Dental mouthguards are simple appliances that protect your teeth. There are a variety of mouthguards available, from sports mouthguards to nightguards to snoring and sleep apnea mouthguards. While they may all seem similar, each mouthguard is fundamentally different. Keep reading this blog to learn more about the various types of mouthguards. Please contact our dentist in Country Hills if you’re looking to receive mouthguards near you.
What Are The Various Types of Mouthguards Available?
Typically, the most affordable and widely used type of mouthguard is a stock mouthguard. These mouthguards can be purchased from a pharmacy or a sporting goods store. Stock mouthguards come in various sizes and are placed over the top arch of your teeth. While stock mouthguards are economically friendly, there are a couple of downsides. First, they come in limited sizes, so don’t expect them to fit over your teeth perfectly. Second, they are probably not the most comfortable mouthguard on the market. Please note, that you may find difficulties speaking when the mouthguard is in place.
The second type of mouthguard available is called boil-and-bite and can be purchased through most pharmacies or online. They do cost a bit more than the stock mouthguards. However, they allow for a bit more customization. Just like the name, you will boil the mouthguard until it softens, and then you will bite down to mould it to your teeth.
Lastly, custom-made mouthguards from your dentist are the most expensive option available. However, these custom mouthguards are also the most effective and comfortable. Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create a mouthguard that perfectly hugs your mouth. This ensures they fit comfortably, stay in place, and allow you to breathe and speak normally.
If you are suffering from snoring, teeth grinding, or sleep apnea, a custom mouthguard from your dentist, is the only option that will effectively address the issue. While customized mouthguards are more expensive, they are often covered under dental insurance. If you are looking to learn more about receiving mouthguards in Country Hills, please contact us! We will be happy to discuss your options with you.
What Mouthguard Should I Be Using?
At a glance, all mouthguards look the same to most people. Let’s discuss various dental issues and how a mouthguard can address the problem.
Bruxism or teeth grinding is quite common. A custom-made nightguard will create a barrier between your upper and lower teeth to prevent you from grinding your teeth at night. Nightguards can effectively prevent damage and alleviate bruxism.
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes disruptions to your breathing as you sleep. Patients will experience pauses during their breathing throughout the night as the oxygen flow gets disrupted. A custom mouthguard can help open your airways by pushing your tongue and lower jaw forward. However, for more severe cases of sleep apnea, please contact our dentist near you for other treatment options.
If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment and would like to wear a mouthguard or nightguard, it is possible to create a custom appliance to fit comfortably over your braces! Contact our dentist in Country Hills to learn more today.
It’s possible to use a stock or boil-and-bite mouthguard if you engage in sports. However, a custom-made mouthguard will fit more comfortably in your mouth and allow you to speak without any issues. This allows for easier communication between your teammates, and you will not have to worry about the guard shifting as you move.
Looking for Mouthguards Near You?
If you’re looking for mouthguards in Country Hills, please do not hesitate to contact our dental office! We are here to help you protect your teeth.