When Should I Wear a Mouth Guard?

A mouth guard can be a valuable tool for protecting your oral health. If you’re wondering when it would be beneficial to wear a mouth guard, these are a few situations to consider:

Sports

Dental injuries are the most common facial injuries athletes receive. Wearing a mouth guard can help prevent injuries to the mouth, teeth, and jaw. Any athlete, especially those involved in contact sports such as basketball, soccer, lacrosse, wrestling, football, etc., would benefit from wearing a mouth guard.

Teeth Grinding

Many people tend to grind or clench their teeth at night. Teeth grinding damages tooth enamel, which can lead to severe pain and even necessitate tooth removal in severe cases. Grinding or clenching teeth can also lead to jaw pain. Wearing a mouth guard protects teeth from grinding damage by separating your top and bottom teeth. A mouth guard also relieves muscle tension from clenching, which helps prevent jaw problems from developing.

Snoring/Sleep Apnea

Mouth guards can help prevent snoring and sleep apnea. A specific type of mouth guard is used to treat these symptoms, which works by pulling the lower jaw forward to keep your airway more open. If you struggle with snoring or sleep apnea, a mouth guard could be the right choice for you.

These are a few specific examples, but keep in mind that a mouth guard is helpful in any situation when your teeth or mouth might need a little extra protection.

There are different types of mouth guards, but the most effective option is a custom mouth guard made to fit your teeth. We are pleased to offer custom mouth guards to our patients that can help protect you during physical activity, prevent damage caused by grinding or clenching, and help you sleep better.

Give us a call or come into our office today if you think a mouth guard could benefit you.