Maybe you are active in a sport where it’s likely to be impacted in the mouth. A simple mouthguard could save you from a costlier implant procedure, where you have to fill in the gap where teeth got knocked out. Another common condition is known as bruxism, where people clench and grind their teeth (sometimes while asleep), accelerating tooth wear and tear.
Whatever your case, when it comes to mouth guards, 32 Pearls recognizes several different types for our Seattle and Tacoma area dental patients:
- Stock mouthguards – These are pre-formed mouthguards that are molded to fit most mouth sizes. They’re generally looser, bulkier, and impede breathing and talking. We generally do not recommend these, as they don’t actually offer much in the way of protection.
- Boiled mouthguards – These mouthguards are made of a thermoplastic substance that reacts to hot water. You boil them briefly, then place the mouthguard against your teeth to try and form a basic mold.
- Customized mouthguards – If you’re looking for optimal protection, this is your best option. When you visit 32 Pearls, you get a custom mouthguard mold made, individually designed by your dentist to allow for unobstructed breathing and speaking while worn. This may be a bit more than getting a cheap mouthguard from the nearest sports store, but trust us when we say the comfort and protection are worth the investment.
Mouthguards are often made for both the upper and lower teeth. If you experience teeth grinding while asleep, a special mouthguard—known as a bite splint or bite plate—can be provided to prevent tooth damage.
Looking to get a mouthguard made just for you? Contact us to schedule a dental analysis!
