Whether you’re an athlete engaged in high-impact sports or someone struggling with teeth grinding at night, a mouthguard is a simple yet highly effective solution to protect your teeth. At Pittsfield Dental Care, we provide custom-fitted mouthguards that ensure optimal comfort, protection, and durability.

Why Wear a Mouthguard?

According to the American Dental Association, athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to suffer from dental injuries. Additionally, those with bruxism (teeth grinding) risk long-term damage without proper protection.

A mouthguard acts as a shield for your teeth, absorbing impact and preventing damage from external forces or habitual grinding.

Benefits of Using a Mouthguard

• Sports Protection – Athletes participating in contact sports like football, basketball, hockey, and martial arts can prevent broken teeth, jaw injuries, and soft tissue damage by wearing a well-fitted mouthguard.
• Bruxism Management – If you suffer from teeth grinding or jaw clenching, a night guard can protect your teeth from excessive wear, fractures, and jaw pain.
• Orthodontic Care – For individuals with braces or other orthodontic appliances, mouthguards provide extra protection against injuries caused by accidental falls or impacts.
• TMJ Disorder Relief – Mouthguards can help reduce pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), alleviating jaw pain and discomfort.
• Snoring and Sleep Apnea Support – Certain mouthguards can help reduce snoring and improve airflow during sleep by slightly repositioning the lower jaw.

Types of Mouthguards

• Stock Mouthguards – Pre-formed, inexpensive, but offer minimal protection.
• Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards – Softens in hot water and molds to your teeth for a better fit.
• Custom-Fitted Mouthguards – Made by a dentist for maximum comfort, protection, and durability.
• Night Guards – Specifically designed to prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
• Mouthguards for Braces – Protects both teeth and orthodontic appliances from impact injuries.

Custom Mouthguards: The Best Protection

At Pittsfield Dental Care, we recommend custom-fitted mouthguards for superior protection and comfort. Here’s how we create your personalized mouthguard:

1. Consultation: We assess your dental needs and discuss the best mouthguard option for you.
2. Impression Taking: We take an exact mold of your teeth for a perfect fit.
3. Fabrication: Your custom mouthguard is crafted in a high-quality dental lab.
4. Fitting Appointment: We ensure it fits securely and comfortably.
5. Follow-Up Care: We provide cleaning and maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your mouthguard.

Mouthguards for Children: Keeping Young Athletes Safe

Children are particularly vulnerable to dental injuries while playing sports. A well-fitted mouthguard can:

• Prevent knocked-out or fractured teeth
• Reduce the risk of soft tissue injuries
• Encourage good oral health habits from a young age

Caring for Your Mouthguard

• Clean after each use with mild soap and water
• Store in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria buildup
• Avoid high temperatures that may warp the material
• Replace when worn out (every 6 months to a year)

Post-Use Instructions for Mouthguards

To ensure your custom mouthguard works effectively and stays comfortable, keep these points in mind:

• Initial Adjustment: It may feel slightly bulky or unusual at first. Give yourself a few nights or practice sessions to get used to wearing it.
• Speech & Breathing: Practice speaking and breathing with your mouthguard to help you adjust more quickly, especially if it’s for sports.
• Consistency: Wear your night guard every night if prescribed, and always wear your sports guard during practice and games to prevent unexpected injuries.
• Travel Care: Always carry your mouthguard in its case when traveling to avoid accidental bending or contamination.
• Dental Work Updates: If you undergo new dental treatments (like fillings, crowns, or braces), your mouthguard may need adjustment or replacement. Bring it along to your next dental visit.
• Longevity: Even with proper care, mouthguards don’t last forever. Monitor for changes in fit and comfort—your dentist will let you know when it’s time for a new one.

If your mouthguard causes persistent discomfort, feels loose, or interferes with your bite, schedule a visit to Pittsfield Dental Care for an adjustment.

Protect Your Smile with Pittsfield Dental Care

Investing in a high-quality mouthguard is a smart decision to protect your teeth from damage. Whether you need a sports mouthguard, night guard, or orthodontic protection, Dr. Nidhi and the team at Pittsfield Dental Care is here to help.

Schedule an appointment today to get a custom-fitted mouthguard designed just for you! Your smile deserves the best protection.