Protecting your teeth is important, and the most effective way to do so is often through a custom mouth or sports guard designed by your dentist. Fennell, Yoxthimer, and Associates, DDS offer custom-fitted mouth guards for our Cincinnati patients.
What are Mouth or Sports Guards?
Mouth and sports guards are plastic coverings for the upper teeth which protect the teeth, lips, cheek lining, and tongue. There are three basic types of mouth guards: Custom-fitted, pre-made, and boil and bite. Fennell, Yoxthimer, and Associates, DDS, offer custom-fitted mouth guards for our patients.
Who Needs Mouth or Sports Guards?
Mouth guards and sports guards are commonly worn by athletes, especially those who play contact sports such as football, hockey, boxing, soccer, or basketball. They are also worn by people who have braces and dental bridges to help protect their teeth. Finally, some patients wear mouth guards at night to prevent damage caused by grinding their teeth.
How do Mouth and Sports Guards Work?
A custom mouth guard is provided by your dentist. They will first take an impression of your teeth, which is then sent to a lab to create the mouth guard. You may be able to choose the color of your mouth guard, and clear guards are also available. Custom mouth guards can typically be created in a week or two. When it arrives to Fennell, Yoxthimer, and Associates, DDS, your dentist will schedule an appointment for you to try it on in the office, and adjust or trim it if necessary. Mouth guards should fit securely in the mouth.
When you are not using your custom mouth guard, you should keep it in its case to protect it and keep it clean. Rinse your mouthguard before and after using it, and clean it regularly with cool, soapy water. Avoid leaving your mouthguard in hot water, in sunlight, or in a hot car, so that it does not change shape or become warped in any way. Your dentist will give you further instructions on caring for your mouth guard.
Schedule an Appointment
If you require a custom mouth or sports guard, schedule an appointment with Fennell, Yoxthimer, and Associates, DDS. Call our Cincinnati office at (513) 631-6600 or request an appointment online.
