Mouthguards can help protect your teeth from chipping or cracking. They’re a vital tool to help people maintain healthy smiles and good oral hygiene. Today’s blog from Parkcrest Dental Group explains when to use a mouthguard to protect your teeth.
Related Post: Parkcrest Dental Group: Does It Matter What Mouth Guard I Use?
When Playing Sports
Even so-called non-contact sports, like basketball, baseball, soccer, softball, and volleyball, can cause mouth injuries. You might take an elbow to the face, have a soccer ball or volleyball hit your face, or run into an outfield wall. Mouthguards can protect your teeth when you play physically intense sports, and the staff at Parkcrest Dental Group can recommend some high-quality mouthguards for you.
Related Post: How to Keep Your Child Athlete’s Teeth Safe
Teeth Grinding & Clenching
Your doctor at Parkcrest Dental Group might prescribe a mouthguard for you to wear if you grind or clench your teeth in your sleep. This condition is called bruxism, and it can cause tooth pain, jaw pain, sore gums, and tooth damage from weakened enamel. Grinding can wear away enamel, while clenching puts added pressure on your entire mouth. Parkcrest Dental Group can recommend treatment options for clenching and grinding your teeth.
When Prescribed by Your Doctor
Your dentist or physician may prescribe a mouthguard for you to wear. Reasons vary. You might be wearing braces, and you’re an active person who exercises or engages in regular strenuous activity. A mouthguard can help with sleep apnea and snoring, conditions that both affect your mouth. Icy weather might be a good time to wear a mouthguard, particularly if you’re susceptible to slips or falls. Your physician may prescribe a mouthguard if you just had mouth surgery or a procedure.
Related Post: How Can I Protect My Braces While Playing Sports?
Oral Hygiene by Parkcrest Dental Group
The staff at Parkcrest Dental Group wants you to have the best oral hygiene you can. Wearing a mouthguard offers one way to do that if your dentist or physician recommends that you do so. Contact Parkcrest Dental Group online or call (417) 887-1220 for more information.
