{"id":8353,"date":"2021-09-01T09:40:34","date_gmt":"2021-09-01T13:40:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.opencare.com\/blog\/?p=8353"},"modified":"2021-08-18T16:11:58","modified_gmt":"2021-08-18T20:11:58","slug":"mouthguards-101","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.opencare.com\/blog\/mouthguards-101\/","title":{"rendered":"Mouthguards 101"},"content":{"rendered":"Reading Time: <\/span> 6<\/span> minutes<\/span><\/span>

Have you ever wondered whether or not you need a mouthguard? If so, this article is just what you need before scheduling your next <\/span>dentist appointment<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you’re not sure what questions to ask, don’t worry. You’re certainly not alone, especially if you’re unfamiliar with mouthguards or night-guards.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Though you may be unaware of their purposes, mouthguards work better than you might think to protect your teeth and gums from damage. While wearing the device, you may notice some initial and temporary discomfort; but the oral health benefits are worth the mild inconvenience.<\/span><\/p>\n

You may be wondering about the purpose of a mouthguard and why they are necessary for some people. So, here are the essentials you should know before you choose which mouthguard works best for you.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the end, your smile will remain protected, healthy, and beautiful.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What is a mouthguard?<\/b><\/h2>\n

A mouthguard is a dental device that protects your teeth while playing sports. They’re also helpful if you grind and clench your teeth in your sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

Either way, mouthguards work well when fitted properly to the shape of your teeth and mouth. Some come in standard sizes, and others include customized fits; they can also be made from different materials.<\/span><\/p>\n

A common misconception is the difference between dentures and mouthguards. They may seem similar, but they don’t have the same purpose.<\/span><\/p>\n\n

Dentures are replacement teeth that substitute for tooth loss, while mouthguards protect wearers against tooth loss.<\/span><\/p>\n

Mouthguards typically consist of moldable plastic that can fit anyone’s mouth, and they’re also small enough to carry around and use as needed. Therefore, it\u2019s important not to lose your mouthguard.<\/span><\/p>\n

Who might need a mouthguard?<\/b><\/h3>\n

If you play a contact sport, a mouthguard is strongly recommended. In fact, you may have no choice but to wear one.<\/span><\/p>\n

No matter which sport you play, health and safety come first. This includes oral health as well as physical health. An injury to the mouth or gum line can cause tooth loss and\/or excessive bleeding, and severe damage may require emergency oral surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n\t\t

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\u00a0In addition to contact sports, mouthguards can also protect your teeth during other physical activities like riding a bike, skateboarding, or other recreational activities that create the potential for injury to the mouth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Mouthguards, or nightguards, also work well for those who grind their teeth at night or suffer from sleep apnea.<\/span><\/p>\n

What are the types of mouthguards?<\/b><\/h3>\n

There are three basic types of mouthguards, including:<\/span><\/p>\n