Our custom mouth guards can protect your beautiful smile from sports injuries or the effects of teeth grinding.
Custom Smile Protection
Mouth guards, also commonly called “athletic mouth guards” or “sports guards,” are critical pieces of personal equipment worn during high-impact sports, such as football and hockey. At Carolina Oaks Dental Care, we offer custom mouth guards for athletes, as well as for patients who grind their teeth. A custom guard will give you the best possible fit and protection.
How Do Mouth Guards Work?
Mouth guards fit securely over the upper teeth and protect your or your child’s mouth from any injuries which may be sustained from an impact while playing sports.
Whether you’re tackling a quarterback, shooting a hockey puck, or take a nasty fall, mouth guards will protect the entire oral region and maintain the aesthetic appearance and health of your teeth, gums, and smile.
Mouth guards can also be worn to prevent grinding your teeth during sleep. If you’re experiencing soreness in your jaw, book an appointment with your family dentist in Greenville, SC now to learn more. The helpful and experienced staff at Carolina Oaks Dental Care will work with to get you in quickly and conveniently so you can get back to your busy schedule.
Why Should You Use a Mouth Guard While Playing Sports?
The majority of sporting organizations require that mouth guards be worn at all times while playing in order to protect your teeth, jaw, gums, and even the base of your brain.
Mouth guards also reduce instances of the following injuries:
- Cheek lesions
- Lip lesions
- Broken teeth
- Gum and soft tissue injuries
- Concussions
- Jawbone fractures
- Neck injuries
- Tongue lesions
Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) advocates that young children use mouth guards because children are especially prone to traumatic brain injury resulting from a sporting accident.
What Kinds of Mouth Guard Options are Available?
There are three kinds of mouth guards: stock mouth guards, boil and bite mouth guards, and customized mouth guards. If you’re not sure which kind is right for you, make an appointment with your trusted Greenville, SC dentist today. Here are some details about the most common types:
Stock Mouth Guards
These universal, “one-style-fits-all” versions can be bought and immediately inserted into the mouth for use. However, these are the least popular style because they provide the least amount of protection, and can be uncomfortable to wear.
Boil and Bite Mouth Guards
This style is called “boil and bite” because they need to be boiled in hot water to become pliable. Once heated, the guard can be fitted into the mouth and pressed against the teeth to create a mold which is customized to fit your mouth.
Customized Mouth Guards
These custom-fit guards are specifically crafted by your dentist to fit to each individual’s teeth, bite, and jaw. These are the most expensive option, however, they are more comfortable, orthodontically accurate, and most approved by most dentists.