Mouthguards

A mouthguard is a protective oral appliance worn over your teeth. It acts as a barrier, preventing the upper and lower teeth from touching each other. This helps prevent damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw joints. It also prevents injuries such as chipped or broken teeth or cuts to the lips and tongue. 

Mouthguards are most commonly used by athletes playing contact sports. However, there are many other reasons you may require a mouthguard. For example, if you grind your teeth at night, you may benefit from wearing a nightguard to protect your teeth from the damage of grinding. If you suffer from TMJ disorder, our dentist at J. Whitley Wills, DDS, may recommend a nightguard to prevent clenching and grinding while sleeping. 

Types of Mouthguards

Stock Mouthguards

These mouthguards are pre-formed and can be purchased at most sporting goods stores. However, since they are not customized to fit your mouth, they may not fit properly or offer adequate protection. 

Boil-And-Bite Mouthguards

These mouthguards are softened in boiling water and then placed in your mouth to mold to your teeth. While they are more comfortable than stock mouthguards, they still don’t offer the best protection and fit. 

Custom-Made Mouthguards

These mouthguards are custom-made by our dentist in Memphis, TN, from impressions of your mouth. They will fit your mouth perfectly and provide the most comfort and protection. 

The Benefits of Mouthguards

• Mouthguards in Memphis, TN, provide a protective barrier for your teeth, preventing injuries such as chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth caused by playing sports, engaging in physical activities, or nighttime teeth grinding. 
• When playing contact sports or engaging in physical activities, mouthguards reduce the risk of oral injuries, including broken or fractured teeth, lip and cheek injuries, and injuries to the tongue and jaw. 
• Well-fitted mouthguards can help absorb shock and reduce the risk of concussions by providing cushioning for the jaw and head during impact. 
• Mouthguards can alleviate symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders by providing support and preventing excessive jaw clenching or teeth grinding. 
• Custom-made nightguards effectively prevent damage caused by teeth grinding and clenching during sleep, including worn-down teeth, headaches, jaw pain, and disrupted sleep. 
• Investing in a mouthguard is a cost-effective way to prevent dental injuries and related expenses, such as dental repairs, orthodontic relapse, or the management of oral health issues. 
• Mouthguards protect tooth enamel from wear and damage, preserving the natural tooth structure and preventing the need for extensive dental work. 

Mouthguards play a vital role in protecting oral health, preventing injuries, and improving overall quality of life for individuals participating in sports activities or dealing with teeth grinding and related conditions. For the best care, visit J. Whitley Wills, DDS, at 59 S Idlewild St., Memphis, TN 38104, or call (901) 726-9525.