Whether you’re an athlete or someone who grinds their teeth at night, a custom mouthguard could be just what you need. As part of general dentistry, custom mouthguards are designed to protect teeth from damage and wear. Custom mouthguards to help protect your teeth in various situations. These are valuable tools for many of our Tucson, AZ, patients.
Custom Mouthguards in Tucson, AZ
Engaging in sports activities often involves the risk of dental injuries. A custom mouthguard is specifically designed to fit your teeth and provide superior protection compared to over-the-counter options. Whether you live in Oro Valley or Marana, safeguarding your teeth during physical activities is important. Custom mouthguards can prevent injuries like chipped teeth, fractured crowns, and even concussions.
A custom mouthguard can also protect your teeth from bruxism damage. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can cause significant dental issues over time. Many patients experience this condition while they sleep, so it’s not always caught early before the damage is done.
Custom mouthguards also referred to as night guards, can help alleviate the stress on your teeth and reduce the risk of wear and tear. Dr. Jennifer Mohr’s custom night guards fit perfectly and provide the best protection.
What to Expect at Mohr Smiles
Getting a custom mouthguard is straightforward and simple. Our general process is as follows:
- Dental Exam: The first step in getting a custom mouthguard is to schedule a dental exam with Dr. Jennifer Mohr. During this visit, she will review your dental health and determine the best type of mouthguard for your needs. The exam will allow us to create the perfect mouthguard for your specific teeth and smile.
- Mouth Impression: After the exam, Dr. Mohr will take an impression of your teeth. This step ensures that the mouthguard will fit your unique dental structures. The impression is usually quick and painless because Dr. Mohr uses a soft material to capture the shape of your teeth. Residents from Vail and other nearby areas can easily visit our practice for this procedure.
- Fitting Appointment: When the mouthguard is ready, we will call you back for a fitting appointment. During this visit, Dr. Mohr will ensure that the mouthguard fits correctly and comfortably. She will make any necessary adjustments to provide the best possible protection and comfort. This step makes sure that the mouthguard will be effective, whether it’s for sports or bruxism.
Benefits of Custom Mouthguards
When you choose a custom mouthguard, you can experience a variety of benefits.
Superior Comfort
One of the primary advantages of custom mouthguards is the comfort they offer. Generic mouthguards can be bulky and uncomfortable. Custom mouthguards are designed to fit your mouth perfectly. This means you can wear them for extended periods without discomfort, so they’re ideal for both sports and nighttime use.
Enhanced Protection
Custom mouthguards provide the best protection because they’re tailored to your specific dental anatomy. This precise fit ensures that your teeth, gums, and jaw are adequately shielded from impact. Whether you play sports or need protection from bruxism, a custom mouthguard offers the best defense against dental injuries.
During sports, a mouthguard absorbs impact to prevent dental injuries. This is important for athletes in high-contact sports like football or hockey. Having a proper mouthguard significantly reduces the risk of broken teeth and other injuries.
For those who grind their teeth during sleep, a custom mouthguard can provide relief. It acts as a barrier, and reduces the wear on your teeth and alleviates TMJ disorders. These disorders can cause pain and affect how your jaw moves.
Longevity and Durability
We make our custom mouthguards from high-quality materials. They’re more durable than over-the-counter options and can withstand significant wear and tear. Investing in a custom mouthguard from Dr. Jennifer Mohr means you’re choosing a solution that will last.
Patient Review
Custom Mouthguard FAQs
Custom mouthguards are the best way to protect your smile. Learn more by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.
Who should wear a custom sports mouthguard?
Anyone who participates in contact or high-impact sports should consider a custom mouthguard. This includes athletes in football, basketball, soccer, hockey, wrestling, and martial arts. Even non-contact sports like gymnastics or skateboarding carry a risk of dental injury. Children, teens, and adults can all benefit from the enhanced protection of a professionally made appliance.
What sports require a mouthguard?
Many organized sports recommend or require mouthguards to reduce dental injuries. High-contact sports such as football, boxing, and hockey present obvious risks, but basketball and soccer also lead to frequent oral trauma. According to the American Dental Association, athletes are significantly less likely to experience dental injuries when wearing a properly fitted mouthguard. Custom appliances provide the most reliable protection during these activities.
How does a custom mouthguard protect my teeth?
A custom mouthguard acts as a shock absorber by distributing impact forces across the dental arches. When a blow occurs, the appliance cushions the teeth and supporting bone structures. This reduces the likelihood of chipped, fractured, or knocked-out teeth. It can also help protect soft tissues like the lips, cheeks, and tongue from lacerations.
Can a custom mouthguard prevent concussions?
While no mouthguard can completely prevent concussions, a properly fitted appliance may help reduce the severity of transmitted forces to the jaw. Stabilizing the jaw during impact may limit certain movements that contribute to injury. However, mouthguards are primarily designed to protect teeth and oral tissues. Athletes should still use appropriate helmets and safety equipment.
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
With proper care, a custom mouthguard can last several years. Longevity depends on factors such as usage frequency, grinding severity, and growth changes in children. Athletes and bruxism patients may require periodic replacements. Regular dental visits help monitor wear and ensure continued effectiveness.
What happens if my mouthguard feels loose?
If your mouthguard becomes loose, it may no longer provide optimal protection. Changes in dental alignment, wear, or growth can affect fit. Schedule an appointment so your dentist can evaluate it. Adjustments or replacement may be recommended.
Are custom mouthguards covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your specific dental insurance plan. Nightguards prescribed for bruxism are often partially covered. Sports mouthguards may not always be covered, but policies vary. Your dental team can help verify benefits and explain financial options.
Can I talk while wearing a mouthguard?
You can speak while wearing a custom mouthguard, although it may take a brief adjustment. Because it fits securely, speech interference is minimal compared to bulky store-bought versions. Athletes can communicate effectively during gameplay. Nightguards are worn during sleep, so speech is not typically a concern.
Are custom mouthguards comfortable?
Yes, comfort is one of the primary advantages of a custom appliance. Because it is tailored to your exact dental anatomy, it fits securely without excessive bulk. Patients typically adapt quickly and can speak and breathe more easily compared to store-bought options. Proper fit also reduces irritation to gums and soft tissues.
Can I wear my mouthguard with braces?
Yes, custom mouthguards can be designed to fit over orthodontic appliances. This is especially important for patients undergoing treatment with braces or aligners. A properly fitted guard protects both the teeth and orthodontic hardware. Your dentist will ensure the appliance accommodates ongoing tooth movement.
Are you ready to invest in long-term protection for your teeth? Give Mohr Smiles Dentistry a call at 520-660-5666 or request an appointment online. We serve all of Tucson, the surrounding neighborhoods, and are accepting new patients.