Generic gum shields do not provide the same level of teeth protection as mouthguards tailored specifically for you. With bruxism, a night guard might be helpful (teeth grinding). Children and adults alike should wear them while participating in contact sports and activities like motorcycle riding.
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Who might require a gum shield?
It might be suggested by your doctor if you or your child:
- suffers from teeth grinding (bruxism).
- plays a contact sport, such as soccer, lacrosse, hockey, basketball, or football, which increases the chance of being hit in the face.
- participates in noncontact sports or pursuits that carry a high fall risk, such as riding, gymnastics, or ice skating.
What kinds of gum shields are there?
Mouthguards can be divided into two primary categories: those designed to protect teeth from damage caused by sports or other athletic activities, and those designed for those who brux or grind their teeth.
A few examples of gum shields are:
Custom-made: it comfortably fits your teeth and is made by your dentist using a mold of your teeth. We will create a mouthguard precisely for you, whether it be to use at night if you grind your teeth or to protect your teeth from injury during athletic activity. The best protection is provided by a personalized mouth guard that has been fitted by your dentist.
Boil-and-Bite: You may customize these thermoplastic gum shields to fit your teeth at home. By soaking the mouthguard in warm water (not boiling), you can soften it. It is then placed in your mouth and pressed against the front teeth and molars using your fingers. You bite down for around 20 seconds when the mouthguard feels like it is in the proper position. The device is then taken out and run through the cool water. These processes can be repeated to reshape the mouthguard for the ideal fit.
Various other movable over-the-counter gum shields: Sliding components of adjustable night guards frequently lie between your teeth while you sleep.
Stock: These universal mouthguards are ready to wear and are available in stock. They rarely fit well because they aren’t customized for your teeth. Their size and ill-fittingness might make breathing challenging. Of all varieties, stock mouthguards provide the least amount of protection.
Upkeep of your gum shield
- Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste after each use.
- When not in use, keep it in its case for protection.
- Since gum shields are made of plastic, keep them away from the sun and extremely hot water to prevent melting and deforming.
- Be sure to replace your mouthguard on a regular basis to maintain proper oral hygiene as well as to keep it current as your teeth inevitably shift and change position.
A robust, long-lasting mouthguard might last you years, but its longevity will obviously rely on how well you take care of it and whether your sporting activities subject it to damage. A mouthguard typically lasts between six months and a year. It’s crucial to get it replaced more frequently if your teeth are still erupting or moving so that it fits properly.
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