When it comes to dentistry, prevention is always better than a cure. Whether you grind your teeth in your sleep or play sports, you can benefit from mouthguards and night guards in Spruce Grove. In this blog post, our team at Queen Street Dental tells you about your options for these dental devices and how they can help you.
What is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a removable dental appliance that is worn to protect your teeth. They can be used for a variety of reasons. For example, if you suffer from bruxism, which is the unconscious clenching and grinding of teeth, your dentist may suggest that you get night guards near you to keep your upper and lower teeth protected from each other while you sleep. If you engage in a contact sport, you may require a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury.
What Kinds of Mouthguards Are There?
There are many mouthguards available for purchase, including:
#1 Stock Mouthguards
These are found at your local drugstore, and anyone can purchase them off the shelf. Stock mouthguards are one-size-fits-all, meaning that they are often uncomfortable and bulky-feeling in your mouth.
#2 Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
These can also be found at your drugstore but are a bit more customizable than stock mouthguards. With these mouthguards, individuals can place the guard in hot water and then mold the material to their teeth for a better fit. While these can be more comfortable than stock mouthguards, one has to create the impression perfectly for optimal protection.
#3 Custom-Made Mouthguards
The best place to get a mouthguard is from a qualified dentist near you. They can take professional impressions of your teeth to create a mouthguard that perfectly fits your teeth for optimal comfort and protection.
How Much Do Mouthguards Cost?
The cost of mouthguards will vary depending on the kind of guard and material used for it. In most cases, boil-and-bite and stock mouthguards cost between $50-$400, while getting a mouthguard from a dentist in Spruce Grove can cost up to $700. Although custom guards are more expensive than over-the-counter mouthguards, the comfort and fit they offer are well worth the investment.
How Long Do Mouthguards Last?
The lifespan of mouthguards changes depending on several factors such as what they are used for, how much you clench or grind your teeth if the guard is for bruxism, the amount you use it, and the material used. Most custom-made mouthguards last for about five to six years before requiring replacement.
How to Care for Your Mouthguard
The best way to keep your mouthguard in good condition is to clean it each day and get it deep cleaned at least once a month. Rinse it under warm water for daily cleaning and use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste to remove bacteria and debris. Ensure that your mouthguard is always clean, as it can cause you to become sick if it has a layer of bacteria on it.
Interested in Mouthguards and Night Guards?
If you think you can benefit from a custom-made mouthguard or night guard, our team at Queen Street Dental is happy to help. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us and book an appointment for your custom mouthguard fitting today.