Tooth wear can be very difficult to prevent. However, with the help of general dentistry, patients can undergo certain treatments or therapies to help reduce the chances that severe wear occurs. A great type of preventive therapy for tooth wear is a mouthguard. Mouthguards are known to be protective and preventive, which goes a long way for patients who have sensitive or weak teeth.
General dentistry practices can administer mouthguards to patients of all ages, children included. Wearing them starting at a young age can prevent serious dental health problems from occurring later on down the line. Ready to learn more?
The following information outlines how a mouthguard can be used to prevent tooth wear. Keep reading to find out more.
Mouthguards in general dentistry are protective oral appliances that cover the teeth and gums. They are custom-created in a dental lab to ensure a perfect fit for each patient. Mouthguards tend to be made of materials that bend and move. They offer patients a flexible fit to ensure comfort and safety while the patient is sleeping or playing sports.
General dentists administer mouthguards to patients who are at especially high risk of grinding their teeth. Bruxism, the other term used to describe teeth grinding, can do significant damage to the tooth’s enamel. Over time, grinding can cause a weakened enamel, which can lead to cracking, chipping and even sensitivity.
When mouthguards are worn on a regular basis, they can prevent the teeth from rubbing up against one another. The friction of one tooth hitting another is what causes significant wear. If the mouthguard is worn, the teeth will not rub up against each other, but rather the materials of the nightguard, which are safe and soft.
A general dentist will take impressions and digital images of the entire mouth to ensure that an appropriate mouthguard is created. If the patient’s teeth are extremely susceptible to grinding then the mouthguard may have to be thicker. If there is less of a risk, a thinner less bulky mouthguard may be recommended.
General dentists recommend patients wear their mouthguards during exercise, sporting events or under high-stress situations. In some instances, the patient may be required to have a separate guard for the night time. Nightguards are designed for sleeping purposes and have some slight differences from a traditional mouthguard.
It is recommended that patients clean their mouthguards each day to ensure that bacteria do not build up. A dental cleaning solution can be used to soak the mouthguard in for a couple of hours. Additionally, it is important to be extra gentle and careful with the oral appliance. Because they help prevent tooth wear, it is important to maintain them so that they last for as long as possible.
Any questions or concerns about mouthguards should be addressed by a general dentistry office. Reach out to our office today to get started with a mouthguard.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drtimhubbs.com or call Vineyard Hills Dental Care at (925) 233-1143 for an appointment in our Livermore office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Clear braces are very similar to traditional metal braces, except clear braces have either tooth-colored or clear brackets. These brackets are made out of ceramic or another similar material. Because the brackets and wires blend in with your teeth, this type of braces offers a nearly unnoticeable solution for straightening your teeth, no matter what…
Dental lumineers are a popular choice for people who want to enhance their smile and cover up any unsightly dental issues, such as chipped teeth or discoloration. Veneers are typically considered the go-to option for such issues; however, they provide a significant amount of coverage that not every patient requires. For less severe dental problems…
Are you searching for a "dentist near me"? Read on to learn more about choosing a dental health professional. If you are in a new location or just need to find a new "dentist near me," you will probably need to explore a couple of options. Finding a good dentist requires you to do your…
Gum disease is a common oral health issue that dentists treat. You may focus more on cavity prevention, but gum issues can be just as critical to your wellness. Putting off treatment can cause more serious issues. You should first recognize the signs and symptoms of this condition and then seek your dentist’s help right…
Clear braces are very similar to traditional metal braces, except clear braces have either tooth-colored or clear brackets. These brackets are made out of ceramic or another similar material. Because the brackets and wires blend in with your teeth, this type of braces offers a nearly unnoticeable solution for straightening your teeth, no matter what…
Dental lumineers are a popular choice for people who want to enhance their smile and cover up any unsightly dental issues, such as chipped teeth or discoloration. Veneers are typically considered the go-to option for such issues; however, they provide a significant amount of coverage that not every patient requires. For less severe dental problems…