Whether you’re an athlete engaged in high-impact sports or someone struggling with teeth grinding at night, a mouthguard is a simple yet highly effective solution to protect your teeth. At Pittsfield Dental, we provide custom-fitted mouthguards that ensure optimal comfort, protection, and durability.
Why Wear a Mouthguard?
According to the American Dental Association, athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to suffer from dental injuries. Additionally, those with bruxism (teeth grinding) risk long-term damage without proper protection.
A mouthguard acts as a shield for your teeth, absorbing impact and preventing damage from external forces or habitual grinding.
Benefits of Using a Mouthguard
- Sports Protection- Athletes participating in contact sports like football, basketball, hockey, and martial arts can prevent broken teeth, jaw injuries, and soft tissue damage by wearing a well-fitted mouthguard.
- Bruxism Management- If you suffer from teeth grinding or jaw clenching, a night guard can protect your teeth from excessive wear, fractures, and jaw pain.
- Orthodontic Care- For individuals with braces or other orthodontic appliances, mouthguards provide extra protection against injuries caused by accidental falls or impacts.
- TMJ Disorder Relief- Mouthguards can help reduce pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), alleviating jaw pain and discomfort.
- Snoring and Sleep Apnea Support- Certain mouthguards can help reduce snoring and improve airflow during sleep by slightly repositioning the lower jaw.
Types of Mouthguards
- Stock Mouthguards – Pre-formed, inexpensive, but offer minimal protection.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards – Softens in hot water and molds to your teeth for a better fit.
- Custom-Fitted Mouthguards – Made by a dentist for maximum comfort, protection, and durability.
- Night Guards – Specifically designed to prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
- Mouthguards for Braces – Protects both teeth and orthodontic appliances from impact injuries.
Custom Mouthguards: The Best Protection
At Pittsfield Dental, we recommend custom-fitted mouthguards for superior protection and comfort. Here’s how we create your personalized mouthguard:
- Consultation: We assess your dental needs and discuss the best mouthguard option for you.
- Impression Taking: We take an exact mold of your teeth for a perfect fit.
- Fabrication: Your custom mouthguard is crafted in a high-quality dental lab.
- Fitting Appointment: We ensure it fits securely and comfortably.
- Follow-Up Care: We provide cleaning and maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your mouthguard.
Mouthguards for Children: Keeping Young Athletes Safe
Children are particularly vulnerable to dental injuries while playing sports. A well-fitted mouthguard can:
- Prevent knocked-out or fractured teeth
- Reduce the risk of soft tissue injuries
- Encourage good oral health habits from a young age
Caring for Your Mouthguard
- Clean after each use with mild soap and water
- Store in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria buildup
- Avoid high temperatures that may warp the material
- Replace when worn out (every 6 months to a year)
Protect Your Smile with Pittsfield Dental
Investing in a high-quality mouthguard is a smart decision to protect your teeth from damage. Whether you need a sports mouthguard, night guard, or orthodontic protection, Dr. Nidhi and the team at Pittsfield Dental are here to help.
Schedule an appointment today to get a custom-fitted mouthguard designed just for you! Your smile deserves the best protection.