Do you enjoy playing sports ? We love sports too, but we are also aware of the danger that certain sports can be to our teeth.
Taking care of your teeth doesn’t mean just brushing and flossing — it means protecting them at all times, particularly when playing sports.
Mouth protectors, also known as mouthguards, typically cover the upper teeth and can help cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth.
Mouthguards can also reduce the risk of teeth getting chipped or knocked out during play or practice and help protect the teeth, lips, tongue, face and jaw.
Mouthguards are recommended for children and adults who plays sports or participate in recreational activities that could result in a blow to the mouth.
A splint is a guard that is worn at certain times of the day, usually at night, to reduce the amount of pressure from grinding.
Splints are designed to fit over the teeth. They prevent the upper and lower teeth from coming together. This makes it difficult for you to grind or clench your teeth. These devices take pressure off the jaw joints and muscles so they can relax and heal.
If your dentist thinks a splint would help you, he or she will determine when you should wear it (during the day or at night) and for how long.
A splint should never be worn so long that it changes your bite. If a splint causes or increases your pain, stop using it and contact your doctor.