At Sunrise Family Dental in Naperville, IL, we often hear the same question: Are mouthguards really necessary? The answer is a resounding yes—especially if you want to protect more than just your teeth. Whether you’re dealing with teeth grinding, participating in sports, or navigating orthodontic treatment, a mouthguard can be one of your best dental investments.
What Is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a protective dental device made from soft, flexible materials that fits over your teeth and gums. Its primary purpose is to prevent dental injuries, but it can also alleviate jaw pain, reduce snoring, and protect dental work like crowns or braces.
There are various types of mouthguards including:
- Custom mouthguards
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards
- Night mouthguards for teeth grinding
- Mouthguards for braces
Why Use a Mouthguard? More Than Just Injury Prevention
- Protection from Sports-Related Injuries: Athletes of all ages benefit from mouthguards. From contact sports like football and boxing to recreational activities like skateboarding and mountain biking, a custom mouthguard acts as a shock absorber, protecting not only your teeth but also your jaw and soft tissues from trauma.
- Relief from Bruxism: Do you grind your teeth at night? You’re not alone. A mouthguard for teeth grinding, also known as a night mouthguard, creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, reducing wear, tension, and jaw discomfort. Over time, this can prevent cracked teeth, headaches,disorders.
Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Mouthguards
While store-bought mouthguards may seem convenient, they often provide a poor fit and minimal protection. At Sunrise Family Dental, we recommend custom mouthguards tailored to your bite. These offer superior comfort, durability, and effectiveness—especially for long-term use or during orthodontic treatment.
Mouthguard Care Tips: Keep It Clean, Keep It Safe
How to Clean a Mouthguard:
- Rinse thoroughly after each use with cool water.
- Brush gently using a toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or mild soap.
- Soak occasionally in mouthwash or a denture cleaner for deep sanitization.
How Can I Clean My Mouthguard Daily?: Use a gentle brush and rinse every morning. Keep it in a ventilated container when not in use to avoid bacterial buildup.
How to Wash a Mouthguard Properly: Avoid hot water, as it can warp the shape—especially with non-custom models. Stick with cool water, mild soap, or specialized cleaning tablets for the best results.
When Should You Replace Your Mouthguard?
Even the best custom mouthguard doesn’t last forever. Look out for:
- Visible wear or cracks
- Discomfort or looseness
- Bad odors that linger after cleaning
If your mouthguard isn’t fitting snugly, schedule a visit to Sunrise Family Dental to have it replaced.
Protect Your Smile with a Custom Mouthguard in Naperville, IL
Your smile is one of your greatest assets—and it deserves the best protection possible. Whether you’re a dedicated athlete, someone who grinds their teeth at night a condition known as bruxism, or undergoing orthodontic treatment, a professionally made mouthguard is essential. At Sunrise Family Dental in Naperville, IL, we specialize in custom mouthguards tailored to fit your unique bite and lifestyle.
Unlike over-the-counter options, our custom-fitted mouthguards are crafted for maximum comfort, durability, and protection. They help absorb impact during sports, prevent enamel wear caused by grinding, and protect orthodontic appliances.
Invest in your dental health with a solution that fits perfectly, feels comfortable, and offers reliable, long-lasting defense. Book your consultation today to learn more about how our night mouthguards, sports mouthguards, and mouthguards for braces can safeguard your smile every day and night.
