Mouth Guards in Saskatoon
When it comes to mouth guards, we tend to associate the use of these devices with professional athletes. However, they are more commonly used than you may think. They are used by both children and adults alike, while participating in sporting events and rigorous outdoor activities. Furthermore, many people do not realize that you can have a mouth guard created by a Saskatoon dentist, that is specific to your mouth.
What is a Mouth Guard?
Mouth guards are flexible appliances designed to protect the teeth and gums from damage caused by injury, accidents, and tooth grinding. There are different types of mouth guards available. The one you select depends on the patient’s specific case and the recommendation of your Saskatoon dentist.
Different Types of Mouth Guards
The first type is the stock mouth protector. This is preformed and can be worn readily. This type of mouth guard is cheap and is easily available in different sporting goods or department stores. The downside of this type is that it does not allow room for adjustments. These types of mouth guards tend to interfere with speech and can make breathing a bit difficult.
The second type is the boil and bite mouth protectors. To soften the mouth guard, you must place it in hot water. After which, the person must place the device in the mouth and bite down on it. This is done to accommodate your specific bite and form to your mouth. This offers a better allowance for adjustments than the first option.
The third one is custom-fitted mouth protectors. This type of mouth guard is more expensive than the other two because it is created custom by your Saskatoon dentist according to your specific bite. The process starts with your dentist creating a mold or impression of your teeth, used as a model for the fabrication of the custom mouth guards. This takes place in a dental lab and can take up to two weeks to create. This type of mouth guard is the best in terms of comfort and protection.
There is also the night guard, which is recommended for patients who experience bruxism or unintentional teeth grinding in their sleep. This is a special mouth guard is utilized to prevent tooth damage during the process of unconscious teeth grinding.
Despite the different types of mouth guards available for you, it is important to make quality and comfort as a priority. An excellent mouth guard should be able to resist tears, display durability and allow ease of access in cleaning. It should be well-fitted and comfortable to ensure maximum protection of your teeth and gums.
Who Needs a Mouth Guard?
Mouth guards can be used by people of varying ages. However, athletes or those who engage in contact sports are highly recommended to wear these devices to avoid unnecessary accidents or injuries to the mouth. Football, soccer, boxing, basketball, ice hockey, field hockey and other similar activities involve a higher risk of accidents during engagement.
Our teeth and mouth play a huge part in major functions like eating and speaking. It important to take proactive steps towards caring for your oral health and to avoid putting ourselves in positions that may bring harm to our teeth. If you would like to set up an appointment with a Saskatoon dental clinic regarding this type of preventative measure, contact us today.
* All dental services offered at Saskatoon Smiles are provided by general dentists at each location.