Longmont Custom Mouth Guards
From grinding your teeth to playing sports to sleep apnea, there are several reasons you might need a mouth guard, and Dr. Hedrick has the expertise to create a custom-tailored one for you. This article covers the benefits of wearing a mouth guard, the different types available, and the importance of getting one that is custom-made vs. over-the-counter.
What Is a Mouth Guard?
A mouth guard, also known as a mouth protector, is a device that covers the teeth and gums to prevent injury and teeth wear. There are many distinct types depending on the purpose.
Many patients think that a mouth guard is a simple appliance that is easy to make. However, creating a high-quality one takes a lot of skill and effort. Not only will Dr. Hedrick take a 3D image of your teeth for the perfect fit, but she’ll also analyze your bite.
Where Can I Get a Mouth Guard?
Although you can get an over-the-counter mouth guard from a pharmacy or sporting goods store, it won’t come close to matching the quality of a custom-fitted one.
Although a custom mouth guard is more expensive, it offers a superior fit and protection and is ideal if you need to wear one for several hours a day.
Dr. Hedrick has been fitting patients with custom mouth guards for years with excellent results, and she would be happy to help you with yours.
What Is Causing My Teeth to Wear?
Tooth wear is usually a gradual process and can be difficult to notice before it’s too late. Luckily, our office is equipped with iTero scanners, which scan your teeth and create a 3D image to detect problems.
At each dental visit, we can “stack” your most recent scan with previous ones to determine any changes in your teeth over time and address them before they become a problem.
The location of the wear makes a difference, as the causes of front teeth wearing down are often different than those of the rear teeth.
Front Teeth Wear
If your front teeth are worn, it’s a sign that you’re grinding your teeth during the day. This is common among people who sit down for long hours at a desk job; they move their lower jaw forward slightly, which releases serotonin from the brain and relieves stress. But this also causes premature wear on teeth. The good news is that if you’re aware of the problem, then you may be able to stop grinding your teeth during the day. If not, we can always make you a day guard.
Back Teeth Wear
This is a common problem among those with sleep apnea, as it’s caused by the body moving the jaw in an attempt to open up the airway.
If you have back teeth wear, it’s important to discuss the possibility of sleep apnea with your dentist. Dr. Hedrick can arrange for a sleep study in the comfort of your own home. It’s important to get tested to determine if you have sleep apnea, as not treating it can reduce your lifespan.¹
What Are the Different Types of Mouth Guards?
Athletic Mouth Guards
If you play contact sports, we recommend wearing an athletic mouth guard to prevent dental trauma, such as fractured teeth.
Night Guards
Teeth grinding during sleep is a common issue that causes premature wear on teeth, but night guards offer protection against friction
Day Guards
These devices are like Invisalign trays, except they don’t move your teeth. They’re usually clear and discreet, less bulky than night guards, and easier to speak with.
Sleep Apnea Device
For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, this small device may be a solution. What we use is called a Mandibular Advancement Device, which looks like a retainer and fits in your mouth. It also functions as a mouth guard, preventing tooth wear from grinding teeth at night. If you think you may have sleep apnea, we can perform a sleep study for you.
Invisalign
Not only do clear aligners straighten teeth, but they also act as a mouthguard. They don’t offer protection for sports, but they prevent teeth wear during the day and night.
What Are the Color Options for Mouth Guards?
The all-important question about colors! Mouth guards don’t have to be boring, and they come in a wide variety of colors. For example, our night guards come in blue, pink, and green, and you can really go crazy with athletic mouth guards, which come in over 30 colors!
What Is the Process for Getting a Custom-Fitted Mouth Guard?
The process starts with getting your mouth scanned with our iTero scanner, which creates a 3D image of your mouth and enables us to create a mouth guard that gives you a perfect fit. We send your image to the lab, and they’ll create the guard within a few weeks. You’ll then come into our office so we can make sure it fits you comfortably and that you’re biting down correctly. If it doesn’t fit properly, it can cause you to clench and grind your teeth more than you typically would.
Does Insurance Cover a Custom Mouth Guard?
Insurance typically covers about 30% to 50% of the cost for a custom fitted mouth guard.
Why Get a Custom-Fitted Mouth Guard at Longmont Dental Loft?
Dr. Hedrick has helped many patients protect their teeth with custom mouth guards. She will not only ensure the perfect fit but also the right type of guard as well. Contact us today at 303-772-6333 to learn more.
References
- Johns Hopkins Medicine. The Dangers of Uncontrolled Sleep Apnea. Hopkinsmedicine.org. Retrieved November 7, 2023 from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-dangers-of-uncontrolled-sleep-apnea.