Bruxism/Mouthguards

Dental accidents can happen at any time of the day. Whether you are playing a high-impact sport, or are sleeping soundly in bed, your teeth are at risk of injury. At Elite Smiles Dental, we are proud to offer a variety of mouthguards and night guards to protect your teeth in every situation.

What Are Mouthguards Used for?

Our doctors recommend wearing a mouthguard whenever you are taking part in high-intensity or contact sports. Mouthguards help protect your teeth and gums from injury and can save you thousands of dollars in emergency dental fees.
Some sports that may require the use of a mouthguard include:

· Basketball
· Boxing
· Football
· Martial arts
· Rugby

It is important to keep in mind that accidents can happen in any sport, even non-contact activities, such as gymnastics.

Can I Use a Store-Bought Mouthguard?

Many supermarkets, sporting goods stores, and pharmacies offer over-the-counter mouthguards. These come in two varieties, boil and bite or one-size-fits-all. Although these options are relatively cheap, they are often bulky and don’t fit well. An ill-fitting mouthguard will not provide the same level of comfort and protection as one specially made to fit your mouth.
For the best protection, our doctors recommend using a professional, custom-fitted mouthguard. These are made in our office to fit perfectly over your teeth. They are smaller and more comfortable than store-bought options – making it easier to play and breathe normally. Professional mouthguards are also more durable – making them a much better investment all around.

What Is Bruxism and Why Do I Need a Night Guard?

Bruxism is a dental condition caused by grinding and clenching your teeth. It is a common problem that can lead to severe tooth damage. If left untreated, bruxism can lead to severely worn teeth, cracked teeth, chipped and broken teeth, and even joint problems.
It may not be obvious right away that you are suffering from bruxism. Some symptoms to look for include:

· Chronic pain in the jaw, face, or ears
· Frequent headaches or migraines
· Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
· Very worn enamel
· Tight, sore feeling in the jaw

One of the best ways to treat bruxism is by sleeping with a night guard. Similar to mouthguards, our night guards are made especially for you. They are comfortable to sleep in and can help straighten your jawline – improving your breathing. Wearing a nightguard will prevent you from clamping down and grinding your teeth while you sleep. This can save your teeth from unnecessary wear and tear and can improve secondary symptoms such as pressure migraines and jaw tension.

If you would like to learn more about mouthguards, night guards, or signs of bruxism, call our office at 812-232-6654. Together, we can find a treatment that is right for you!