Everything from excessive teeth grinding to playing sports can add wear and tear to your mouth. And without proper preventative care, you could wind up with chips, enamel loss, and even jaw pain. Getting a custom mouthguard in Palmdale and Lancaster, CA, could help reduce the risk of mouth trauma.
Why Go Custom with a Mouthguard
A custom mouthguard is designed to fit your mouth for increased comfort and concentration. When you use a non-fitted mouthguard, you could suffer negative side effects such as difficulty breathing or speaking. A custom-fit mouthguard is made to fit along the natural ridge of your bite, providing protection without impacting your mouth’s ability to function.
Do You Really Need a Mouthguard?
Mouthguards are crucial dental appliances that help prevent injury to the mouth. They are essential for athletes or anyone who plays any contact sport. During a match, excessive tension on the head and jaw can lead to grinding, clashing, and knocking of the teeth. With enough pressure, these forces can increase the risk of chipping a tooth or having a tooth knocked out altogether.
Other Benefits of a Custom Mouthguard
Outside of preventing direct damage to the teeth, custom mouthguards also carry a host of benefits to the wearer. Benefits include:
- Reducing the risk of soft tissue bruising in the mouth
- Lowering the risk of concussions
- Relieving stress and tension in the jaw and neck
- Allowing the wearer to speak and breathe freely
- Reducing the chance of the mouthguard coming loose or falling out
Can a Child or Teen Wear Custom Mouthguards?
Because their mouths are still developing, custom mouthguards for children and younger teens can be difficult. When you get a custom mouthguard, it’s designed and built to fit naturally around your teeth. But as your teeth grow and shift, the fit can become uncomfortable and could reduce efficiency. Because of this, many dentists will suggest waiting until a child is of a certain age to create a custom mouthguard. Your dentist may also recommend waiting until any orthodontic treatment is complete to ensure the mouth is in a stable position before making a custom mouthguard.
If your child or teen plays sports or performs other physically demanding activities, consider discussing mouthguard options with your dentist. You can still get a custom mouthguard for your child, but you’ll likely need to come in regularly to make new ones as your child’s bite changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my custom mouthguard feels too tight or loose?
If your custom mouthguard feels too tight or loose, contact us immediately to schedule an adjustment. A proper fit ensures your mouthguard provides full protection and remains comfortable. Sometimes, a simple modification is all that’s needed. Never try to alter it yourself, as this could compromise or damage the guard’s effectiveness. We’ll check the fit carefully and make any necessary adjustments.
Can I wear a custom mouthguard if I have braces?
Yes, you can wear a custom mouthguard with braces. In fact, it’s especially important to protect your teeth and braces from injury. We design mouthguards specifically to accommodate orthodontic treatment. As your teeth move, regular adjustments or replacements might be necessary. We’ll keep an eye on this throughout your orthodontic care.<
Are there different types of materials used for custom mouthguards?
Yes, custom mouthguards come in several different materials, depending on your needs. Most custom guards are made from durable, flexible thermoplastics. Some guards are designed thicker for sports with higher injury risks, while others are thinner for comfort and easier speech. If you have allergies or sensitivities, we can select a suitable material. We’ll discuss your activities, preferences, and specific dental conditions to find the best fit for you.
Will wearing a mouthguard affect my speech or breathing?
At first, wearing a mouthguard might slightly affect your speech, causing a mild lisp or slight difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. However, most patients quickly adapt after a few days. Breathing shouldn’t be significantly impacted, especially with a well-made custom guard. If you’re experiencing trouble breathing or prolonged speech difficulties, let us know immediately. Adjustments can usually solve these problems easily.
Can I wear a mouthguard if I have missing teeth or dental implants?
Yes, you can still wear a mouthguard with missing teeth or dental implants. In fact, a custom mouthguard helps protect implants and surrounding teeth from damage during sports or grinding. We’ll create a mouthguard specifically designed for your mouth’s unique structure. This ensures stability and effective protection. Regular check-ups will help us monitor any changes and maintain a comfortable fit.
How do I know if I need to replace my mouthguard?
You should replace your mouthguard if it shows signs of wear, like cracks, tears, or thinning areas. Also, if it no longer fits securely or comfortably, you’ll need a replacement. Growing children and teens may need replacements more frequently due to changes in their teeth or jaws. Generally, custom mouthguards should be evaluated annually for fit and function. If you’re unsure, bring your mouthguard to your next appointment, and we’ll check it thoroughly.
Can a mouthguard cause discomfort or soreness?
A properly fitted mouthguard shouldn’t cause ongoing discomfort or soreness. However, mild soreness might happen briefly when you first start wearing it as your mouth adjusts. Persistent pain, soreness, or irritation isn’t normal and indicates a problem with the fit. If that happens, don’t ignore it—reach out to us immediately. We’ll quickly identify the issue and adjust to keep your mouth comfortable and protected.
Where to Get Custom Mouthguards in Palmdale and Lancaster, CA
Protecting your mouth from trauma is crucial if you want to avoid painful damage and costly treatment in the future. Investing in preventative treatment options today can save you time and money tomorrow. Contact Premier Dental Care to schedule an appointment with your dentist and see if a custom mouthguard in Palmdale and Lancaster, CA, is right for you. Call our dentists in Lancaster, CA, or our Palmdale, CA, dentist office at (661) 273-6565 for more information.