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Custom Mouthguard Baltimore, MD

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Mouthguards An Overview

Woodlawn MD family dentist Dr. Byron Desbordes highly recommends custom-fit sports mouthguards for all patients participating in contact sports. Custom-fit mouthguards can protect your teeth, gums, and oral appliances (such as braces) from permanent damage on the field. Mouthguards help you protect the investment you have already made in the health and wellness of your teeth and gums.

Benefits of Custom Mouthguards

Dr. Desbordes offers custom-fit mouthguards for their range of benefits. Dr. Desbordes highly recommends custom-fabricated sports mouthguards as a more effective alternative to over-the-counter options. Protecting the teeth during physical activity can reduce your risk of chipped teeth, knocked-out teeth, and injury to the jaw. You only get one set of natural teeth, so it is important to take the proper steps to keep them protected during physical activity.

  • Custom-fit mouthguards reduce irritation of the gums and soft tissues of the mouth
  • More comfortable, snug fit
  • Kids and teens are more likely to wear them due to the ability to easily drink fluids with the mouthguard in place
  • Maximum protection in the event of an accident or collision
  • Studies indicate they may reduce mild concussions
  • Recent studies have shown an increase in athletic performance when wearing a custom mouthguard
  • Do not have to waste energy biting down on the appliance to keep it in place

Sports Mouthguards Vs. TMJ Mouthguards

In addition to custom sports mouthguards, there are certain mouthguards that help with bruxism and teeth grinding. Many patients have asked if they can use one of these forms of mouthguards to treat both conditions. However, you should never use a mouthguard for anything other than its explicit purpose.

Sports mouthguards are made of lightweight, bulkier material. Their purpose is to absorb shocks in case you get hit in the mouth during play. A bulkier material is the best option to do this. If you tried to use a sports mouthguard overnight for teeth grinding, you would damage both the mouthguard, and likely your teeth.

A TMJ nightguard, on the other hand, is made of thinner, harder material. It creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, so you can’t grind them together. It wouldn’t work well as a sports mouthguard. TMJ nightguards aren’t designed to absorb any shock or trauma. You would likely have the same result as you would without wearing a protective mouthguard at all.

The Office is always helpful and supportive. It is like a family and everyone is friendly. My husband, who has always been afraid of going to the Dentist is even comfortable here. I would recommend Dr. Desbordes and his office…Robin C.
My visit to Dr. Desbordes was excellent. He took me for an emergency. The treatment and the service of the staff was excellent.Wanda D.
Everyone is amazing. From the time you make that initial phone call, to your hygentist/ dental assistant, to Dr. D himself, you know that you are in good hands! Lucked out on a referral from a friend.Arlene G.

Mouthguards What to Expect

Dr. Desbordes will custom design a mouthguard to properly and comfortably fit your teeth. A well-fitted mouthguard functions and protects your mouth better than over-the-counter options. Athletes report being able to concentrate better and perform at their peak when they have a mouthguard that fits well.

Dr. Desbordes will take impressions of your teeth to be used in fabricating your custom appliance. The fabrication of your mouthguard will take a few weeks. Our local dental lab will create the mouthguard after your initial visit. Once fabricated, you can pick up your mouthguard at our Woodlawn, MD dentist office and head straight to your game with the confidence that your oral health is properly protected.

Schedule A Consultation

If you or your children play sports, contact our dentist office in Baltimore, MD to learn more about how a custom-fit mouthguard can protect your long-term dental health. Contact our Woodlawn, MD dentist office or schedule a visit online.

Mouthguards FAQs

What is the difference between a mouthguard and a night guard?

A sports mouthguard and night guard are two different appliances that do not function the same way. A mouthguard is designed to protect the teeth from blows to the face while participating in contact sports. A night guard is used to prevent your teeth from grinding while you sleep. They can not be used interchangeably because they serve two different purposes.

When do I need to replace my mouthguard?

A custom-made mouthguard is not indestructible and will lose its effectiveness as it begins to thin out. When it begins to wear down, deform and thin out, you should have a new one made. As a child grows, so will their jaw. This will cause their teeth to shift and they will require a new mouthguard. Also, if you have any dental work completed that will affect your bite, you should have new impressions taken once your treatment is completed and a new mouthpiece made.

How do I care for my mouthguard?

We recommend rinsing it with lukewarm water after each use. At least once a week you should clean the case with an antibacterial soap to get rid of the bacteria that can easily build up in it. About 1-2 times a week you should clean the mouthguard with warm soapy water or a gentle denture cleaner. You can use a soft toothbrush to clean out the grooves.