Mouthguards and Night Guards

Dental mouthguards and night guards are custom-made oral appliances designed to protect teeth and structures from damage from various activities. Mouthguards are typically used during sports or physical activities to shield the teeth from injury caused by impacts or accidents. They act as a cushion between the upper and lower teeth, reducing the risk of fractures, dislocations, and other dental injuries.

Similarly, night guards are worn during sleep to prevent damage caused by bruxism, which is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth. Night guards help to cushion the teeth and alleviate pressure on the jaw, thereby preventing enamel wear, tooth fractures, and jaw pain. Both types of guards are custom fitted by the dentist in Santa Clara, CA, to ensure comfort and effectiveness, tailored to the individual’s specific dental needs. 

Types of Mouthguards 

Stock Mouthguards 

Stock mouthguards are pre-formed, ready-to-use devices available at most sporting goods stores and pharmacies. They come in a few standard sizes and shapes, designed to fit a range of mouth sizes. These guards are the most affordable option and are suitable for individuals seeking immediate protection without a custom fit. However, stock mouthguards often provide a less secure fit because they are not tailored to individual dental structures, leading to discomfort during use.

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards 

Boil-and-bite mouthguards are an intermediate option that can provide a better fit than stock mouthguards. These guards are made from thermoplastic material, which becomes pliable when heated in boiling water. After softening, the user bites into the material to mold it to the shape of their teeth, creating a more personalized fit. This process results in a mouthguard that conforms better to the contours of the teeth and gums, providing improved comfort and protection. While they are more effective than stock mouthguards, the fit may still not be as precise as custom-made options.

Custom-Made Mouthguards 

Custom-made mouthguards are the gold standard for dental protection. Our family dentist in Santa Clara, CA, professionally crafted these using detailed impressions of the patient’s teeth. The result is a mouthguard that fits perfectly over the teeth and gums, providing maximum protection and comfort. Custom-made mouthguards are designed to provide the highest level of safety during sports and effectively manage bruxism. They are made from high-quality materials that are durable and comfortable, ensuring they stay in place during use. While they are the most expensive option, the investment in a custom-made mouthguard pays off with superior fit, comfort, and protection. Contact us today to learn more.

Advantages of Dental Mouthguards 

• Bruxism and TMJ disorders can contribute to tension headaches and migraines by straining the jaw and surrounding muscles. Mouthguards help mitigate these issues by reducing the pressure on the jaw and teeth, which can, in turn, lessen the frequency and severity of headaches and migraines. By addressing the underlying cause of the pain, mouthguards have proven to be a noninvasive solution for headache relief.  

• Individuals with bruxism or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) may experience jaw pain, muscle tension, and discomfort. Dental mouthguards help alleviate these symptoms by redistributing the forces exerted during grinding and clenching. The cushioning effect of the mouthguard reduces strain on the jaw muscles and TMJ, leading to decreased pain and improved comfort.

• One of the primary advantages of dental mouthguards in Santa Clara, CA, is their ability to protect against injuries during physical activities. In contact sports such as football, hockey, and martial arts, mouthguards act as a barrier, absorbing and distributing the impact force, thereby preventing chipped teeth, fractures, and other traumatic dental injuries. This protection is crucial for preserving the integrity of the teeth and reducing the risk of complex dental repairs. 

• Dental mouthguards are versatile and can be used for activities beyond sports and bruxism management. They are beneficial for individuals who grind their teeth due to stress, those with a history of dental trauma, or anyone engaged in activities with a risk of oral injury. Their adaptability makes them a valuable tool for maintaining oral health across different scenarios. 

Types of Night Guards 

Soft Night Guards 

Soft night guards are made from flexible, cushioned materials. They are designed to provide a comfortable barrier between the upper and lower teeth. 

Dual-Laminate Night Guards 

Dual-laminate night guards combine a soft inner layer and a hard outer layer. The inner layer provides comfort, while the outer layer offers durability and protection. 

Hard Night Guards 

Hard night guards are made from rigid, durable materials that provide maximum protection against teeth grinding. They are often used for severe cases of bruxism. 

Benefits of Night Guards 

• One of the primary benefits of night guards is their ability to protect tooth enamel from erosion. Bruxism can cause significant wear and tear on the enamel, leading to thinning and damage over time. Night guards create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing direct contact and reducing the risk of enamel erosion. By protecting the enamel, night guards help maintain the integrity of the teeth and prevent long-term dental damage. 

• Teeth grinding and jaw clenching can contribute to tension headaches and migraines. Night guards help alleviate pressure and reduce muscle strain, which can, in turn, lessen the frequency and intensity of headaches. By addressing the root cause of the problem, night guards have proven to be a noninvasive solution for managing headache symptoms related to bruxism.  

• Bruxism can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to restless nights and poor sleep quality. By reducing the impact of teeth grinding, night guards help promote a more restful and uninterrupted sleep. This can improve overall well-being, as better sleep supports overall health and reduces fatigue. 

• For individuals with dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or veneers, bruxism can compromise these treatments and lead to premature failure. Night guards protect existing dental work by minimizing the forces exerted during grinding and clenching, thereby preserving the longevity of these restorations and avoiding additional dental procedures. 

Dental mouthguards and night guards protect your teeth and maintain oral health. Visit Crestview Family Dental at 265 Crestview Dr, Santa Clara, CA 95050, or call (408) 217-0727 to schedule a consultation and find the perfect mouthguard or night guard.