3 Reasons to get a Mouth Guard

At Dental Ben’s, we focus on preventive care which means doing everything we can to keep our patients’ teeth and gums healthy as well as prevent dental emergencies. We suggest routine visits with Dr. Cooperman who will check the overall health of your teeth and will suggest the most efficient ways to fight plaque and tartar and avoid cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and more. Dr. Cooperman may also suggest the use of a mouth guard which may be greatly beneficial for the following reasons:

Protection Against Sports Injuries

With spring comes warmer weather in AZ and a new sports season! Many people are unaware of how important it is to use a mouth guard during sports. The American Dental Association estimates that mouth guards prevent more than 200,000 oral injuries each year. “Mouth guards help cushion blows that might otherwise cause broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face or jaw. It is believed that they may reduce the severity and incidence of concussions.” – ADA. So when you are getting ready or getting your children ready for sports, besides ensuring they are wearing the required protective gear, make sure they pop their mouth guard in too as it is just as important!

Protection from Grinding or Clenching

During times of stress or anxiety many people may find themselves to be grinding or clenching their teeth while they sleep. This can have not only an effect on the health of your teeth but also trigger other symptoms such as earaches, jaw pain, and headaches. In cases such as these, Dr. Cooperman will suggest the use of a mouth guard. The aim of the mouth guard is to protect your teeth and prevent clenching while holding your jaw in a more relaxed position.

Reduce Snoring and Relieve Obstructive Sleep Apnea

If snoring has become the norm, you might want to consider the use of a mouth guard. Snoring is caused by airflow squeezing through the narrowed airway space. This can get worse with age. There are different treatments available including the use of a mouth guard to position your tongue and soft palate and keep your airway open.

Snoring is also characteristic of obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition in which breathing stops involuntarily for brief periods of time during sleep. The flow of air stops because airway space in the area of the throat is too narrow. A dental device such as a mouth guard may help keep the lower jaw positioned forward which can aid having proper airflow. Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that requires prompt treatment.

There are a few types of mouth guards available, but a custom-made mouth guard is considered by many to be the most protective option. Schedule an appointment at Dental Ben’s to discuss whether a mouth guard could be the right solution for you and get a custom mouth guard made asap!

‍