At Kirkland Dental Excellence, we offer custom mouthguards designed to safeguard your teeth from potential damage. Your permanent teeth are irreplaceable, so take proactive steps to protect them. Maintaining strong and healthy teeth starts with proper oral care. So, stop Googling “mouthguards near me in Kirkland, Washington” and keep reading.
What Is a Dental Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a simple tool with a big job. It protects your teeth, gums, and jaw from injury, damage, or wear. Whether you play sports, grind your teeth at night, or struggle with snoring, Google “mouth piece near me”, find Kirkland Dental Excellence and find safety and comfort. They also support the work of orthodontists by protecting teeth and braces during treatment.
Types of Mouthguards
Mouthguards come in all shapes and sizes, each designed for specific needs if you are looking for high-quality mouthguards:
- Sports Mouth Guards: They can handle hits, kicks, and high-speed impacts during activities like football, hockey, or boxing. Think of them as helmets for your teeth.
- Night Guards: Perfect for those who grind or clench their teeth while sleeping. They cushion your teeth and help ease jaw tension, which makes mornings a lot less painful.
- Snoring and Sleep Apnea Guards: These help keep airways open, which reduces snoring and improves sleep quality. Your partner will thank you!
- Custom-Fitted Guards: These are made just for you by a dentist. They’re the most comfortable and effective option, fitting like a glove for your teeth.
- Stock or Boil-and-Bite Guards: Are found in stores. They are affordable but less precise. They get the job done for casual use but might not be as comfy as custom guards.
What Is a Mouthguard Used For?
A mouth guard is like the ultimate multitasker for your teeth which offers protection and relief in many situations. Here are its top uses:
- It shields teeth, gums, and jaws during contact sports like football, hockey, and boxing.
- Cushions teeth to prevent wear and jaw pain in teeth grinding and clenching (Bruxism).
- Keeps airways open to reduce snoring and helps a soundless sleep.
- Helps keep airways clear and improves breathing and sleep quality.
- Protects braces in Washington from damage and prevents cuts to lips or cheeks.
- Reduces tension and discomfort in jaw pain (TMJ Disorders).
- Provides a buffer for sensitive teeth during activities.
- Protects growing teeth and helps manage grinding habits.
Bruxism Mouthguard
You might be dealing with bruxism, also known as teeth grinding. A bruxism mouth guard can help save your teeth and soothe your sore jaw. It creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, stops the grinding, and prevents wear and tear. It also helps align your jaw, which can reduce tension and headaches.
Mouthguard for Clenching Teeth at Night
These guards act like a cushion and keep your teeth from pressing together too hard. They protect your enamel from wear and prevent the jaw pain that often comes with clenching. Think of it as a night shield for your smile: simple, effective, and surprisingly comfortable. Custom-made mouthguards fit snugly and don’t feel bulky, so you can sleep soundly without even noticing it’s there.
Mouthguard for Sleep Apnea
A sleep apnea mouth guard is specially designed to help treat this medical condition where your airway becomes blocked during sleep and might cause breathing to stop and restart. These guards are more advanced and often custom-made to address the specific needs of sleep apnea patients. So you can have better breathing, fewer disruptions, and keep your breathing steady.
Mouthguard for Snoring
These clever devices reposition your jaw or tongue to keep your airway open, cutting down on the vibrations that cause snoring. It’s perfect for people who snore but don’t have serious sleep disorders. At Kirkland Dental Excellence, we take pride in safeguarding your smile with exceptional care. Don’t put off protecting your smile and stop Googling “mouthguards near me in Kirkland” and read on to learn more.
How Expensive are Mouthguards?
The cost of mouthguards depends on the type and purpose. Over-the-counter options are affordable, but they offer a one-size-fits-all fit, which isn’t always comfortable. Boil-and-bite versions are slightly better and still budget-friendly, but they’re not perfect. Custom mouthguards are more expensive but worth the investment. While the price might vary, remember that a mouth guard can save you from expensive dental work later. Call us at (425) 827-2003 instead of Googling “Kirkland’s near me dental prices” to learn about the updated prices.
Are Mouthguards Covered by Dental Insurance?
The answer depends on your dental insurance plan. Some plans cover mouth guards, especially if they’re custom-fitted and for medical reasons like teeth grinding, clenching, or sleep apnea. For sports mouthguards, coverage is less common, with many insurance plans only covering around 10% to 20% of the cost, if at all. However, over-the-counter options are usually out-of-pocket expenses. Always check with your insurance provider.
How to Clean a Mouth Guard?
Keeping your mouthguard clean is vital for hygiene and durability. It not only keeps your mouth guard fresh but also helps prevent bacteria buildup. Here is how:
- Rinse it with cool water after each use.
- Use a soft toothbrush and mild soap to scrub it gently.
- Soak it in a specialized cleaner or denture solution weekly.
- Let it air-dry in a ventilated case to prevent mold or odor.
How Often Should You Wear a Mouthguard?
Skipping usage can lead to injuries or prolonged problems, so regular wear is a must.
- Wear it during all practices and games to stay protected.
- Use it every night for effective results.
- Consistency is key, so wear it whenever you sleep if you have Bruxism.
Do Mouthguards Prevent Concussions?
Mouthguards can’t prevent concussions entirely, but they do help reduce the risk of certain injuries. By cushioning your teeth and jaw, they can lower the force that travels to your head, which might lessen the severity of a blow. Here’s how different sports use them:
- A good football mouth guard absorbs impacts and keeps your teeth safe from tackles or accidental hits.
- Stress during competition can make athletes clench their teeth. A bruxism guard can protect against grinding caused by tension.
- The best boxing mouthguards cushion hard blows and stay secure during matches.
- Hockey players face high-speed pucks and intense contact. A mouth guard shields teeth from injuries on the ice.
- Lightweight and durable mouthguards designed for wrestling girls ensure safety without affecting performance.
Best Mouth Guard Near Me in Kirkland, Washington
At Kirkland Dental Excellence, we provide custom-fitted mouthguards for all needs. Whether you’re an athlete, a snorer, or a teeth grinder, we have you covered. So, stop Googling “mouthguards near me in Kirkland, Washington” and read on to learn more. We understand how important it is to protect your teeth safely and make your smile confident. Visit us online to schedule your consultation.
FAQs
A dental guard treats grinding and clenching, while a mouth guard also protects teeth during sports or sleep.
It depends on the type. Sports guards can be worn during activities, but night guards are designed only for sleeping.
No. A well-fitted mouth guard stays in place without biting down.
Rinse it with cool water after each use, brush it gently with soap or toothpaste, and let it air dry in a clean case.
No, you should remove your mouthguard before eating to avoid damaging it or making it uncomfortable.