Teeth are strong, but they are not designed to absorb every impact or repeated heavy pressure.
A knock during sport can chip, fracture or dislodge a tooth, while repeated grinding or clenching may place additional stress on teeth and restorations over time.
Depending on the cause, a dentist may recommend a custom mouthguard or protective dental appliance.
Bittern Dental provides custom-made mouthguards in Bittern for sporting protection as well as appliances for patients who experience grinding or clenching. (Bittern Dental)
What is a custom mouthguard?
A custom mouthguard is made specifically to fit an individual's teeth and bite.
Rather than using a standard shape, the dentist takes an impression or digital scan of your teeth so the appliance can be produced according to the contours of your mouth.
The purpose of the guard depends on why it has been prescribed. A sports mouthguard is intended to help protect the teeth during physical activity, while a night guard may be recommended in some cases of grinding or clenching.
Who should consider a sports mouthguard?
Dental injuries can happen in many sports, particularly activities involving physical contact, fast-moving equipment or the possibility of falls and collisions.
A mouthguard creates a protective barrier around the teeth and can help absorb and distribute forces during an impact.
Children and adults who participate in contact or collision sports may therefore be advised to wear one during both training and competition.
For growing children, the fit should also be reviewed periodically because the teeth and jaws continue changing.
Custom-made versus over-the-counter mouthguards
Mouthguards are available from many retailers, but they do not all fit in the same way.
A custom mouthguard is made from an impression or digital scan of your teeth. This allows the appliance to be shaped specifically for your mouth.
Bittern Dental notes that professionally made guards are designed with fit, breathability, durability and protection in mind. (Bittern Dental)
A guard that is uncomfortable or continually falls out may also be less likely to be worn consistently.
What about teeth grinding at night?
Not every mouthguard is a sports mouthguard.
Some people grind or clench their teeth, a behaviour known as bruxism. It may happen during sleep without the person being aware of it.
Signs can vary, but some people notice worn or chipped teeth, jaw muscle discomfort or changes to existing restorations.
A dentist can examine the teeth and discuss whether a custom night guard is appropriate. The appliance provides a protective surface between the upper and lower teeth, helping reduce direct tooth-to-tooth contact.
However, jaw discomfort and tooth wear can have different causes, so assessment is important before assuming grinding is responsible.
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
There is no fixed replacement schedule that applies to everyone.
Children may need replacements more frequently as their teeth and jaws develop. Adults may use a guard for longer, although wear, damage or changes to dental work can alter the fit.
Heavy grinding can also gradually wear down a night guard.
Bring the appliance to dental appointments when recommended so its condition and fit can be checked.
How should a mouthguard be cared for?
A mouthguard needs to be kept clean between uses.
Follow the cleaning instructions provided by your dentist and allow the appliance to dry before storing it in its protective case. Avoid exposing it to excessive heat, as some dental materials can distort.
Before wearing it, check for cracks, rough edges or changes in shape.
If the guard no longer fits comfortably, don't try to reshape it yourself. Have the fit reviewed by your dentist.
Can a mouthguard prevent every dental injury?
No protective device can guarantee that an injury will never occur.
A properly fitted sports mouthguard is intended to provide protection and reduce the forces reaching the teeth during an impact, but dental injuries can still happen.
If a tooth is knocked, chipped, loosened or displaced during sport, arrange a dental assessment promptly even if a mouthguard was being worn.
Bittern Dental also provides emergency dental assessment for broken, chipped or injured teeth, with same-day appointments available when clinic capacity allows. (Bittern Dental)
Final thoughts
A mouthguard is a relatively simple appliance, but the type and fit matter.
Whether you're looking for protection during sport or concerned about grinding or clenching, a dental assessment can help determine which type of appliance is appropriate.
To discuss a custom mouthguard in Bittern, contact Bittern Dental to arrange an appointment. The clinic also welcomes patients from surrounding Mornington Peninsula communities. (Bittern Dental)
