Mouth Guards for Adults and Kids

A mouthguard is one of those things you don’t know you needed until it’s too late. Reason #1 is, they can help prevent fractured, chipped, and missing teeth – all of which are expensive and exhausting to repair. Reason #2 is, a night guard can help reverse sleep apnea: a disorder that is potentially lethal.

For this reason, it is recommended that you immediately consult a dental doctor if you, your child, or someone you know check any of the following boxes:

• Persistent snoring
• Persistent teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Waking up breathless for no apparent reason
• Participate in contact sports
• Have an overbite or underbite that can cut into your mouth tissue during physical activities

Here are the different kinds of mouthguards we offer at our clinic – and how they can help you.

Night Guards

Bruxism (grinding your teeth) and snoring are common and annoying problems that affect children and adults alike. They’re inconvenient, they’re unpleasant for those around us, and they can have unpleasant side effects. For example, bruxism slowly wears down your enamel, i.e. the hard white outer layer of your teeth. As another example, both bruxism and snoring are symptoms of sleep apnea: a disorder that can make a person suffocate and even die in their sleep.

Some forms of sleep apnea require medication – sometimes hormonal – to overcome. This is the case for “central” and “complex” apneas which originate in the nervous system. It is not, however, the case for obstructive sleep apnea, which is purely physical – and which can be eliminated with a night guard.

So whether you’re dealing with snoring, bruxism, or any other problem that bothers you during the night time, it’s imperative that you bring yourself in for a dental check-up. The same applies to your children and loved ones. You don’t want to take drugs to correct a problem that a night guard can deal with – and you definitely don’t want to live with a potentially deadly health disorder.

Sports Guards

If your child participates in contact sports, they are likely required to wear a mouth guard. Otherwise, they risk injuring their teeth, losing them outright, or damaging their soft tissue – and missing weeks or months of on-field time in recovery.

Your cheapest option, of course, is a standard-issue “boil and fit” mouth guard. This cheap variety is available at most sports stores and some pharmacies – and is ready for use in as little as 20 minutes.

The problem is, a poorly made or poorly fitted mouthguard can do more harm than good, forcefully damaging your (or your child’s) teeth and gums during contact. They can also make it hard to breathe, requiring an open mouth to use.

This likely isn’t what you want – so if you prefer a custom-made mouth guard that fits perfectly, doesn’t obstruct breathing, and lasts for years, you may want to visit our clinic. At South Shore Dental, a professional dentist will use high-grade materials and medical equipment to make a mouthguard that’s perfect for you and your sport.

If you want to learn more about the mouthguards we offer, simply call us at (781) 767-1400 for a free consultation!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q- How do I care for my night guard?

A- Night guards should be cleaned daily with a toothbrush and mild soap or denture cleaner. Rinse thoroughly before use. We offer clear instructions on night guard care to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. Regular check-ups with our team at South Shore will also help monitor your night guard's condition.

Q:  How often should I use a night guard, and is it necessary to see a dentist while wearing one?

A: Night guards are worn at night to prevent teeth grinding and clenching. Checkups with your dentist regularly are essential for ensuring a comfortable fit, keeping track of any changes in your dental health, and making any necessary modifications to effectively manage these conditions. Get in touch with South Shore Dental Care, if you feel any discomfort!

Q: Are there different types of night guards available?

A: Yes, there are various types of night guards. Over-the-counter options are available and can be purchased without a prescription. Dentist-fitted custom night guards, however, are specifically tailored to fit your teeth, providing better comfort and protection compared to generic ones.

Q: How long does a night guard last?

A: The lifespan of a night guard depends on factors such as how often you use it, the severity of your bruxism, and how well you maintain it. On average, a well-cared-for custom night guard can last between 2 to 5 years before needing replacement.

Q: Are there any side effects of using a night guard?

A:While night guards are beneficial for protecting teeth, some individuals might experience minor side effects initially, such as increased saliva production or mild jaw discomfort. These usually subside as you get used to wearing the night guard.