Mouthguards in Burtonsville, MD

What are the types of dental mouthguards?

There are three main types of mouthguards:

• Stock mouthguards are pre-formed, inexpensive and available at sporting goods stores, but they can’t be adjusted, often feel bulky, and offer minimal protection.
• Boil-and-bite mouthguards are also store-bought but provide a better fit. They’re softened in hot water, then molded to your teeth.
• Custom-fitted mouthguards are made by a dentist using a mold of your teeth. They offer the best fit, comfort and protection.

What are options for treating TMJ?

TMJ is a disorder that causes jaw or neck pain, clicking sounds when opening or closing the mouth, and limited jaw movement.

Relief methods include wearing a night guard, avoiding sudden jaw movements, icing to reduce inflammation, eating soft foods and using relaxation or light stretching to ease jaw tension.

Why are mouthguards important in sports?

Wearing a mouthguard during sports helps distribute impact across all teeth, reducing the risk of dislodged teeth. It also protects soft tissues, prevents fractures and may lower concussion risk by absorbing shock between the jaws and skull.

How do I clean my mouthguard?

Clean your mouthguard daily to prevent bacteria buildup, bad breath and infections. The easiest method is to clean it when brushing your teeth—rinse with cool water, add a bit of toothpaste and gently brush. You can also soak it for 30 minutes in diluted mouthwash.