A custom mouth guard is like a protective blanket for your teeth. It shields them from getting hurt when you play sports or from damage caused by grinding your teeth at night. A dentist makes it specially for you, so it fits your mouth perfectly and does its job really well.
What Exactly Is a Custom Mouth Guard?
A mouth guard in Calgary is a thin plastic device that covers your teeth. Think of it as a safety helmet, but for your mouth. Your dentist takes a mould of your teeth, kind of like making a copy, and then a special lab creates your guard using that exact shape. This way, it fits you perfectly—not loose, not tight, just right.
The whole thing is pretty easy. You visit your dentist, they make an impression of your teeth, and then you come back and pick up your finished guard. That’s it. You’re protected.
How Does It Actually Keep Your Teeth Safe?
Your teeth face danger in different ways every single day. Let’s look at how a mouth guard near you protects them.
When You Play Sports
Playing hockey, football, basketball, or any contact sport puts your teeth at risk. One hit to the face could break a tooth or even knock it out completely. A custom mouth guard absorbs that hit. Instead of your tooth taking the full impact, the guard takes it. Your teeth stay safe and sound. Athletes who wear guards rarely lose teeth or break them. That’s a huge deal because fixing a broken tooth can cost a lot of money.
When You Grind Your Teeth at Night
Many people grind their teeth while they sleep. They don’t even know they’re doing it. Over time, this grinding wears down your teeth like sandpaper wearing down wood. A dentist in Calgary can tell if you’re grinding your teeth by looking at the wear patterns. If you are, a custom guard worn at night stops this problem. It sits between your upper and lower teeth and protects them from grinding against each other all night long.
When Your Jaw Gets Tight
Some people clench their jaw really tight, especially when they’re stressed or concentrating hard. This puts enormous pressure on your teeth and jaw muscles. A custom mouth guard relaxes these muscles and protects your teeth from this constant squeezing pressure. Many people wake up with less jaw pain and headaches after wearing a guard at night.
Why Custom Guards Beat Store-Bought Ones
You’ve probably seen mouth guards for sale at drugstores. They’re cheaper, but they don’t work nearly as well. Here’s why.
Store-bought guards are thick and bulky. They don’t fit your mouth right, so they slip around when you talk or exercise. You’re constantly pushing them back into place. This is annoying and also means they’re not protecting you properly because they keep moving.
A custom guard made just for you is completely different. It’s thinner because it doesn’t need to be thick to fit right. It stays exactly where it should be without moving. You forget you’re even wearing it. Better fit means better protection and a guard that lasts much longer.
What Materials Are Used to Make Your Guard?
Your dentist uses different materials depending on what you need the guard for. Here are the main types:
Soft Materials—These are flexible and comfortable. They’re perfect if you grind your teeth at night and want something gentle to wear while sleeping.
Hard Materials—These are tougher and more durable. Athletes usually get these because they provide stronger protection against impact.
Combination Materials—Some guards have a soft outer layer and a harder inner layer. This gives you comfort plus strength.
Your dentist will talk to you about which material works best for your situation.
How to Keep Your Guard in Good Shape
Your custom guard is an investment, so take care of it.
- Clean it with a soft toothbrush and gentle soap after you wear it
- Store it in a clean case or container.
- Don’t leave it where there’s too much heat, such as in a hot car or in the sun, as it can become bent.
- Don’t chew it or try to fix it by yourself.
- Make sure your dentist sees you regularly to ensure proper fit.
A guard that’s well cared for can last 3 to 5 years before you need a new one.
Why Going to a Real Dentist Matters
When you get a mouth guard from a dental clinic near you, you’re getting expert help. Your dentist knows exactly what your teeth and jaw need. They take precise measurements so your guard fits perfectly. They also check on it during regular visits to make sure it’s working properly and protecting you the way it should.
This professional approach makes a real difference. Your guard will protect you better, feel more comfortable, and last longer than anything you could buy without professional help.
Give Your Teeth the Protection They Need
Generally, a tailored guard from Beyond Dental only costs you a couple of hundred dollars, and you need to buy it only once or twice in your life. A broken tooth or other dental damage can cost more than that to fix. Taking preventive measures now can save you money, pain, and worry. The value of a smile is priceless. Our dental clinic has a team of professional dentists who listen to your concerns and help you make a customized mouth guard as per your history and needs. Book your consultation now to buy a customized mouth guard and help us protect your teeth.
Looking for a custom mouth guard? Get directions to Beyond Dental and visit our dental clinic for personalized mouth guard care and teeth protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a custom mouth guard protect your teeth?
It shields your teeth from getting hit during sports and stops damage from grinding or jaw clenching at night.
Who should wear a custom mouth guard?
Anyone who plays contact sports, grinds their teeth, or clenches their jaw should consider wearing one.
How long does a custom mouth guard last?
With good care, your guard will protect you for about 3 to 5 years before you need to replace it.
How much does a custom mouth guard for teeth protection in Calgary cost?
The cost is usually between $300 and $800, and many insurance plans help pay for part of it.