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Custom Mouthguards for Everyday Protection
A mouthguard is a protective appliance worn over the teeth to prevent damage, whether from an impact during sports or from the ongoing effects of grinding and clenching at night. At Sumner Dental Group in Gallatin, TN, we offer two main types of custom mouthguards, sportsguards and nightguards, each designed to address a different kind of dental risk.
Both are made from a lightweight, comfortable material and custom-fitted to your teeth for the best possible protection. Whether you are an athlete looking to prevent injury on the field or dealing with jaw pain from nighttime grinding, a custom mouthguard from our office is built specifically for your needs.
Schedule a Mouthguard Fitting
Sportsguards for Athletes
Sportsguards are worn during contact sports and physical activities to cushion the blow when you are hit, helping prevent serious injuries that could otherwise lead to a lifetime of oral health problems. This applies to athletes of all ages, from young children playing recreational sports to adults in competitive leagues.
Our custom sportsguards do not interfere with your regular breathing or speaking, unlike bulkier store-bought options. They can be easily inserted and removed as needed, making them practical for practices, games, and everyday training.
Types of Sportsguards Available:
Stock Mouth Protectors
Ready to wear and inexpensive, available at most sporting goods stores. These cannot be adjusted for fit, tend to feel bulky, and offer only minimal protection.Boil and Bite Mouth Protectors
Also available at sporting goods stores, these are softened in hot water and then shaped around the teeth by biting down, offering a better fit than stock options.Custom-Fitted Sportsguards
Designed individually in our office based on an impression of your teeth, custom sportsguards provide the highest level of protection and comfort of the three options.Nightguards for Teeth Grinding
Nightguards are similar to sportsguards, but they are worn while sleeping to protect against a disorder that causes you to unknowingly clench and grind your teeth at night. This disorder is called bruxism, and leaving it untreated can result in teeth fractures, breakages, headaches, and jaw pain.
Many people are unaware they grind their teeth at night until a partner mentions the noise or a dentist notices the resulting wear during a routine exam. A custom nightguard from Sumner Dental Group offers a simple, effective way to protect your teeth and relieve the strain bruxism places on your jaw.
Signs You May Need a Nightguard:
- Waking up with jaw soreness, tightness, or pain
- Frequent headaches, especially in the morning
- Teeth that appear worn, flattened, or chipped
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- A partner noticing grinding noises during sleep
- Jaw clicking or popping when you open and close your mouth
Getting Your Custom Mouthguard
Whether you need a sportsguard or a nightguard, the process for getting a custom fit at Sumner Dental Group is simple.
Consultation
We discuss your specific needs, whether that is the sport or activity you participate in or symptoms of nighttime grinding, to determine the right type of mouthguard.
1
Taking an Impression
The dentist takes a detailed impression of your teeth to serve as the model for your custom mouthguard.
2
Custom Fabrication
Your mouthguard is molded over the model of your teeth, creating a precise, comfortable fit for its specific purpose.
3
Fitting and Adjustments
Once ready, we check the fit and comfort of your mouthguard and make any adjustments needed before you start using it regularly.
4
Caring for Your Mouthguard
Whether you use a sportsguard or a nightguard, a little routine care helps it stay effective and last as long as possible.
- Rinse your mouthguard with water before and after each use.
- Clean it periodically with a toothbrush and mild soap, avoiding hot water, which can warp the material.
- Store it in a ventilated case to prevent damage and bacteria buildup.
- Bring it to your regular dental visits so our team can check its fit and condition.
Replacing your mouthguard as needed, especially for growing children and teens using sportsguards, helps ensure it continues to fit and protect properly.
Protect Your Smile at Sumner Dental Group
Whether you need protection on the field or while you sleep, a custom mouthguard is a simple investment in your long-term oral health. Schedule your fitting at Sumner Dental Group in Gallatin, TN today.
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