When you think of supplies to keep your smile in top shape, you may stop at a toothbrush and floss. However, if you play sports or have habits that can otherwise affect your smile, you also need a custom mouthguard.

Custom-made mouthguards are better at protecting teeth than guards purchased from a store. That’s mostly due to their superior fit. Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to ensure your mouthguard fits you perfectly. It will feel more comfortable than store-bought guards, so you won’t be tempted not to wear it.

To talk to your dentist about mouthguards, call us today at 559-608-3533. In the meantime, see some ways a guard can protect your smile and/or improve your overall health:

  • Protect Teeth From Sports Injuries – According to an article in the Journal of the American Dental Association, up to 39 percent of dental injuries are related to sports. That’s a statistic that should convince you to wear an athletic mouthguard. Since the custom mouthguard fits better than one from a store, it will be less likely to get knocked out. You also won’t need a frustrating “boil-and-bite” process to adjust the fit.
  • Relieve Jaw Aches – Chronic jaw pain is a symptom of a TMJ disorder. Though the causes are somewhat mysterious, this disorder is often associated with teeth grinding and/or jaw clenching. These habits put pressure on your temporomandibular joints (TMJ). When they become irritated and inflamed, it causes pain. A custom mouthguard worn at night gently moves your jaw into a position that relieves pressure on your joints, so your jaw can heal. 
  • Stop Teeth Grinding Damage – The TMJ mouthguard also keeps you from grinding your teeth. This prevents damage like cracks, chips, and even broken teeth. Many people don’t even realize they grind their teeth. Your dentist may be able to identify worn enamel and other signs during an exam. 
  • Lessen Headaches – In addition to jaw pain, TMJ troubles also often result in frequent headaches. Relieving the pressure on your jaw with a mouthguard can lessen the number of headaches you suffer. 
  • Help You Get Better Rest – If you have sleep apnea, the soft tissues in your throat will briefly cover your airway many times during the night, causing you to gasp for breath. This means you do not get the kind of restful sleep you need. It also often causes loud snoring that disturbs your bed partner. A custom-made mouthguard eases your jaw into a position that keeps your airway clear while you sleep. Many sleep apnea patients prefer a mouthguard to a CPAP machine, another often prescribed treatment. Since it doesn’t have a mask or make noise like a CPAP does, it’s easier to get used to wearing a sleep mouthguard.

Need a custom mouthguard? Call Sequoia Dental Office today at 559-608-3533 for an appointment in Visalia, CA. You can also request an appointment online.