Mouth Guards & Night Guards

Mouthguards protect teeth during sports, preventing injuries, while night guards prevent damage from nighttime teeth grinding, known as bruxism. Both are key for maintaining dental health and comfort.

When is a mouthguard or night guard necessary?

Sports Mouthguard

A mouthguard should be considered an essential equipment for every athlete who participates in contact sports and activities—adults and children. Mouthguards protect against oral injuries from impacts, collisions, and falls.

Mouthguards are crucial for:

  • Contact Sports: Football, hockey, boxing, martial arts
  • Collision Sports: Basketball, soccer, rugby
  • Extreme Sports: BMX, skateboarding, motocross
  • Stick and Ball Sports: Baseball, softball, cricket, lacrosse
  • Racquet Sports: Tennis, squash, badminton
  • Winter Sports: Hockey, snowboarding, skiing

Mouth guards can prevent minor injuries such as your child accidentally biting their lip after getting tackled in football up to more serious injuries that may result in a lifetime of oral health problems, such as a knocked-out tooth.

Night Guards

Night guards are similar to mouth guards but are worn while sleeping to prevent damage from a disorder called bruxism that causes you to clench and grind your teeth while you are asleep unknowingly. Leaving bruxism untreated can result in teeth fractures, breakages, headaches, and jaw pain. Fortunately, night guards are a simple and reliable solution.

What does a night guard do?

  1. Tooth Protection: Nightguards prevent damage from nighttime teeth grinding.
  2. Jaw Relief: They reduce jaw tension and pain by minimizing clenching.
  3. Fewer Headaches: By easing muscle strain, nightguards can decrease headache frequency.
  4. Better Sleep: They contribute to more comfortable and uninterrupted sleep by preventing grinding.

Nightguards are especially beneficial for those with bruxism or TMJ disorders.

  • How much does a night guard or mouthguard cost?

    The cost of night guards and mouthguards can vary based on several factors, including the type, material, and whether they are bought over the counter or custom-made by a dentist.

    1. Over-the-counter night guards and mouthguards are generally the most affordable options, typically ranging from $15 to $50. They are less expensive because they are mass-produced and not customized for an individual’s mouth. While they can offer some protection, they may not fit as comfortably or be as effective as custom-made options.
    2. Custom-made night guards: Custom night guards made by a dentist are tailored to fit the precise contours of your teeth and mouth. These tend to be more comfortable and effective, especially for severe teeth grinders but are more expensive.
    3. Custom-made mouthguards: Similar to night guards, custom-made mouthguards designed by a dentist for sports use are also tailored to the individual. These mouthguards offer the best fit, comfort, and protection for athletes.

    Contact us today so we can get you an estimate based on your unique needs.

  • Does dental insurance pay for night guards?

    Dental insurance may cover part of the cost of custom night guards or mouthguards, especially if deemed medically necessary.

    Please consult your insurance provider to understand your options and any out-of-pocket costs you might incur.

  • How to clean a night guard or mouthguard

    To maintain your night guard or mouthguard:

    1. Rinse it with cool water after each use.
    2. Brush gently daily with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap.
    3. Soak once a week in a denture cleaner or half water, half vinegar solution for 30 minutes, then rinse.
    4. Dry thoroughly before storing in a ventilated case.
    5. Inspect regularly for wear and consult your dentist if needed.

    Avoid hot water, harsh chemicals, and direct sunlight to prolong the life of your appliance.

Need a Mouth Guard?

If you have more questions about mouth guards and night guards, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.

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Hamilton Family Dentistry

5810 Harford Road
Baltimore, MD 21214
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Monday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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(410) 426-8200