A custom mouthguard is a specially designed protective device that fits perfectly over your teeth. Unlike store-bought options, custom mouthguards are made just for you at our Lansing, MI dental office. We create high-quality mouthguards that protect your teeth, gums, and jaw from injury during sports or from damage caused by teeth grinding at night.
Our custom mouthguards are created using dental impressions of your teeth. This ensures a perfect fit that’s comfortable to wear and provides maximum protection. Whether you’re an athlete looking to protect your smile during sports or someone who grinds their teeth at night, our custom mouthguards offer the best solution for your needs.
Nightguards are recommended for patients with teeth grinding or bruxism. This is when someone clenches or grinds their teeth while they sleep and a nightguard helps protect their teeth and bite from damage. If you wake up with headaches, jaw or tooth pain, you may need to see us about getting a nightguard.
Benefits of Custom Mouthguards
Mouthguards are recommended to protect the jaw and teeth during physical activity and sports such as boxing, football, basketball, or other activities where your mouth may be hit. Guards also protect the soft tissues of your tongue, lips and cheek lining. This reduces the risk of teeth falling out or other oral injuries.
Superior Protection and Comfort
Store-bought mouthguards use a one-size-fits-all approach that often results in poor fit and discomfort. Our custom mouthguards are designed to fit your unique smile perfectly. This means no slipping or moving during use and no need to clench your teeth to keep it in place. You’ll be able to talk and drink water without removing the mouthguard, breathe better while wearing it, and experience more comfort during extended wear.
Better Protection for Athletes
If you play sports like football, basketball, hockey, or soccer, a custom mouthguard is essential for protecting your smile. Sports-related dental injuries can be painful, expensive to fix, and sometimes permanent. Our custom sports mouthguards absorb shock from impacts to protect teeth from breaking and prevent cuts to lips, cheeks, and tongue. They reduce the risk of jaw fractures, provide protection that lasts longer than store-bought options, and may even help reduce the risk of concussions.
Relief for Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Many people grind or clench their teeth while sleeping, a condition known as bruxism. Over time, this can lead to worn-down teeth, jaw pain, headaches, and even cracked teeth. Our custom nightguards create a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth and reduce pressure on your jaw muscles and joints. They help prevent headaches and facial pain, protect your teeth from excessive wear, and may improve your sleep quality.
The Process of Getting A Mouthguard Fitted
Getting a custom mouthguard is a simple process:
- Dental Examination: First, we’ll examine your teeth and jaw to determine the best type of mouthguard for your needs. We’ll discuss whether you need a sports mouthguard or a nightguard for teeth grinding.
- Taking Impressions: Next, we’ll take precise dental impressions of your teeth. This involves placing a special dental putty in a tray and having you bite down for a few minutes. The process is quick and comfortable.
- Creating Your Custom Mouthguard: We send your impressions to our dental lab where skilled technicians create your custom mouthguard using high-quality, durable materials. Depending on your needs, we’ll select the appropriate thickness and design.
- Final Fitting: When your mouthguard is ready (usually within 1-2 weeks), you’ll return to our office for a final fitting. We’ll make sure it fits perfectly and make any necessary adjustments for maximum comfort and protection.
Sports Mouthguards vs. Nightguards: What’s the Difference?
While both types of mouthguards protect your teeth, they serve different purposes and are designed differently:
Sports Mouthguards are made from a thicker, more shock-absorbent material to protect against impacts. They’re designed to be worn during physical activities and are bulkier than nightguards.
Nightguards are typically thinner and made from a harder plastic material. They’re designed to withstand the constant pressure of teeth grinding throughout the night and are more comfortable for sleeping.
It’s important to use the right type of mouthguard for your specific needs. Using a sports mouthguard for teeth grinding or a nightguard for sports won’t provide adequate protection and could even be dangerous.
Caring for Your Custom Mouthguard
To ensure your mouthguard lasts as long as possible and remains clean and effective:
- Rinse your mouthguard with cool water before and after each use
- Clean it regularly with a soft toothbrush and mild soap (not hot water)
- Store it in a ventilated case when not in use
- Keep it away from heat, which can warp the material
- Bring it to your regular dental checkups so we can inspect it for wear
- Replace it if you notice any cracks, tears, or changes in fit
Protect Your Smile with Cavanaugh Dental
Your smile is worth protecting! Whether you’re an athlete looking to safeguard your teeth during sports or someone suffering from teeth grinding, a custom mouthguard from Cavanaugh Dental in Lansing, MI is the best solution.
Contact Cavanaugh Dental today at (517) 760-6845 or request an appointment online for your custom mouthguard fitting. Our friendly team is ready to help you protect your smile with a comfortable, effective solution tailored just for you.