Mouth Guards and Splints
Mouth Guards and Splints: Protecting Your Smile
Your smile is one of your most valuable assets, and protecting it should be a top priority. Whether you participate in sports activities or struggle with teeth grinding, mouth guards and splints can play a crucial role in safeguarding your teeth and overall oral health.
Mouth Guards for Sports:
Participating in sports exposes your teeth to potential risks of injury. A custom-fitted mouth guard can provide effective protection by cushioning your teeth and minimizing the risk of dental trauma. From contact sports like football and hockey to non-contact activities like basketball or even biking, wearing a mouth guard can significantly reduce the likelihood of tooth fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries. At Wishart Family Dental, we offer custom-made mouth guards tailored to fit your mouth comfortably and provide optimal protection.
Splints for Teeth Grinding:
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that can lead to various dental problems. Clenching or grinding your teeth during sleep or times of stress can wear down enamel, cause jaw pain, headaches, and even lead to tooth fractures. To alleviate these issues, our skilled dentists may recommend splints or nightguards. These custom-made oral appliances create a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing contact and reducing the negative effects of grinding. Splints help relax your jaw muscles, alleviate pain, and protect your teeth from further damage.
TMJ Splints:
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) can cause jaw pain, clicking sounds, difficulty in opening or closing the mouth, and other uncomfortable symptoms. TMJ splints are designed to stabilize the jaw, promote proper alignment, and provide relief from TMJ-related discomfort. Our experienced team will evaluate your condition and recommend a personalized splinting solution to help manage your TMJ symptoms effectively.
Remember, proper care and maintenance of your mouth guard or splint are essential to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. Regular cleaning, storing them in a protective case, and bringing them to your dental appointments for evaluation and adjustments will help maximize their benefits.
We prioritize your oral health and strive to provide the highest standard of care. If you have any questions about mouth guards, splints, or any other dental concerns, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. Together, we can protect your smile and maintain your dental well-being for years to come.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional dental advice. If you require specific dental guidance, please consult with our knowledgeable team.
FAQs
What is a mouth guard?
A dental mouth guard is a custom-made device that fits over your teeth to protect them from damage caused by grinding or clenching.
Who needs a dental mouth guard?
Dental mouth guards are typically recommended for people who grind their teeth at night or for athletes who participate in contact sports.
What are the benefits of using a dental mouth guard?
A dental mouth guard can help prevent damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw caused by grinding or clenching. It can also reduce your risk of concussion if you participate in contact sports.
How do I get a dental mouth guard?
Your dentist can create a custom-made dental mouth guard for you based on impressions of your teeth. The process typically involves two appointments.
How do I care for my dental mouth guard?
You should rinse your dental mouth guard with water after each use and store it in a protective case. It's also important to clean your dental mouth guard regularly with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
What is a dental splint?
A dental splint is a device that is used to treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw.
How does a dental splint work?
A dental splint is designed to reduce pressure on the TMJ by repositioning the jaw. This can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders.
Who needs a dental splint?
Dental splints are typically recommended for people who experience pain or discomfort in the jaw due to TMJ disorders.
How do I get a dental splint?
Your dentist can create a custom-made dental splint for you based on impressions of your teeth. The process typically involves two appointments.
How do I care for my dental splint?
You should rinse your dental splint with water after each use and store it in a protective case. It's also important to clean your dental splint regularly with a toothbrush and toothpaste.