Common Types of Mouthguards

Not all mouthguards are created equal. Before you order an appliance online or pick up a “boil and bite” splint at your nearest drugstore, here’s what you should know about the different types of mouthguards available in Marietta:

Custom Mouthguards

Our Marietta dentist strongly recommends wearing a sports mouthguard if you or your child participates in physical activities such as soccer, football, gymnastics, or other athletic/recreational hobbies. This specially-fitted appliance helps reduce your chances of teeth getting broken or chipped and can help save a tooth from being accidentally knocked out.

Besides common dental injuries, a custom sports mouthguard may also reduce your chances of getting a concussion. That’s because it prevents your lower jaw from being impacted into the base of your skull when fitted and worn as directed.

However, your appliance needs to be fitted by a dentist, as over-the-counter mouthguards can easily slip out of place during a traumatic injury.

Sleep Mouthguards

Oral sleep appliances are a special device that can also help you get a better night’s rest if you snore or have obstructive sleep apnea. These nightguards are typically made up of several pieces, such as an upper arch splint, a lower arch splint, and small connections between the two. They work by moving your bottom jaw forward, reducing airway blockage at the back of your throat, allowing you to breathe easily.

Bruxism Splints and Nightguards

Some of us clench or grind our teeth out of stress, because of medication we take, or due to tension in our TMJ. Wearing a nightguard provides a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. In turn, this lowers your risk of chipped dental work, worn teeth, jaw pain, headaches, and more.

For custom mouthguards and splints in Marietta, call the office Nicole Barnett DMD today!