When it comes to protecting your teeth, not all mouthguards are created equal. While store-bought options might seem convenient, they often fall short in terms of comfort, protection, and durability. A custom mouthguard, professionally made to fit your unique dental structure, can make all the difference. This is especially true if you’re experiencing specific symptoms or participating in certain activities. Understanding the signs that suggest you may need a custom mouthguard can help you take the right step toward better oral health and overall well-being.
Frequent Jaw Pain or Tension
If you regularly wake up with jaw pain, soreness, or a tight feeling in your face, you might be grinding your teeth at night. This condition often occurs during sleep and can lead to serious dental issues over time. A custom mouthguard designed specifically for nighttime use can provide a cushion between your upper and lower teeth. It often reduces the wear and tear caused by grinding. Unlike over-the-counter versions, a custom guard stays in place and shouldn’t interfere with your breathing or sleep quality.
Unexplained Headaches or Earaches
Recurring headaches or earaches that don’t have a clear cause could be linked to clenching or grinding your teeth. The muscles involved in chewing are connected to areas around your temples and ears. Overuse or tension in these muscles can result in discomfort that feels unrelated to your mouth. If your doctor or dentist suspects that your symptoms are related to bruxism or TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder), a custom mouthguard could help relieve the pressure and reduce these painful episodes.
Chipped, Worn, or Damaged Teeth
Teeth that are chipping or showing signs of excessive wear may indicate that you’re subjecting them to too much pressure, often without realizing it. Night grinding, high-impact sports, and certain stress-related habits can all take a toll on your enamel. A custom mouthguard could protect your teeth from this damage by absorbing shocks and evenly distributing pressure across your jaw. Not only could this help maintain your natural teeth, but it may also prevent costly dental work in the future.
Participation in Contact Sports
Athletes, particularly those who participate in contact sports like football, hockey, basketball, or martial arts, are at high risk of dental injuries. While stock or boil-and-bite mouthguards offer minimal protection, a custom mouthguard is molded to your teeth and provides superior shock absorption. It could also allow you to breathe and speak more easily, which is critical during high-performance activity. Investing in a custom guard is often a smart preventive measure to avoid knocked-out teeth, lip lacerations, and jaw fractures.
You Wear Braces or Have Dental Work
If you have braces, crowns, bridges, or other dental appliances, a standard mouthguard likely won’t provide the protection you need—and may even cause damage. A custom-fitted mouthguard takes these elements into account, ensuring that your dental work is safeguarded without adding unnecessary pressure. It also stays in place much better than store-bought guards, which can be bulky and ill-fitting around orthodontic equipment.
Grinding Sounds at Night Noticed by Others
Sometimes, the first clue that something is wrong comes from someone else. If a partner or family member tells you they hear grinding or clicking sounds when you’re asleep, it could be a sign that you’re clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth. Even if you don’t feel any pain, the long-term effects can include tooth damage and joint problems. A custom nightguard offers a tailored solution that often reduces the impact of these unconscious behaviors.
Custom Mouthguards in Asheville, NC
At Rebol Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to preserving your oral health. A custom mouthguard could help prevent further damage and costly treatments. If you experience any of the above, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and see if a mouthguard is right for you.