Night Guards
If you often wake up with jaw pain, earaches, or headaches, or if you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, you may have bruxism, a common condition.
Although the causes of bruxism are not known, several factors may be involved. Stressful situations at home, school, or work, problems sleeping, an abnormal bite, and crooked or missing teeth may contribute to bruxism. Many people do not even know that they grind their teeth, as it often occurs while sleeping. If not corrected, bruxism can lead to broken teeth, cracked teeth, damaged restorations, or even tooth loss.
There is an easy, non-invasive treatment for bruxism: nightguards. Nightguards are an easy way to prevent the wear and damage that teeth-grinding causes over time. Custom-made by your dentist from soft material to fit your teeth, a nightguard is inserted over your top or bottom arch, preventing contact with the opposing teeth.
Sports Guards
Protecting your smile while playing sports is essential whether you wear braces or not. Injuries to the mouth and jaw are some of the most common injuries athletes receive. Sports guards help protect your teeth and gums. If you participate in basketball, boxing, hockey, football, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, racquetball, rugby, track and field, skateboarding, skiing and snowboarding, skydiving, soccer, surfing, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting or wrestling, it is recommended by the American Dental Association that you wear a mouthguard.
Types of Mouthguards
Choosing the right mouthguard is essential. There are three basic mouthguards: the pre-made mouthguard, the "boil-and-bite" fitted mouthguard, and a custom-made mouthguard. When you choose a mouthguard, be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, well-fitted for your mouth, and easy to keep clean. Also, make sure it does not prevent you from breathing properly during use. If you wear braces or a retainer, you must wear a mouthguard. Your dentist can show you how to wear a mouthguard properly and how to choose the right mouthguard to protect your smile.
Taking Care of Your Mouthguard
Like a retainer, braces, or any other special dental appliance, your mouthguard needs to be properly stored and kept clean. Here are a few simple ways to keep your mouthguard clean and working correctly: You should know when to replace your old one.
- Gently scrub your mouthguard after each use with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Store your mouthguard in a protective case.
- Do not leave your mouthguard in the sun or hot water; it may melt or deform.
- Replace your mouthguard at the beginning of every new sports season. You should also replace your mouthguard if it has become worn and no longer fits properly.
- Do not wear a retainer with your mouthguard. If you wear braces, your dentist will help design a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces.
- Do not chew on or cut pieces off of your mouthguard.
- Bring your mouthguard to each dental checkup, and Dr. Kau can check to ensure it's still in good shape.
Our goal is to help minimize your chances of a sports-related injury. Ask Dr. Kau about mouthguards at your next checkup - GO, TEAM!
If you need a night guard or sports guard, please request an appointment or call us at (925)400-9978.
