Dental health is a very important part of your life. Mouth guards aren’t just for athletes and teeth grinders—they can be an important aspect of maintaining good oral health. Here’s how a mouth guard might be more essential than you think.
1. Protecting Against Grinding
Chronic teeth grinding, or bruxism, can lead to significant dental problems such as enamel wear, fractures, and chipping. A custom-fit night guard provides a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing the effects of grinding while you sleep.
2. Safeguards for Sports
If you’re involved in contact sports, protecting your teeth should be a top priority. Wearing a mouth guard during activities such as football, basketball, and wrestling can prevent injuries like broken teeth, jaw injuries, and cuts to the lip or tongue.
3. Stopping Snoring
For some, snoring can be more than just a noisy nuisance; it may indicate a health condition named sleep apnea. Specifically designed mouth guards can help alleviate mild to moderate snoring, and in some cases, sleep apnea, by holding the jaw slightly forward to keep airways open.
4. Post-Orthodontic Care
After investing in orthodontic treatment, maintaining the position of your teeth is vital. A retainer mouth guard is custom-designed to your newly aligned smile, protecting your investment and keeping your teeth straight.
5. Injury Prevention in Children
Children can be quite accident-prone, especially as they become more active in sports and physical activities. A pediatric dentist may recommend a mouth guard to protect their teeth from injury during play and associated falls or collisions.
6. Managing Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD)
Those who suffer from TMD often clench their teeth during the day, exacerbating the condition. A mouth guard not only protects against night grinding but also helps to alleviate daytime clenching, providing relief for TMD sufferers.
7. Providing Stress Relief
Stress and anxiety can manifest in various ways, including through dental issues like grinding. A mouth guard can serve as a tactile reminder to relax your jaw and can be especially helpful during high-stress times.
8. Maintaining Oral Health During Sleep
Saliva production decreases during sleep, which is problematic for those with dry mouth conditions. Sleeping with a mouth guard can help keep the mouth closed and retain moisture, reducing the risk of cavities and other oral health problems associated with dry mouth.
When it comes to maintaining good oral health, a mouth guard can be a valuable tool. From protecting against teeth grinding and sports injuries to providing relief for TMD and promoting overall relaxation, there are many reasons why investing in a custom-fit mouth guard is beneficial.