Individuals who grind their teeth, participate in sports, or experience some other oral issue require more protection. Dental guards and appliances in Grande Prairie assist with taking care of the teeth and also protect teeth from damage. They also help in improving the health of your mouth overall. Here we will explain below how dental guards and appliances assist with preventing damage to the teeth and enhancing the well-being of your mouth.
Table of Contents
What are Dental Guards and Appliances?
Dental guards, also known as mouthguards, are soft, protective coverings fitting over teeth. Dental guards are usually made from special types of plastics—safe for the mouth. Dental appliances can refer to many devices, such as retainers, braces, expanders, and more. Each of these instruments has its unique function and ways of correcting or protecting the teeth.
- Mouthguards: These are mainly used during sports. When playing games like football, basketball, or even soccer, players can accidentally bump into each other or fall. These mouthguards protect the teeth from hard hits and keep them safe from chips and cracks.
- Retainers: After getting braces, many of the children wear retainers. These devices help to hold the teeth in their new positions after the removal of the braces. This way, teeth don’t move back to where they were before.
- Braces: Braces are used to help straighten teeth that are not in the right place. While wearing braces, it’s important to protect them to make sure they work properly.
- Nightguards: Some people tend to sleep while clenching their teeth, and some practice grinding their teeth while sleeping. The night guard protects the teeth from unnecessary wear and tear and minimizes the occurrence of jaw pain.
How Do Dental Guards Prevent Tooth Damage?
Dental guards and appliances play a big role in preventing tooth damage. Here’s how:
- Cushioning Impact: Mouthguards act like a cushion for your teeth when you play sports. If you get hit in the face or bump into something, the mouthguard absorbs much of the shock. This prevents cracks, chips, and even knocked-out teeth.
- Reducing Grinding: Nightguards help people who grind their teeth at night. Grinding can wear down the teeth and cause pain in the jaw. A nightguard stops the teeth from touching, preventing damage.
- Maintaining Position: Retainers hold teeth in their correct positions after braces. Without a retainer, teeth can slowly shift back to where they were originally, causing uneven bites and spaces.
Why are Dental Guards Important for Oral Health?
Using dental guards and appliances is not just about protecting your smile; it’s also about ensuring your mouth stays healthy.
- Preventing Pain: When teeth get damaged, they can hurt. Dental guards help keep teeth intact, reducing pain caused by cracks or broken teeth.
- Saving Money: Fixing damaged teeth can be very expensive. By wearing a mouthguard during sports or a nightguard while sleeping, you can avoid costly dental treatments later on.
- Better Dental Visits: When your teeth are healthy, your dentist can give you positive feedback during check-ups. Wearing a mouthguard shows that you care about your dental health, helping to avoid problems that may need treatment.
Tips for Choosing and Caring for Dental Guards
- Get a Custom Fit: It’s best to have a dentist make a dental guard that fits perfectly. This way, it won’t slip around in your mouth during sports or sleep.
- Clean Regularly: Make sure to clean your mouthguard or retainer every day. Use mild soap and water or a special cleaner the dentist recommends to keep it fresh and bacteria-free.
- Store Properly: When you’re not wearing your dental guards, keep them in their case. This will help to keep them clean and protect them from getting lost or damaged.
Wrapping Up
Dental guards and appliances are essential tools for protecting your smile and improving your oral health. They help prevent tooth damage from sports injuries, grinding, and shifting teeth. By using dental guards, you can save money on dental repairs, avoid pain, and ensure your mouth stays healthy.
Make sure to talk to your dentist about getting the right dental guard or appliance for your needs.
Protect Your Teeth With Dental Guards and Appliances!
At Gateway Dentistry Group, we care about your smile and overall oral health. Our friendly team of dentist in Grande Prairie provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere where you can feel comfortable while receiving quality dental care. We also offer dental guards and appliances to help protect your teeth from damage and improve your oral health. Come visit us for a consultation and let us help you keep your teeth safe and strong!
