Protect Your Teeth with a Mouth Guard

Las Vegas Mouth Guard UsesPatients who grind or clench their teeth while they sleep probably don’t get much rest. Repeated clenching and grinding of a patient’s teeth can lead to excessive wear and tear, damage to the tooth’s enamel or nerve structure, and temporomandibular disorders, such as TMJ disorder. At Jason L. Downey, DDS Dentistry in Las Vegas, mouth guards can provide a comfortable solution for patients suffering from tooth clenching, grinding, and other symptoms of TMJ disorder.Cosmetic dentist Jason L. Downey and his expert staff are well-equipped to create custom-fitted mouth guards for patients suffering from TMJ disorder.

What Are Mouth Guards?

Mouth guards are protective coverings worn in the mouth to protect the teeth from damage. They are a relatively inexpensive solution for patients with biting, clenching, and grinding problems. Patients who engage in physical contact sports, such as boxing, football, and hockey, may also want to consider wearing a mouth guard to protect their teeth.

Although generic mouth guards are sold at many local drugstores, pharmacies, and sporting goods stores, most dentists do not recommend these stock products as they aren’t custom-fitted and therefore do not adequately alleviate or address the patient’s issues. Many stock mouth guards are so bulky and uncomfortable that the patient often finds it hard to breathe while wearing such a device. Thankfully, cosmetic dentists such as We have years of experience in making custom-fitted mouth guards. These customized mouth guards are generally made for the patient’s upper teeth, and worn overnight (or during a sporting event for athletes). A properly-fitted mouth guard often provides relief to patients suffering from TMJ related symptoms, and provides protection to athletes during sporting events.

Getting a Customized Mouth Guard

At Jason L. Downey, DDS Dentistry, getting a custom-fitted mouth guard is a breeze. A consultation with Dr. Downey will help the dentists determine whether a mouth guard will properly address the patient’s concerns. Patients with pre-existing orthodontics or dental work need not worry; the dentist will find a customized solution for each patient’s individual needs. Next, the dentist will take an impression or mold of the patient’s teeth. This impression will then be shipped off to a lab for customization. Once the customized mouth guard arrives back at the office, the dentist will have the patient come in to try it on. After ensuring that the mouth guard fits properly, the patient can then use his or her mouth guard whenever necessary! Many patients are pleased with the level of comfort, relief, and protection provided by continuous use of their mouth guard.

While mouth guards can protect teeth and help prevent future damage, pre-existing tooth damage from TMJ disorder, grinding, or a sporting injury may require additional dental work. Patients that need to have teeth extracted may want to considerdental implants, which are also offered at Jason L. Downey, DDS Dentistry.

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Custom-fitted mouth guards are comfortable, easy to maintain, and allow patients to rest assured that their teeth are being protected. If you are interested in getting a custom-fitted mouth guard,contact the professional team at Jason L. Downey, DDS Dentistry. Dr. Downey is ready to help you protect your smile!