alternatives.
Do dentists make custom mouthguards?
Yes. If you require a mouthguard, your dentist can take an impression of your mouth and make an individualized custom mouthguard. This mouthguard will fit your teeth and gums perfectly. Moreover, this is why they are very comfortable and durable.
How do I get a fitted mouthguard?
During your dental appointment at the office, the dentist will take an impression of your mouth, then they will make the mouthguard with a special design according to your needs. In the next appointment, the dentist will ask you to try the mouthguard and make any adjustments if necessary.
How long do custom mouthguards last?
On average, custom mouthguards last about 5 years, however, depending on how you care for your appliance, and how often you wear it we may recommend replacing it after 1 year. This will ensure that your mouth is protected, and that your guard is up to date with the newest technology.
What are the three types of mouthguards?
The three main types of mouthguards on the market today are stock, boil-and-bite, and custom. Custom mouth guards are fitted to each individual’s mouth, and promote athletes ability to speak and breathe comfortably during play.
Schedule An Appointment
If you are in need of a custom mouthguard for any reason, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Leah Romay. She is happy to consult with you on all of your dental health concerns and come up with a treatment plan to address them accordingly.