Mouthguards
Mouthguards and night guards protect your smile by preventing tooth damage from sports impacts or nighttime grinding. They reduce pain, wear, and costly repairs, helping you sleep comfortably, play confidently, and maintain long-term oral health with personalized, dentist-recommended solutions available.
Mouthguards and Night Guards in Glendale, WI
Mouthguards and night guards are custom dental appliances designed to protect your teeth and jaw. Mouthguards are typically worn during sports or physical activity to cushion impacts and help prevent chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth. Night guards are worn while sleeping and are commonly used to treat teeth grinding (bruxism) and jaw clenching.
Both devices work by creating a protective barrier that absorbs pressure and reduces strain on teeth, muscles, and joints. They can help relieve jaw pain, headaches, enamel wear, and TMJ-related discomfort, supporting long-term oral health and comfort.
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What types of mouthguards are available?
Stock Mouthguards
- Pre-formed and ready to wear right out of the package
- The least expensive option, often found in sporting goods stores
- Provide basic protection, but tend to fit loosely
- Can feel bulky and may make breathing or speaking difficult
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
- Softened in hot water, then molded to your teeth at home
- Offer a better fit than stock guards at a moderate price
- Commonly used by youth and recreational athletes
- Fit and comfort depend on proper molding
Custom Mouthguards
- Professionally made from dental impressions
- Best fit, comfort, and protection
- Ideal for athletes, teeth grinders, or TMJ concerns
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How is TMJ treated?
TMJ disorders are typically treated with a personalized, conservative approach focused on relieving pain and restoring normal jaw function. Treatment often begins with a thorough evaluation of your bite, jaw movement, and muscle health. Many patients find relief through custom oral appliances that reduce strain on the jaw joint. Physical therapy exercises, stress management, and lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding hard or chewy foods, can also be beneficial. In some cases, anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants are recommended. Surgery is rarely needed and usually considered only when other treatments haven’t provided relief.
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Why should mouthguards be worn when playing sports?
Mouthguards protect your teeth and jaw during sports and physical activities. Whether playing contact sports like football or basketball, or doing more recreational activities such as biking or skateboarding, a properly fitted mouthguard helps absorb impact and reduce the risk of broken teeth, jaw injuries, and cuts to the lips or tongue. Dental injuries can be painful, costly, and often permanent, but many are easily preventable with the proper protection. Wearing a mouthguard is a simple, affordable way to safeguard your oral health and keep you confidently focused on the game, not the risk of injury.
Could You Benefit From a Mouthguard or Night Guard?
If you're an athlete or struggle from issues like bruxism, a mouthguard or night guard may be an ideal option. Schedule a consultation today to learn more!
