Whether you're a competitive athlete, someone who has a habit of grinding their teeth during sleep, or you are receiving orthodontic treatment, a mouth guard can be an important part of your oral health plan. They are designed to protect your teeth, jaw, and gums from injury. Mouth guards aren’t just important for professional athletes, but for anyone who is trying to preserve their smile. In this blog, we will take a comprehensive look at mouth guards: what they are, the different types available, their advantages, a comparison of custom mouth guards versus boil-and-bite options, care instructions, and help you select the right one for your lifestyle.
What is a Mouth Guard?
The mouth guard is a soft and flexible dental device made of plastic that fits over the teeth and gums. Many people find them useful for protection. They are multifunctional: to help protect the mouth during sports, to minimize the damage from teeth grinding (bruxism), and jaw issues caused by temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). They can be purchased over-the-counter or custom-made by a dentist and can be made of a number of different materials, thicknesses, and durability based on individual needs.
Why Consider a Dental Mouth Guard?
Below are some common reasons for people to use a mouth guard:
Mouth Guards for Teeth Grinding
If you wake up with a sore jaw, headaches, or notice chipped teeth without any injury, you may be grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw while asleep. A mouth guard for sleeping , also known as a night guard for bruxism, can provide a protective barrier to help relieve pressure on your jaw and protect your enamel from damage, especially if you have crowns, veneers, or fillings that may be worn.
Mouth Guards for Sports
Contact sports like football, hockey, and boxing pose a high risk of dental injury. Even seemingly low-risk sports like skateboarding or biking can result in accidents. Sports mouth guards absorb shocks and protect against tooth loss, gum trauma, and potential jaw fractures during impact.
Types of Mouth Guards
Choosing the right mouth guard comes down to your specific dental needs. Let’s look at the main types offered in Australia:
Stock Mouth Guards
These come pre-moulded and are ready for immediate use. Though affordable and easy to find in pharmacies or sports stores, they typically don’t fit well and provide minimal protection. They can feel bulky and interfere with breathing or speaking due to their fixed shape. They are best suited for occasional or temporary use, such as school sports. However, they are the same size for everyone and are not ideal for teeth grinding or extended use.
Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards
These guards are made from thermoplastic material that softens when heated. You dip it in hot water, then bite into it to shape it around your teeth. They fit better than stock versions and offer more reliable protection, although not always a perfect fit. They are ideal for recreational athletes and people seeking an affordable option. However, they are not as durable as custom-made ones, and the fit can deteriorate faster.
Custom Mouth Guards
Custom mouth guards are crafted by dentists from a mold of your teeth, ensuring optimal fit, comfort, and protection. They are highly recommended for those who grind their teeth or participate in contact sports. They are ideal for long-term usage, for those with bruxism, orthodontic patients, and serious athletes.
Custom vs. Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guard
The main difference between custom and boil-and-bite mouth guards comes down to price versus precision and comfort.
| Feature | Custom Mouth Guard | Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guard |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Made according to each individual’s dental structure | Semi-customized |
| Comfort | Highly comfortable | Moderate |
| Durability | Long-lasting | Medium |
If you need consistent protection and long-term reliability, especially for bruxism or frequent sports, custom guards are the best choice. However, if you’re on a budget or need something short-term, boil-and-bite options can be used.
How to Clean a Mouth Guard?
Whatever type you select, cleanliness is essential. Poor hygiene can cause bacteria build up, leading to unpleasant smells or oral infections.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean a mouth guard :
Rinse after Each Use
Use lukewarm water to remove debris and saliva immediately after removing.
Gentle Brushing
Clean the guard daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Don’t use hot water, as it may warp the material.
Weekly Soaking
Once a week, soak the guard in an antibacterial solution like denture cleaner or a mix of water and vinegar.
Store It Dry
Ensure the guard is completely dry before placing it in a ventilated case to avoid mould.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Never use bleach or alcohol-based products, as these can break down the material.
When to Replace a Mouth Guard
Like other dental tools, mouth guards don’t last forever. Be on the lookout for:
- Visible cracks or damage
- Discomfort while wearing
- Persistent bad smell despite cleaning
- Discoloration or a hardened texture
Typically, a sports mouth guard lasts a single season, while a custom night guard can last up to five years with proper maintenance.
Dental Protection with Smilepath
Smilepath is well-known for providing a hassle-free teeth straightening experience for individuals throughout Australia. Apart from clear aligner treatment, Smilepath offers a wide range of dental devices to guard your grin. From sports to sleep, we have you covered.
Smilepath Sports Mouth Guard
If you are an athlete, a sports guard is an essential device to keep you going. Our mouth guards are customized to each individual’s dental structure, which means your teeth are fully guarded throughout the game. It is designed to perfectly absorb impact, keeping your teeth safe from injuries.
Why Choose Smilepath?
Here is why getting a Smilepath Mouth Guard can be the ideal choice for you:
- Customized to provide you comfort with protection
- Designed for extreme sports activities
- Free shipping throughout Australia
- Affordable dental care from the comfort of your home
Dental Mouth Guard
To sum up, purchasing quality dental appliances is very important for proper oral health. There are many mouth guards to choose from, both over-the-counter and custom-made. Choose the ones that are best for you. Smilepath has custom-fit mouth guards to protect your grin on the field and while you sleep. Smilepath provides quality mouth guards, using only the best materials to ensure you have the ultimate protection for your winning smile.
FAQs
Over-the-counter mouth guards are often poorly fitted, which may cause discomfort. It may cause poor breathing and gum irritation.
Your dentist might recommend a mouth guard if you grind your teeth at night or play high-impact sports.
There are different types of mouth guards. You can wear a mouth guard according to your requirements, for instance, if you grind your teeth or are involved in sports activities.
Yes, mouth guards help prevent teeth from grinding and clenching, protecting tooth enamel. On the other hand, sports mouth guards absorb impact and prevent injuries.
Citations:
American Academy of Pediatrics. Mouthguards: Information for Parents (https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/oral-health/Pages/Mouthguards.aspx). Accessed 1/10/2023.
American College of Prosthodontists. Mouthguards (https://www.gotoapro.org/treatments/mouthguards/). Accessed 1/10/2023.
American Dental Association Mouth Healthy. Mouthguards (https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/m/mouthguards). Accessed 1/10/2023.
American Sleep Association. Night Guard for Bruxism: Teeth Grinding and Clenching (https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/m/mouthguards). Accessed 1/10/2023.
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