Mouth Guards
Mouth guards are dental devices used to protect the teeth from an injury that may occur due to grinding the teeth or playing sports. They also protect the lips, tongue, and cheeks, reduce snoring and sleep apnoea.
Who should use a mouth guard?
Children and adults who play sports like football, basketball, lacrosse, ice hockey, and boxing need to wear a mouthguard. You may also need a mouthguard while carrying out a recreational activity or playing non-contact sports with a risk of mouth injury.
You need a mouth guard, bite plate or splint if you grind your teeth at night to reduce the risk of teeth damage.
What features should my mouth guard have?
Your mouthguard should have the following features.
- Have a comfortable and tight fit
- Odourless and tasteless
- Allow easy breathing and swallowing
- Should not alter your speech production
Can I use a mouth guard during braces treatment?
Yes, you can. It is possible to sustain an injury that may damage your braces or your fixed dental appliance, so you need to wear a well-fitted mouthguard on your braces or any other fixed bridgework.
Your dentist can help you choose a well-fitted mouthguard that you can use during your braces treatment or while wearing any other fixed dental appliance.
How to care for your mouth guard
Caring for your mouthguard is necessary to ensure it lasts longer and does not harbour bacteria that may cause different dental issues.
The following tips will help keep your mouthguard clean.
- Soak your mouthguard in cold water and soap, then rinse it afterwards
- Rinse your mouthguard using cold water before and after each use. Alternatively, use a mild soap and brush gently with a toothbrush
- Keep your mouthguard away from direct sunlight, hot surfaces and hot water to prevent distortion
- Store your mouth guard in a perforated container. This allows proper air circulation to prevent damage.
- Always check your mouthguard before wearing it. If you notice distortion or a hole in the mouthguard, get a new one.
- Always have your mouthguard with you during your dental examination to enable your dentist to examine it for wear and tear.
How long will a mouth guard last?
Mouth guards require replacement after a certain period, but adults may not need to change theirs often. You need your dentist to check your mouthguard during your routine dental check-up to determine if you need a new one.
How much is a mouth guard?
The cost of a mouth guard varies, depending on the dentist and the type you need. Your dentist can tell you the cost of your mouthguard after your dental examination.
You can visit Tunbridge Wells Dental Care today to have a dentist examine your teeth and take your teeth impressions to make a custom-made mouth guard. Call us now on 01892 538078 or send an email via [email protected] to schedule an appointment with our dentist to get a mouthguard.
