Occlusal and Sports Guards at Model Dentistry Greenwell Springs

What Are Occlusal Guards?

Occlusal guards (also known as night guards) are custom-made appliances designed to protect your teeth from the effects of bruxism, a condition characterized by teeth grinding or clenching during sleep. Bruxism can lead to several dental issues, including:

• Worn Tooth Enamel: Continuous grinding can wear down your enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.
• Cracked or Chipped Teeth: The excessive pressure from grinding can cause fractures or chips in your teeth.
• Jaw Pain and TMJ Issues: Chronic clenching and grinding can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which causes jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing.

By wearing a custom occlusal guard at night, you can prevent these problems and protect your teeth from damage while you sleep.

What Are Sports Guards?

Sports guards (mouthguards) are essential for athletes participating in contact sports such as football, basketball, hockey, or martial arts. A custom sports guard helps protect your teeth, gums, and jaw from injury during physical activity. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, custom sports guards are designed to fit the unique shape of your mouth, providing better protection and comfort.

Sports guards can help prevent:

• Broken or Knocked-Out Teeth: Accidental blows to the mouth during sports can lead to dental trauma, such as chipped, broken, or lost teeth.
• Jaw Injuries: Custom sports guards protect your jaw from fractures and dislocation during high-impact sports.
• Lacerations to Soft Tissues: Sports guards help cushion your gums, lips, and cheeks from cuts and bruises caused by impact.

Benefits of Custom Occlusal and Sports Guards

Choosing custom-made occlusal and sports guards at Model Dentistry Greenwell Springs, offers several advantages over store-bought options:

• Perfect Fit: Custom guards are designed to fit your unique bite, ensuring maximum protection, comfort, and stability.
• Durability: Custom guards are made from high-quality materials that offer long-lasting protection and can withstand heavy use.
• Prevents Dental Issues: Occlusal guards help prevent enamel wear, cracked teeth, and jaw pain associated with teeth grinding. Sports guards protect against dental trauma during physical activity.
• Comfort: Unlike bulky over-the-counter guards, custom occlusal and sports guards are comfortable to wear, making it easier to breathe, talk, and sleep.

The Occlusal and Sports Guard Process at Model Dentistry

At Model Dentistry Greenwell Springs, we make the process of getting custom occlusal and sports guards simple and convenient. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with an initial consultation, where our team will assess your dental needs. If you suffer from bruxism, we’ll evaluate the extent of your teeth grinding or jaw clenching. For athletes, we’ll discuss your sports activities and the type of protection you need.

2. Impressions for a Custom Fit

To create your custom guard, we’ll take digital impressions of your teeth and bite using advanced technology. These impressions ensure that your guard is designed to fit perfectly and provide maximum comfort and protection.

3. Fabrication of the Guard

Once the impressions are taken, your custom occlusal guard or sports guard will be crafted in our lab using durable, high-quality materials. The guard will be designed to fit your teeth snugly and provide the necessary protection.

4. Fitting and Adjustment

When your guard is ready, you’ll return to our office for a fitting. We’ll ensure that the guard fits comfortably and securely. If any adjustments are needed, we’ll make them on-site to ensure a perfect fit.

5. Care and Maintenance

We’ll provide you with instructions on how to properly care for your occlusal or sports guard, including cleaning tips and how to store it when not in use. Regular maintenance and proper care will extend the life of your guard and ensure it continues to protect your teeth effectively.

How to Care for Your Custom Guard

To keep your custom guard in excellent condition, follow these care tips:

• Clean Daily: Rinse your guard with water and brush it gently with a toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste after each use.
• Store Properly: Keep your guard in a ventilated case when not in use to prevent bacterial buildup and damage.
• Avoid Hot Water: Do not expose your guard to hot water or high temperatures, as this can distort its shape.‍
• Regular Checkups: Bring your guard to your Dental Cleanings so we can inspect it for wear and tear and ensure it continues to fit properly.