Custom Mouthguards in Overland Park

A custom mouthguard helps protect your child’s teeth from injury during sports or damage caused by nighttime teeth grinding. Whether they need an athletic mouthguard or a custom night guard, a professionally fitted appliance provides better comfort, protection, and durability than over-the-counter options.

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Custom Night Guards (Occlusal Guards)

As the name suggests, night guards are worn at night to protect the teeth from clenching and grinding, known as bruxism. Custom night guards are made to fit the unique shape and size of your child’s mouth. They are made from a sturdy, flexible material that helps cushion the teeth and jaw from clenching and grinding during sleep.

Bruxism can lead to:

• Worn-down or chipped teeth
• Jaw pain
• Headaches
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
• Damage to restorations (dental crowns, composite veneers, dental bonding)

Over time, the constant grinding can weaken tooth enamel, increase tooth sensitivity, and create alignment problems that may require dental work to correct.

Benefits of Custom Night Guards

A custom night guard does more than cover the teeth. It is designed to fit your child’s bite precisely, helping protect the teeth while making it comfortable enough to wear consistently.

Benefits include:

1. Protects against dental damage: As mentioned, bruxism can cause significant wear on teeth over time. A custom guard provides a protective layer between the upper and lower teeth, preventing damage to the enamel. 
2. Relieves jaw pain and tension: By reducing pressure on the jaw muscles, it can help ease pain and discomfort caused by teeth grinding. 
3. Improves sleep quality:  Night guards can help reduce the frequency and intensity of teeth grinding, which can lead to a better night’s sleep. 
4. Cost-effective: Investing in a custom solution now can prevent expensive dental treatments in the future.

How To Tell if Your Teen Needs a Night Guard

If you notice any of the following signs, your teen may be grinding their teeth at night and could benefit from a custom night guard:

• They complain of jaw pain or headaches in the morning
• You can hear grinding noises during their sleep
• Their teeth are worn down or chipped
• They complain of tooth sensitivity
• They have difficulty opening or closing their mouth

Night guards and not usually recommended for young children because their teeth and jaw are still developing. For teens who have all their permanent teeth, a custom night guard can help prevent long-term dental issues.

Custom Athletic Mouthguards

Custom athletic mouthguards are an essential piece of equipment for any athlete. These mouthguards provide superior protection compared to OTC boil-and-bite options you can purchase at a store. They are custom-made to fit the unique shape of your mouth, providing a comfortable and secure fit.

Benefits of Custom Athletic Mouthguards

A properly fitted mouthguard provides reliable protection while remaining comfortable enough to wear throughout practices and games. Because it is made specifically for your child’s teeth, it offers a better fit and improved performance than over-the-counter options.

Benefits include:

1. Protects against dental injuries: A custom mouthguard can help prevent tooth loss, broken teeth, and other facial injuries that can occur during sports activities. 
2. Comfortable fit: They are designed to fit your child’s unique mouth shape, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods compared to OTC options. 
3. Better breathing and speech: Due to the custom fit, athletes can talk and breathe more easily while wearing a custom mouthguard compared to OTC options that may be bulky or ill-fitting. 
4. Durable and long-lasting: Custom mouthguards are made with high-quality materials and are designed to withstand rigorous physical activity.

Getting Fitted for a Custom Mouthguard

Whether it is a night guard or an athletic mouthguard, the fitting process is simple and painless. An impression is taken of the teeth by having the patient bite into a soft material for a few seconds. This creates an exact mold that is sent to a dental lab, where the appliance is custom-made. Once it is ready, the patient returns for a fitting appointment so we can check that it fits properly and make any necessary adjustments.

How to Care for A Mouthguard

Proper cleaning and storage help keep it in good condition and extend its lifespan. A few simple daily habits can help prevent bacteria buildup, damage, and unnecessary wear. Follow these care tips to help it last as long as possible:

• Regularly check for wear and tear: Inspect the guard for any signs of damage, such as holes, cracks, or sharp edges. If you notice any, contact your dentist for a replacement.
• Clean it regularly: Rinse the guard with cool water every morning and evening. Use a toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently brush away any bacteria or plaque build-up.
• Store it correctly: Keep the guard in its protective case when not in use to prevent damage or loss.
• Avoid heat: Do not leave the guard in direct sunlight or hot water, as this can cause distortion or warping of the material.

Mouthguards should be replaced if they become damaged or no longer fit comfortably. Because children’s mouths continue to grow and change, periodic evaluation helps ensure the best fit and protection.

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