Mouth Guards

Professional mouth guards can go a long way toward protecting the appearance and health of your teeth. At Seattle Crown Hill Dental, residents of Seattle, Washington, have access to customized mouth guards that are both effective and comfortable. To learn more about personalized mouth guards, call the office or request an appointment online today. 

What are mouth guards?

Mouth guards are removable dental devices that protect your teeth from harm. Guards worn during the day usually focus on creating a barrier between upper and lower teeth and are intended to be worn during athletic pursuits. 

If you enjoy boxing, hockey, football, or other sports, a custom mouth guard provides a degree of cushion between your upper and lower teeth and also protects the front of your teeth from damage in the event of an impact. 

Night guards protect your teeth while you sleep. Many people grind their teeth during sleep — a condition called bruxism. The grinding can damage your teeth and place undue pressure on your jaw joints. A night guard ensures your upper and lower teeth don't make contact throughout the night. 

How do I know if a mouth guard is right for me?

If you participate in any sports or fitness pursuit that poses a risk of dental damage, a mouth guard is an important part of your equipment list. Custom guards are comfortable to wear, and it doesn’t take long before putting your mouth guard in is as routine as strapping on padding or a helmet. 

Your Seattle Crown Hill Dental dentist can examine your teeth to determine if there are signs of nighttime teeth grinding. If you routinely wake with jaw pain or experience headaches during the day, you may be grinding your teeth while you sleep. A night guard provides immediate protection and can prevent serious dental damage. 

Are over-the-counter mouth guards effective?

You can purchase mouth guards online and in some stores. These options usually come in only a couple of sizes and require you to boil them and then bite down on them to try and create a better fit. 

Everyone’s mouth is uniquely sized and shaped. Over-the-counter mouth guards offer a one-size-fits-most approach but cannot match the fit available from a custom mouth guard. When your device is uncomfortable, you probably won't wear it regularly. 

Seattle Crown Hill Dental offers customized mouth guards designed to perfectly align with your teeth and mouth structures. When you’re ready to explore these options in greater detail, call the office or book an appointment online today.