Maintaining good oral health is essential, especially for those who are active in sports or struggle with teeth grinding. Sports guards and night guards are effective dental mouth guards that provide vital protection against injuries and damage to your teeth and gums.
What Are Mouth Guards?
Dental mouth guards are protective coverings designed to shield your teeth from damage caused by grinding, clenching, or athletic injuries. These versatile tools are recommended for individuals of all ages, including children and adults. At Kearny Family Dentists, we specialize in providing custom-fit mouth guards tailored to meet your specific needs, ensuring both comfort and efficacy.
Sports Guards: Protecting Athletes on the Field
Sports guards are specifically designed to prevent mouth injuries for athletes participating in various sports. These mouth guards absorb and dissipate the force of impacts during collisions or falls, helping to protect your teeth and soft gums.
- Why Wear a Sports Guard? Athletes in contact sports like football and hockey are often advised to wear sports guards, but they are equally beneficial for those involved in non-contact sports such as gymnastics and skating. Even seemingly low-risk activities can lead to serious mouth injuries; a sudden fall or collision can easily result in damage to the teeth or soft tissues in the mouth. Wearing a sports guard can significantly reduce the risk of such injuries and provide peace of mind while you focus on your performance.
- Custom vs. Store-Bought: While off-the-shelf mouth guards from sporting goods stores offer some level of protection, a custom-fitted sports guard provides the best defense. Generic mouth guards can be uncomfortable and may not fit properly, potentially compromising their protective qualities. At Kearny Family Dentists, we take precise impressions of your teeth to create a mouth guard tailored to your unique dental structure, ensuring maximum comfort and protection during sports and recreational activities.
Night Guards: Safeguarding Against Teeth Grinding
Night guards are designed for individuals who clench or grind their teeth while sleeping, a condition known as bruxism. This habit can lead to a range of dental issues, including:
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Flattened teeth
- Increased temperature sensitivity
- Severe damage to dentures
- Receding gums
- Headaches and jaw pain upon waking
- How Night Guards Help: Wearing a night guard can prevent your teeth from coming into contact during the night, drastically reducing the risk of damage. Additionally, night guards can help alleviate tension in the jaw muscles, reducing the likelihood of waking up with discomfort or pain. We can assess your grinding patterns through a thorough evaluation and create a custom-fitted night guard that fits comfortably without being overly bulky, unlike many generic options available in stores.
TMJ Mouth Guards: Relief for Jaw Discomfort
Teeth grinding and clenching can also be symptoms of TMJ disorder, which affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. This condition can lead to chronic pain, discomfort, and even difficulties in jaw movement. Specially-fitted TMJ mouth guards, such as splints or bite plates, can be an integral part of a comprehensive TMJ treatment plan. These guards help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with TMJ-related teeth grinding, providing a more restful sleep and improved quality of life.
Take the Next Step for Your Oral Health
Protecting your teeth is crucial, whether you’re an athlete or someone who grinds their teeth at night. If you want to learn more about how sports guards, night guards, or TMJ guards can help safeguard your smile, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Contact us or book an appointment today! Our team at Kearny Family Dentists is ready to help you find the perfect solution to keep your teeth healthy and protected. Investing in custom mouth guards is a proactive step towards maintaining your oral health, ensuring that your smile stays bright and intact for years to come.