At Hillsborough Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we can create a custom mouthguard to help protect your teeth during your favorite activities. With the help of digital impressions, the process of a mouthguard fitting has never been faster or more comfortable. Digital impressions get rid of the messy conventional dental impressions. Instead, our team will use computer-generated images to get a full representation of your teeth and surrounding tissues.
To protect your teeth from damage, work with Dr. Williamson to create a custom mouthguard specifically for your mouth. Visit our Hillsborough dental office for all your custom dentistry needs.
Custom Mouthguards for Sports
Participating in sports can be exhilarating. However, it also comes with its fair share of risks, including dental injuries. Custom mouthguards are indispensable tools for athletes of all levels, from amateurs to professionals.
- Maximized Protection: Dr. Williamson tailors your custom mouthguard to fit your teeth precisely. A custom mouthguard offers superior protection compared to generic, on-size-fits-all options. They effectively absorb and distribute impact forces. As a result, it reduces the risk of dental injuries.
- Comfort and Stability: The customized fit ensures comfort and stability during athletic activities, allowing you to breathe and speak more naturally. Unlike ill-fitting generic mouthguards, custom ones won’t interfere with your performance.
- Durability: Custom mouthguards are built to last. You should be able to endure rigorous sports sessions without wearing one out. This durability translates to long-term value, as you won’t need to replace them frequently.
- Reduced Concussion Risk: Some studies suggest that properly fitted mouthguards may reduce the risk of concussions by absorbing and dispersing impact forces.
Mouthguards for Braces
For patients with braces, it is vital to protect the investment you made in your mouth. If you have braces, Dr. Williamson can design your mouthguard to fit around your orthodontic treatment.
- Customized Fit: Your dentist can craft your mouthguard to accommodate your braces. This helps to ensure a snug fit that doesn’t interfere with your treatment. A custom mouthguard will protect both the braces and your teeth.
- Prevent Injuries: Braces can add complexity to oral injuries if you get hit in the mouth. Custom mouthguards provide an extra layer of protection against cuts, bruises, and damage to your lips and cheeks.
- Treatment Progress: Wearing a mouthguard designed for braces makes sure that your orthodontic treatment will progress smoothly. You won’t have to worry about setbacks due to unexpected dental injuries.
Caring for Custom Mouthguards
The first step is to clean it regularly. After every use, rinse the mouthguard with cool water to remove saliva and debris. Warm or hot water should be avoided, as high temperatures can warp the material and affect the fit. Brushing the mouthguard gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild, non-abrasive soap or toothpaste keeps bacteria and plaque from building up on the surface. This routine prevents bad odors and reduces the risk of oral infections.
Drying the mouthguard thoroughly before storage is another essential step. Excess moisture can encourage bacterial and fungal growth. After cleaning, place the mouthguard on a clean surface or towel and allow it to air-dry completely. Avoid storing it while it is still damp or leaving it in a closed container immediately after use.
Proper storage also extends the life of a custom mouthguard. A ventilated case protects it from dust, germs, and accidental damage while allowing airflow to prevent moisture buildup. Keep the case clean by washing it regularly with soap and water, as a dirty container can quickly transfer bacteria back onto the mouthguard.
Regular inspections are key to maintaining effectiveness. Over time, even custom mouthguards may show signs of wear such as small tears, thinning areas, or changes in shape. These issues can compromise protection and comfort. If you notice damage, contact your dentist for a replacement or adjustment. Continuing to wear a worn or damaged guard reduces its ability to shield your teeth from grinding, impact, or injury.
Avoiding harmful habits also helps preserve your mouthguard. Do not chew on it, bend it, or leave it exposed to direct sunlight or heat sources, such as car dashboards or dishwashers. These actions can weaken the material and shorten its lifespan.
Custom Mouthguard FAQs
Custom mouthguards from our office protect your teeth far better than over-the-counter options. Read the answers to these frequently asked questions to learn more.
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
With proper care, a custom mouthguard can last several years, especially nightguards for teeth grinding. However, athletes may need to replace their sports mouthguard more frequently due to wear and tear. Children and teens may also need replacements as their mouths grow. We will check your mouthguard regularly and let you know when it’s time for a new one.
Are custom mouthguards comfortable to wear?
Yes, custom mouthguards are designed for comfort. Because they’re made from an impression of your teeth, they fit securely and don’t cause the gagging or bulkiness often associated with over-the-counter guards. With a custom-made option, you can breathe, talk, and sleep more comfortably. Most users adjust to wearing them quickly and forget they’re even there.
Can a custom mouthguard protect against concussions?
While no mouthguard can fully prevent concussions, a well-fitting custom mouthguard can reduce the risk of jaw injuries and lessen the force transferred to the head. Cushioning blows to the face and jaw provides an added layer of protection during sports. Some studies suggest a potential link between mouthguards and reduced concussion severity, but more research is needed. They are a vital part of sports safety gear.
Can I eat or drink with my mouthguard in?
No, you should remove your mouthguard before eating or drinking anything besides water. Chewing can damage the material, and sugary or acidic drinks can get trapped and lead to tooth decay. Eating with your guard in place can also affect its fit and hygiene. Always rinse your mouthguard and your mouth after eating before putting it back in.
Will a custom mouthguard affect my speech?
Some people may experience a minor change in speech when first using a mouthguard, especially if it’s worn during the day. However, most custom mouthguards are designed to fit closely and not interfere with talking. After a short adjustment period, most users can speak normally. If issues persist, we can make adjustments to improve the fit.
How do I know if I need a new mouthguard?
You may need a new mouthguard if it feels loose, shows visible wear, or fits incorrectly. Discoloration, cracks, or changes in your bite are signs that it’s time for a replacement. Kids and teens often outgrow their mouthguards within a year or two. Regular dental checkups will help ensure your guard is still effective.
When you are ready to protect your teeth with custom sports mouthguards, call 919-587-8401. You can also request an appointment online.