Customized Smile Protection
At Parkside Dental in Westland, MI, we believe everyone deserves a healthy, confident smile they can be proud of for life. That’s why Dr. Cohen and our team offer custom-fitted mouthguards and night guards – two simple yet incredibly effective ways to protect your teeth from damage. Whether you’re an athlete looking to prevent dental injuries on the field or court or someone who grinds their teeth at night, these affordable dental appliances can save you from costly repairs and oral health issues down the road.
Our mouthguards and night guards are precisely molded to your unique bite for superior comfort and protection you can trust. With our expertise and your commitment, maintaining your brilliant smile just got easier.
What are Mouth Guards?
Mouth guards, also known as sports guards or athletic mouth protectors, are resilient plastic devices worn over the teeth to prevent injuries to the mouth area during sports activities. Our Westland dentist recommends wearing a mouth guard if you or your child participate in sports with a risk of facial injury, such as football, basketball, hockey, soccer, wrestling, and boxing.
These customized appliances act as a buffer between the upper and lower teeth, cushioning blows that could otherwise cause chipped or broken teeth, jaw injuries, lip and cheek lacerations, and even concussions. Unlike one-size-fits-all mouthguards from retail stores, Dr. Cohen’s custom-fitted variety offers superior comfort, protection, and retention.
What are Night Guards?
Night guards, also called occlusal guards or bite splints, are similar plastic devices worn over the teeth to prevent the damaging effects of bruxism – the involuntary grinding and clenching of teeth during sleep. This common condition can lead to excessive tooth wear, chips and fractures, jaw pain, headaches, and other problems if left untreated.
When you visit Parkside Dental in Westland, MI, Dr. Cohen can detect the tell-tale signs of bruxism and recommend a custom night guard as an easy, non-invasive solution. Worn while sleeping, this dental appliance provides a protective barrier between the upper and lower arches, absorbing the force of grinding and clenching to reduce dental damage.
Mouth Guard Candidacy
Dr. Cohen often advises getting a custom mouth guard in Westland, MI for patients who:
- Participate in sports with potential mouth/facial injury risks
- Have an increased propensity for oral injuries due to protruding teeth
- Wear traditional braces or other orthodontic appliances
- Engage in recreational activities like skateboarding or cycling
- Struggle with bruxism/teeth-grinding habits
Nothing beats a custom mouth guard from your dentist for the highest level of protection and comfort. During your consultation, Dr. Cohen will take precise impressions and measurements to create a personalized appliance that fits snugly and stays firmly in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s important to keep your mouth guard or night guard clean to prevent bacteria buildup and maintain good oral hygiene. Our dentist recommends gently brushing it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinsing it with cool water after each use. Avoid using hot water as it can warp the plastic over time.
The lifespan of a mouth guard or night guard can vary depending on factors like how often it’s worn, proper care, and any changes to your teeth or bite over time. As a general guideline, our dentist advises having your dental appliance evaluated annually and replaced every 1-2 years or as soon as you notice signs of wear, cracks, or poor fit.
No, mouth guards are designed to be worn only during athletic activities or while sleeping (for night guards). Eating or drinking with a mouth guard in place could lead to choking hazards or damage to the appliance. Always remove your guard before consuming any foods or beverages.
Some patients may experience temporary jaw muscle soreness or discomfort when they first start wearing a night guard, especially if they have been grinding or clenching their teeth intensely. This is normal and usually subsides within a week or two as your jaw muscles adjust and relax against the night guard’s cushioning effect. Let us know if any issues persist.
Protect Your Teeth from Injury & Grinding
Don’t let the fear of dental injuries or the nightly grind of bruxism keep you from living life to the fullest. Whether you’re an athlete in Canton, a weekend warrior in Garden City, or a hard-working professional in Wayne, your smile deserves to be protected.
Call Parkside Dental today at (734) 261-6060 and let Dr. Cohen craft custom-fitted mouthguards and nightguards to safeguard your gorgeous grin. Isn’t it time you stopped worrying about chipped teeth or jaw pain and started prioritizing your lifelong oral health? Take action now by contacting our compassionate team in Westland, MI – your smile will thank you.