Night Guards & Sports Guards
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Night Guards and Custom Mouth Guards in Baton Rouge, LA
Many people are unaware of the potential damage that clenching, grinding, and sports-related injuries can have on your teeth. It can lead to painful cracks, fractures, and wear over time, as well as jaw pain and muscle tension associated with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ). At O’Shee Family Dentistry, our custom-fitted night guards and sports mouth guards can mitigate these risks and protect your natural smile.
What are Dental Night Guards?
Dental night guards are oral appliances that protect teeth from the damaging effects of clenching and grinding. These devices, typically made of hard or soft acrylic material, are designed to fit securely over the teeth, creating a protective barrier. While over-the-counter options are available, dentist-provided night guards offer superior benefits. Dentist-provided night guards are custom-fitted to your unique oral structure to ensure optimal fit, comfort, and effectiveness.
Why Would Someone Need a Mouth Guard?
- Teeth Clenching: Many individuals unconsciously clench their teeth, especially during times of stress or while asleep. This constant pressure can lead to excessive wear, fractures, and muscle tension.
- Grinding: Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition characterized by the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, particularly during sleep. Bruxism can cause significant damage to tooth enamel, leading to cracks, fractures, and other dental issues.
- TMJ Disorders: Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders can result in jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, difficulty chewing, and other discomforts. Dental guards can help alleviate symptoms by reducing pressure on the jaw joint and preventing further damage.
- Protection During Sports: Athletes involved in contact sports or activities with a risk of dental injury should always wear a sports mouth guard. They provide cushioning and protection for the teeth, lips, cheeks, and tongue, reducing the risk of traumatic dental injuries such as broken teeth or jaw fractures.
Signs and symptoms that may indicate you need a dental guard
- Chronic headaches, especially upon waking
- Facial pain or soreness, particularly around the jaw area
- Tooth sensitivity or pain, often exacerbated by chewing
- Noticeable wear or flattening of tooth surfaces
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint
Benefits of Wearing Night Guards and Sports Mouth Guards
- Protection against Teeth Clenching and Grinding: Night guards act as a protective barrier that helps reduce wear and tear on the teeth, preserving their integrity and preventing damage.
- Prevention of Dental Issues: By distributing the forces evenly and reducing pressure on individual teeth, these guards help maintain the structural integrity of the teeth and prevent the need for costly dental treatments such as crowns and root canals.
- Alleviation of Jaw Pain: Night guards can provide relief from jaw pain, muscle tension, and symptoms associated with TMJ by promoting proper jaw alignment and reducing strain on the jaw muscles and joints.
- Enhanced Comfort and Quality of Sleep: By reducing teeth clenching and grinding-related disturbances, you can enjoy a restful night’s sleep, waking up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
- Prevention of Sports-Related Dental Injuries: Sports mouth guards are essential protective devices during physical activities. Investing in a custom-fitted sports mouth guard can significantly reduce the risk of dental emergencies and long-term damage, allowing athletes to focus on their performance with peace of mind.
How To Care for Your Night Guards
Proper care and maintenance of your night guards can improve their longevity and effectiveness. Here’s how to keep your mouth guards clean, comfortable, and functional:
- Proper Cleaning and Maintenance Techniques: Gently brush your mouth guard with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste after each use. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any residue. Avoid using hot water, as it can distort the shape of the guards.
- Storage Tips to Prolong the Lifespan of Night Guards: When not in use, store your night guards in a clean, dry case to protect them from dust, debris, and damage. Avoid exposing them to excessive heat or direct sunlight, and keep your guards away from pets or children who may mistake them for toys or chewable objects.
- Regular Check-ups with the Dentist for Adjustments and Evaluation: Schedule regular check-ups with us to ensure that your night guards fit properly and are functioning effectively. Dr. O’Shee can make any necessary adjustments to improve comfort and performance and evaluate your guards for signs of wear or damage.
Mouth Guard Dentist in Baton Rouge, LA
Whether you’re seeking protection against teeth clenching and grinding, alleviation of jaw pain, or prevention of sports-related dental injuries, schedule a dental appointment at O’Shee Family Dentistry in Baton Rouge, LA. During your consultation, Dr. O’Shee will work with you to understand your goals and develop a treatment plan to meet your needs.