Protect Your Teeth and Smile

Mouthguards have become an essential part of dental care. Whether you are an athlete or someone who grinds their teeth at night, a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from damage. At River Place Dental, our Austin, TX dentist, Dr. Jennifer Zatopek, offers custom mouthguards that are tailored to fit your mouth perfectly and provide the maximum protection.

If you’re in need of a custom mouthguard, contact our Austin dental office by calling (512) 795-2800. 

What are Custom Mouthguards?

Custom mouthguards are dental appliances designed to fit perfectly in your mouth, providing maximum protection to your teeth and gums. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, custom mouthguards are created using impressions of your teeth, ensuring a perfect fit and maximum comfort.

Reasons for Mouthguards

There are several reasons to wear a mouthguard:

• Sports: Mouthguards are essential for anyone playing contact sports, like football, hockey, basketball, and boxing.
• Teeth Grinding: Nighttime teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can cause significant damage to your teeth and gums. A mouthguard can help protect your teeth and jaw from the effects of bruxism.
• Dental Work: If you have had dental work done, like braces or a bridge, a mouthguard can help protect your investment and prevent damage.

Benefits of Custom Mouthguards

Custom mouthguards offer several benefits, including:

• Perfect Fit: Custom mouthguards are designed to fit perfectly in your mouth, providing maximum protection and comfort.
• Increased Protection: Custom mouthguards offer better protection than over-the-counter mouthguards, reducing the risk of injury.
• Improved Performance: Mouthguards can improve your breathing and reduce the risk of injury, allowing you to perform better in sports.
• Long-Lasting: Custom mouthguards are built to last and can be used for years with proper care.

How the Procedure Works

The process of getting a custom mouthguard is simple and painless. First, your Austin dentist will take an impression of your teeth to create a mold. The mold is used to create a custom mouthguard that fits perfectly in your mouth. Once the mouthguard is ready, our dentist will ensure that it fits properly and comfortably.

How to Take Care of Mouthguards

To ensure the longevity of your custom mouthguard, it’s important to take proper care of it. Here are some tips:

• Clean Your Mouthguard: Rinse your mouthguard with water after each use and clean it with a toothbrush and toothpaste at least once a week.
• Store Properly: Store your mouthguard in a protective case to prevent damage.
• Keep Away from Heat: Don’t expose your mouthguard to heat, as it can cause it to warp or lose its shape.
• Regular Checkups: Bring your mouthguard to your regular dental checkups, so Dr. Zatopek can ensure that it still fits properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a custom mouthguard?

Yes, a custom mouthguard can be very beneficial if you play contact sports, grind your teeth at night, or have dental work done. Contact sports like football, basketball, and hockey can put your teeth at risk of getting damaged or knocked out. A custom mouthguard can help protect your teeth and gums from such injuries. Similarly, grinding your teeth at night can not only cause damage to your teeth but also lead to headaches and jaw pain.

How long do custom mouthguards last?

Custom mouthguards can last for years with proper care. It is essential to clean them regularly with a toothbrush and toothpaste or a mild soap solution. You should also store them in a clean, dry case to keep them safe from damage and bacteria.

Can I wear a mouthguard with braces?

Yes, you can wear a custom mouthguard with braces. In fact, it is highly recommended to wear one as it can help protect your braces and teeth from damage. A custom mouthguard can be designed to fit comfortably over your braces, providing an additional layer of protection.

How much does a custom mouthguard cost?

The cost of a custom mouthguard can vary depending on the type of mouthguard and your insurance coverage. In general, a custom mouthguard is more expensive than a boil-and-bite mouthguard that you can buy at a store. However, a custom mouthguard is designed to fit your mouth perfectly and provide maximum protection. Your dentist can give you an estimate of the cost based on your specific needs and insurance coverage.

Shield Your Smile with Custom Mouthguards at River Place Dental

Custom mouthguards are an essential part of dental care. They offer protection for your teeth and gums, improve performance, and are built to last. At River Place Dental, we provide custom mouthguards that are tailored to fit your mouth perfectly. Contact our Austin, TX dental office today by calling (512) 795-2800 to schedule an appointment and protect your smile.

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