When it comes to oral health, many people focus on routine dental care like brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups. However, there’s one crucial aspect of dental health that often goes overlooked – mouthguards. While we often associate this preventive dentistry solution with contact sports, the benefits of mouthguards extend far beyond the playing field.
Whether you want to protect your smile after cosmetic dentistry or during athletic activities, mouthguards are an ideal way to prevent accidental damage. Learn more about these protective devices by scheduling a consultation at Texas Choice Dental in Humble, TX. Contact our team today at (281) 972-8000.
Mouthguards may be a necessary and worthwhile investment for your dental health. Here are five reasons to consider protecting your smile with a protective device.
Protection During Sports and Physical Activities
Whether you’re an avid football player, a basketball enthusiast, or even a cyclist, accidents can happen. That’s why experts estimate that around 15 million people in the United States experience sports-related dental injuries every year.
A mouthguard acts like a shock absorber, helping prevent impact injuries that can lead to:
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Lip injuries
- Jaw fractures
By acting as a barrier between teeth, mouthguards help you avoid pain and costly damage.
Safeguard Against Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching
Teeth grinding and jaw clenching can create just as much damage as dental trauma. If left unaddressed, this condition (medically termed bruxism) can lead to a range of dental issues, including:
- Cracks and fractures
- Worn-down dental enamel
- Jaw pain and dysfunction
- Headaches
- Neck, shoulder, and back pain
A mouthguard can provide a soft barrier between dental contacts, reducing the damaging effects of grinding and clenching.
Prevention of Oral Injuries in Children
Children, with their boundless energy and adventurous spirits, are particularly prone to oral injuries. Whether they’re playing sports or simply enjoying active play, the risk of accidents is higher.
Juvenile mouthguards can provide an extra layer of protection for your little one’s developing teeth, reducing the likelihood of fractures or permanent damage.
Orthodontic Appliance Protection
Individuals with braces or other orthodontic appliances are vulnerable to injuries. Sudden impact to the face or mouth can damage both the appliance and the surrounding teeth.
Luckily, dentists can design protective devices to fit securely over orthodontia, reducing the risk of breakage or secondary injuries.
Preserving Cosmetic Dentistry Work
If you’ve invested in cosmetic dentistry procedures (such as veneers, crowns, or bridges) protecting your smile becomes even more important. A protective oral device acts as a shield, preserving the integrity of these cosmetic enhancements.
Without proper protection, accidental impacts or teeth grinding could compromise the longevity and appearance of these costly dental treatments. So, a mouthguard is a cost-effective way to preserve your investment.
Protect Your Smile With Mouthguards in Humble, TX
While mouthguards may seem like a specialty item, their effect on dental health is substantial. From shielding against sports-related injuries to preventing the consequences of teeth grinding, these devices play a multifaceted role in preserving your oral well-being. Discuss mouthguards with top-rated dentists in Humble, TX, today. Contact Texas Choice Dental online or at (281) 972-8000 to learn more!
