Custom mouthguards are dental appliances made specifically for your mouth. Our dental care team creates custom mouthguards using molds of your teeth for a perfect fit. They provide superior protection compared to generic mouthguards. As part of our general dentistry services, we offer custom mouthguards to support both oral health and injury prevention.
Custom mouthguards are often used in sports, and night guards are best for teeth grinding (bruxism). Our team at Advanced Laser & Cosmetic Dentistry uses advanced technology to create mouthguards.
We take detailed impressions of your teeth. This process captures every contour and groove. Our office also works with a dental lab that uses high-quality materials to craft the mouthguard. We can design custom mouthguards to accommodate braces or other dental appliances.
Custom Mouthguards in Carpentersville, IL
Our custom-made mouthguards offer many advantages over generic ones. A well-fitted custom mouthguard can make a significant difference in performance and safety. Athletes can focus on their game without worrying about dental injuries. People with bruxism can sleep better, knowing their teeth are protected. Here’s a detailed comparison.
Store-bought Mouthguards
Generic mouthguards are pre-made and sold in stores. They come in standard sizes. You can find them in three main types:
- Stock mouthguards
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards
- Over-the-counter mouthguards
Generic mouthguards are made from less durable materials. They can wear out quickly, especially with regular use. They also tend to be bulkier. This can make them uncomfortable to wear for extended periods. Athletes may find them distracting during games or practices. People who grind their teeth at night may find it hard to sleep with a generic mouthguard.
Sports Mouthguards
Custom mouthguards offer several benefits:
- Enhanced Protection: They protect teeth, gums, and jaws better. This reduces the risk of injuries. Athletes in contact sports like football, hockey, and lacrosse benefit greatly. A custom mouthguard can absorb some impact from hits to the face.
- Improved Comfort: They fit snugly and comfortably. You can wear them for longer periods. The custom fit means no rough edges or bulkiness. This makes it easier to speak and breathe while wearing it.
- Better Performance: Athletes can perform better with a well-fitted mouthguard. They can breathe easier and communicate more effectively. This can give them a competitive edge and reliable protection.
- Reduced Risk of Dental Issues: They help prevent tooth fractures and dislocations. This can save you from expensive dental treatments. It also preserves your natural teeth, which is always preferable to dental work.
- Long-Lasting: Custom mouthguards are durable. They offer better value over time. While the initial cost is higher, the long-term benefits outweigh it. You won’t need to replace a custom mouthguard as often as a generic one. High-quality materials make custom mouthguards more resistant to wear and tear. They can withstand heavy use without losing effectiveness.
Custom mouthguards can also be designed for specific needs. For example, some people need a thicker mouthguard for heavy grinding. Others may need a thinner one for better comfort during the day. Our dentist can help you choose the right type.
Custom Mouthguards for Different Needs
Mouthguards aren’t just for athletes. They can help with teeth grinding, sleep apnea, or snoring.
Teeth grinding can cause severe dental issues over time. Wearing a custom night guard cushions your teeth and reduces the impact of grinding. Night guards are different from sports mouthguards because they cover only the upper or lower teeth. They also use a harder plastic molded to the teeth.
If you have sleep apnea, an oral appliance can help keep your airway open. It looks similar to a mouthguard but is designed specifically for sleep apnea patients. Wearing this appliance can improve your breathing and reduce snoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you want to learn more? We’ll be happy to help. Read answers to common questions about custom sports mouthguards in Carpentersville and Crystal Lake, IL.
How long do custom mouthguards last?
Custom mouthguards are durable and can last several years with proper care. But their lifespan depends on factors like frequency of use and whether they are used for sports or teeth grinding. If your mouthguard becomes worn out, loses its fit, or shows signs of damage, you need to replace it to maintain effective protection. Regularly cleaning and storing your mouthguard properly can also extend its lifespan.
Do I need a mouthguard for non-contact sports?
While mouthguards are most commonly associated with contact sports, they also benefit non-contact activities like gymnastics, skateboarding, and cycling. These sports still risk falling or accidental impacts to the face. Wearing a custom mouthguard can help protect your teeth from any unexpected accidents.
Can I talk or drink while wearing a custom mouthguard?
One of the benefits of a custom mouthguard is that it ‘s designed to allow you to talk and drink comfortably. Since it fits securely over your teeth, it should not interfere with basic speech or swallowing. But it may take a little practice to get used to speaking while wearing it depending on the type of mouthguard and how tightly it fits. We’ll make sure your mouthguard fits well so you can speak and drink comfortably.
Can custom mouthguards help prevent concussions?
Custom mouthguards primarily protect against dental injuries. Mouthguards can help absorb shock during an impact, potentially decreasing the force transferred to the skull. But they’re not a guaranteed prevention method for concussions. You need to wear proper protective gear and follow safety guidelines to minimize the risk of concussions during sports.
Can I wear a custom mouthguard if I have braces?
Yes, we recommend a custom mouthguard if you wear braces or other dental appliances. It helps protect both your teeth and braces from injury during physical activities. A custom mouthguard can accommodate braces for a snug fit and protect the entire mouth. Without a properly fitting mouthguard, braces can cause cuts and sores inside the mouth during sports.
How do I know if I need a custom mouthguard?
The most common reasons why you may need a custom mouthguard are if you play contact sports or grind your teeth. Signs that you could benefit from a night guard include waking up with jaw pain, headaches, or sensitive teeth. You might also notice your teeth looking flat or worn down.
If you play sports like football, basketball, or hockey, an athletic mouthguard helps protect your teeth and gums from injury. Custom mouthguards fit your mouth perfectly and feel comfortable.
We can examine your teeth and bite to see if a custom mouthguard is right for you. We’ll also make sure it fits properly so you can breathe, talk, and sleep comfortably.
Protect Your Teeth During Sports
Do you need a new sports mouthguard in Crystal Lake or Carpentersville, IL? Call Advanced Laser and Cosmetic Dentistry today at 779-244-6264. You can also schedule an appointment with us online.