Custom Mouth Guard
Glendale, AZ

Mouth guards can be effective in protecting teeth from grinding, which is also known as bruxism. When you wear a mouthguard, it creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from coming into contact with each other and reducing the amount of damage caused by grinding.

However, it’s important to note that not all mouth guards are designed for this purpose. Boil-and-bite mouth guards that are commonly found in sports stores may not provide adequate protection for teeth grinding, as they are not specifically designed for this purpose. Instead, custom-made night guards, which are designed to fit your teeth precisely, are typically recommended for those who grind their teeth at night.

A night guard can also help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with teeth grinding, such as headaches, jaw pain, and tooth sensitivity. If you suspect that you are grinding your teeth, you should give Arrowhead Ranch Dentistry a call. Dr. Dockstader and Dr. Nguyen can evaluate your teeth and recommend the best course of treatment.

Mouth guards and night guards can be an effective treatment option for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder – a condition that affects the joints and muscles that control jaw movement. TMJ disorder can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, as well as headaches, ear pain, and other symptoms.

Mouth guards for TMJ disorder are typically designed to reposition the jaw to help alleviate pain and other symptoms. They work by placing the jaw in a more relaxed and natural position, which can reduce stress on the joints and muscles that control jaw movement.

There are two main types of mouth guards that are used to treat TMJ disorder: soft mouth guards and hard acrylic mouth guards. Soft mouth guards are made of a pliable material that conforms to the shape of the teeth and jaw. They are typically used to provide cushioning and support for the jaw, reducing pressure and stress on the TMJ. Hard acrylic mouth guards are custom-made to fit the patient’s teeth and jaw and are designed to reposition the jaw in a more comfortable position.

Mouth guards and night guards are often used in conjunction with other treatments for TMJ disorder, such as physical therapy, medication, and stress management techniques. Dr. Dockstader and Dr. Nguyen can evaluate your TMJ symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment for your needs.

The coverage for a mouthguard used to treat TMJ disorder (TMD) will depend on your specific health insurance plan. Some health insurance plans may cover the cost of a mouthguard for TMD, while others may not.

In some cases, a mouthguard for TMD may be covered under your dental insurance plan rather than your medical insurance plan. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to determine what your plan covers and what out-of-pocket expenses you may be responsible for.

Additionally, the extent of your coverage may depend on the severity of your TMD symptoms and the specific treatment plan recommended. In some cases, a mouthguard may be one component of a larger treatment plan for TMD, which may include physical therapy, medication, and other interventions.

Before undergoing any treatment for TMD, it’s important to check with your insurance provider and understand your coverage and any associated costs. Dr. Dockstader and Dr. Nguyen can also help you navigate insurance coverage and recommend the best treatment plan for your needs.

If you have a custom mouthguard or night guard, it is essential to keep it clean to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other harmful substances that could affect your oral health. Cleaning your custom mouthguard is a simple process that can be done at home.

Here’s how to clean night guards and mouth guards:

1. Rinse the custom mouth guard thoroughly with cold water immediately after use to remove any debris or saliva.
2. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste to gently scrub the night guard, taking care not to damage it.
3. Rinse the custom mouth guard again with cold water and inspect it for any signs of damage or wear.
4. If you notice any buildup or discoloration, you can soak the custom mouth guard in a solution of equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide for 30 minutes. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly with cold water after soaking.
5. Store your custom mouth guard in a clean place, preferably in a case that allows for air circulation.
   
   

By following these simple steps, you can keep your custom mouthguard or night guard clean and well-maintained, helping to ensure that it provides effective protection for your teeth and gums.

A night guard is a dental appliance that is designed to be worn while sleeping to protect the teeth and jaws from the effects of grinding or clenching. There are two main types of night guards: hard and soft.

The primary difference between a hard and soft night guard lies in the material they are made from. Hard night guards are made of a dense, rigid acrylic material that is designed to withstand the force of teeth grinding and provide maximum protection to the teeth. Soft night guards, on the other hand, are made from a more pliable material, such as silicone or rubber, that can be more comfortable to wear and may provide a better fit for people with a less severe teeth grinding or clenching habit.

While hard night guards may offer more protection against teeth grinding, they can also be more bulky and uncomfortable to wear, especially for people who have sensitive teeth or jaws. Soft night guards may be a better choice for people who have a milder teeth grinding habit or who have trouble adjusting to the sensation of wearing a night guard.

Ultimately, the choice between a hard and soft night guard depends on individual needs and preferences. Dr. Dockstader and Dr. Nguyen can help you determine which type of night guard is right for you based on your specific situation and the severity of your teeth grinding or clenching habit.