Protecting your teeth is one of the smartest moves you can make for your health, whether you are playing sports or sleeping at night. If you are looking for a custom mouthguard in Edina, you probably want something that fits perfectly and doesn’t fall out when you move. A professional mouthguard acts like a high-tech safety shield for your smile, stopping your teeth from banging together or getting hurt during a game.
Why Is a Mouthguard Important?
Your teeth are very strong, but they can still chip or crack if they get hit hard. A mouthguard is a soft piece of plastic that you wear over your teeth. It helps soak up the “shock” if you get bumped in the face. It also keeps your top and bottom teeth from grinding against each other.
If you have been looking for a dentist in Edina to help with a sore jaw, you might already know how much stress your teeth can take. Choosing between a store-bought guard and a professional one is a big decision. One is cheap and quick, but the other is built specifically for your unique mouth.
Store-Bought vs. Custom: What is the Difference?
When you go to a sports store, you usually find “boil-and-bite” guards. You put them in hot water and then bite down on them to shape them. Because they are not made just for you, they can feel bulky and make it hard to talk or breathe.
A dentist near you can make a guard that fits like a glove. They take a mold of your teeth so the guard matches every curve of your smile. Many people ask, is a custom mouthguard better than store bought? Most people say yes because a custom one stays in place even if you open your mouth, while store-bought ones often slip around.
Keeping Athletes Safe in Edina
Edina is a town that loves sports, from hockey on the ice to soccer on the grass. In these games, accidents happen fast. A professional custom mouthguard vs store bought guard offers much better protection because it is made of stronger, layered material.
If a mouthguard is too thick or doesn’t fit right, an athlete might “forget” to wear it. A custom guard is thin and comfortable, so you can keep it in for the whole game. This protects you from broken teeth and can even help protect your jaw from getting hurt during a big hit.
Help for Nighttime Grinding
Did you know that many people grind their teeth while they sleep? This is called bruxism. It can cause headaches, earaches, and worn-down teeth. To stop this, you need a night guard for teeth grinding.
This type of guard is different from a sports guard. It is designed to be worn for many hours while you sleep. While you can buy cheap ones online, you might wonder, are custom night guards worth it? Custom ones are much better because they don’t change the way your “bite” feels. They are thin enough to be comfortable but strong enough to keep your teeth from touching.
How a Custom Mouthguard is Made
Getting a professional guard is very easy and does not hurt at all. It usually takes two short visits to the dental office.
- The Mold: The dentist uses a soft material or a digital camera to get a perfect picture of your teeth.
- The Lab: A special lab uses that picture to build your guard out of high-quality material.
- The Final Check: You try it on at the office to make sure it feels just right.
This process ensures that your guard doesn’t feel like a big chunk of plastic in your mouth. Instead, it feels like a natural part of your smile.
Saving Money in the Long Run
A store-bought guard might only cost twenty dollars, while a custom one costs more. However, think about the cost of fixing a broken tooth. A single dental implant or a crown can cost thousands of dollars.
A custom guard lasts a long time and does a much better job of preventing those expensive accidents. It is like an insurance policy for your teeth. When you invest in a good fit now, you save yourself from a lot of pain and high dental bills later in life.
A Smart Choice for Your Healthy Smile
Taking care of your teeth today means you will still have a great smile many years from now. Whether you are a student-athlete or a grandparent who wants to stop jaw pain, the right protection makes all the difference. Modern dental tools have made it so simple to get a guard that is comfortable, safe, and long-lasting.
At 44th Street Dental, we are proud to help our neighbors stay active and pain-free. Our team knows how important it is to have gear that fits your life and your mouth perfectly. We take the time to listen to your needs and make sure you get the best protection possible. We believe that a comfortable mouthguard is the only one you will actually want to wear. If you are ready to see the difference a custom fit can make, we invite you to come in and schedule an appointment with us. We would love to help you keep your smile safe and strong for all the years ahead.
FAQs
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
For most people, a custom guard can last several years if you take good care of it. If you are a young person whose mouth is still growing, you might need a new one sooner. It is a good idea to bring it to your check-up so the dentist can make sure it still fits.
Can I wear a mouthguard if I have braces?
Yes! In fact, it is very important. If you get hit in the mouth while wearing braces, the metal can cut your lips and gums. A custom guard can be made to fit over your braces to keep your teeth and your brackets safe.
Is it hard to breathe with a custom guard?
No, that is one of the best things about them! Because they are made to fit your teeth exactly, they don’t have to be big and bulky. You can breathe, drink water, and talk to your teammates without taking the guard out.
How do I keep my mouthguard clean?
It is very easy. Just rinse it with cool water after you wear it. You can also brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and some mild soap. Make sure to keep it in its plastic case when you aren’t wearing it so it stays clean and doesn’t get lost.