Safeguard Your Smile: The Essential Guide to Custom Mouthguards for Sports and Sleep
Whether you’re gearing up for a high-contact sport or waking up with jaw pain from teeth grinding, custom mouthguards from Warwick Valley Dental offer the protection your smile needs. Designed for comfort, durability, and prevention, our custom sports and night guards help patients of all ages safeguard their teeth from damage, day or night.
What is the difference between a sports mouthguard and a night guard?
While both guards are protective, their purposes and designs are quite different. A sports mouthguard is typically worn during physical activity to prevent injuries caused by impact — think of it as a shield for your teeth, lips, and jaw. On the other hand, a night guard is worn while sleeping and is specially designed to protect your teeth from the effects of bruxism (teeth grinding) or clenching. The materials and construction also vary: sports guards are often thicker and more shock-absorbent, while night guards are thinner and designed for prolonged overnight use.
Do I really need a custom mouthguard for sports?
Absolutely. While store-bought “boil and bite” options are readily available, they often lack the fit, comfort, and protection of a professionally made guard. At Warwick Valley Dental, we create custom sports mouthguards that contour precisely to your teeth and gums, offering better retention and enhanced protection. This is especially important for athletes in Warwick, New York — including teens and children — to help avoid dental trauma, chipped teeth, and even concussions during sports like football, soccer, lacrosse, and hockey.
Can a night guard prevent damage from clenching or grinding while sleeping?
Yes, a professionally made night guard is one of the most effective ways to prevent damage from bruxism. Chronic grinding and clenching can lead to worn enamel, tooth fractures, gum recession, and even TMJ disorders. A custom-fit night guard from Warwick Valley Dental helps cushion the teeth and reduce the stress placed on your jaw and temporomandibular joints, protecting your long-term oral health and improving sleep quality.
How long do sports and nightguards last with regular use?
With proper care, most custom mouthguards can last 1 to 5 years. However, durability depends on usage frequency, nighttime grinding intensity, and whether the guard is cleaned and stored properly. Due to changes in tooth and jaw structure, more frequent replacements may be necessary for growing children and teens.
How do I care for and clean my custom mouthguard properly?
After each use, rinse your mouthguard with cool water. Clean it daily using a soft toothbrush, mild soap, or non-alcoholic mouth rinse. Avoid using hot water, which can warp the material. Store your guard in a ventilated container to keep it dry and protected. Bring it to your regular dental checkups so we can inspect it for wear or damage.
Protect your teeth with a custom-fit guard that lasts. Call Warwick Valley Dental at (845) 683-5668 to schedule your personalized consultation. Your smile deserves the best defense, whether asleep or on the move.
