Sports-related injuries are common owing to the amount of physical strain it exerts. Anyone can be affected from children to adults. Your teeth are the first part of your body that may suffer due to the impact of physical injuries. However, you can prevent such injuries from impacting your mouth through mouthguards.
The Bristol, Connecticut dentist and their team offer revolutionary oral appliances to protect your mouth from sports-related injuries.
Mouthguards have several purposes and can treat conditions from bruxism and sleep apnea to sports-related injuries. Keep reading to know everything about mouthguards.
What are mouthguards?
Mouthguards are a type of dental appliance that covers your teeth. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) advocates the use of mouthguards during sporting activities since children and adults can benefit from them for several reasons. These appliances are primarily designed to protect teeth and can significantly reduce the degree of force transmitted from a trauma impact point to the central nervous system.
What are the types of mouthguards?
There are several types of mouthguards, but the three main forms have been discussed below:
Sports mouthguards
- Also known as athletic or sports guards, these are worn during sports and other physical activities.
- They protect your teeth from impacts, collisions, and falls.
- They comprise durable and flexible materials such as silicone that absorb and disturb impact forces.
- These are custom-made to fit your mouth accurately.
- Some other forms include:
- Boil and bite guards
- Stock mouthguards
Bite guards
- These appliances are similar to night guards but are worn daily to alleviate bruxism or TMD symptoms.
- These offer a cushioning barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing pressure and friction during jaw movements.
Night guards
- Also known as occlusal guards or dental splints, these are worn during sleep to protect the teeth and jaws from the effects of teeth grinding and clenching.
- They are made up of soft or hard acrylic materials and are customized to your teeth.
- They offer comfort and support during sleep.
- Night guards prevent tooth wear, enamel damage, jaw pain, headaches, and TMJ disorders associated with bruxism.
Snore guards
- These are anti-snoring mouthpieces that are designed to reduce snoring.
- These appliances reposition the jaw or tongue to maintain an open airway during sleep.
- They feature mandibular advancement devices (MADs) or tongue-retaining devices (TRDs) to prevent the collapse of soft tissues in the throat.
Mouthguards are essential protective devices that help safeguard the teeth, jaws, and oral tissues from injuries, trauma, and harmful habits. These appliances play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and overall well-being. Discuss your oral concerns with your dentist to determine the type of mouthguard that best suits you for long-term oral benefits.
