What are mouth guards?
A mouth guard is a protective device designed to protect your teeth, gums and mouth from injury. It works by acting as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth while also helping to distribute direct impact exerted on the teeth during a combat or contact sport.
Besides acting as a protective barrier during physical activity, there are two other types of mouthguards, which are night guards (or dental guards) and clear retainers. Night guards are used to protect your teeth from teeth grinding, while retainers are used after dental treatments like braces to keep your teeth aligned.
When should I use a mouth guard?
If you regularly engage in physical activities or experience any of the following conditions, the use of a mouth guard is advised.
1) Sport activities
If you’re actively participating in any type of contact or combat sports, such as football, basketball, or martial arts, the external impact from these activities can cause tooth damage and injury to the gums and jaw.
Using a mouth guard to help protect your teeth during contact sports is recommended.
2) Bruxism (teeth grinding)
This condition causes an individual to grind or clench their teeth unconsciously while sleeping or awake (awake bruxism), especially if they are under stress.
Over time, this behaviour can erode the protective layer of the natural teeth (enamel) and can range from mild bruxism, moderate bruxism, to severe bruxism.
3) Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
A TMJ disorder is a condition that causes jaw pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and muscles that connect the mandible (lower jaw) to the skull and control jaw movement.
4) Post-orthodontic procedures
After undergoing orthodontic treatment to realign your teeth to their proper position and completing your time with braces, it is important to keep your teeth aligned to make sure they remain in place.
Where do I get a mouth guard?
Depending on your needs and budgets, a mouth guard can be purchased off the shelves at pharmacies or sports shops or custom-made for you by your dentist.
Store-bought guards are the most affordable option and easiest to find, while a custom-made mouth guard will be customised for you at the dental clinic.
1) Store-bought mouth guard
If you choose to purchase it from a store, there are two options to choose from, a pre-made guards or boil-and-bite models.
Pre-made
A pre-made or stock mouth guards is the most convenient and accessible option with affordable prices. You can use it as needed immediately after purchasing it.
However, it may feel bulky or uncomfortable, as they may not fit properly and could interfere with breathing or speaking.
Boil-and-Bite mouth guards
A good option for you if the ready-made options do not fit your teeth.
Soften this boil-and-bite guard by boiling it in hot water, then bite down while it's still warm to get a more customised fit.
While this type of mouth guard offers more comfort, it may still not be able to match the comfort of custom options.
2) Custom-made mouth guard
Unlike a pre-made or boil-and-bite product that you can buy at the pharmacy, to have a custom-made mouth guard, you need to visit a dental clinic. This type of mouth guard offers the most comfort and maximum protection, although it comes with a higher cost.
Types of mouth guard
Regardless of whether you have a store-bought mouth guard or a custom-fitted mouth guard, there are 3 main types of mouth guards designed to cater to your specific needs.
1) Mouth guard
A mouth guard is what you are looking for to protect your teeth and gums from sudden impact during high-risk sports. This includes contact sports or combat sports, such as MMA and boxing. Here are several benefits of using a mouth guard, such as:
Acts as a cushioned barrier to provide effective protection for and to prevent damage to teeth, such as chipped or broken teeth.
Prevent cuts and bruises to the lips, gums, and inner cheeks with its impact-absorbing material.
Help reduce the risk of concussions or jaw injuries by absorbing and dispersing external impact.
2) Night guard
Also known as a dental guard, this type of mouth guard is worn while sleeping to protect against teeth grinding (bruxism) and help relieve TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder pain. Here are the benefits of wearing a dental guard over your teeth at night, including:
Protection against teeth grinding and prevent the protective covering of the teeth (enamel) from getting worn down.
Reduces the risk of cracked teeth or fillings due to constant pressure from grinding.
Help relieve pressure and reduce the symptoms of TMJ disorders, such as jaw pain, clicking, and headaches.
May help with sleep disorders by reducing grinding or clenching that can disrupt your sleep.
3) Retainer
This type of mouth guard is designed for individuals who have completed orthodontic treatment and need to keep their newly aligned teeth in the proper position. It is thinner than a dental guard but still provides sufficient support to maintain your teeth's alignment and may also help protect your teeth from grinding (bruxism).
If you would like to use a mouth guard but are unsure which one is right for your condition or needs, request an appointment with Thomson Dental Centre. Our dentists will help you explore what options are available and advise on the most appropriate mouth guard choice.
How do I get a custom mouth guard?
To get a custom-fitted mouth guard, you will need to visit your dentist to get one made. But first, your dentist will discuss your needs or other conditions, whether this guard is for sports protection, bruxism (teeth grinding), TMJ disorder, or for other needs.
Creating a model of your teeth
After initial consultation, the dentist will use dental putty to make detailed impressions of your upper teeth and lower teeth to ensure a perfect fit.
The putty will be pressed against your teeth for several minutes to create the exact shape of your teeth and gums.
Alternatively, some dentists may use digital scanning technology to create a 3D image of your teeth.
Your dental mould or digital scans are then sent to a dental laboratory.
Fabricating the mouth guard
The lab uses the mould or 3D image to create a plaster model of your teeth. This model is a detailed replica used to make the custom mouth guard.
A thermoplastic material is heated and vacuum-formed over the model of your teeth.
The heated material is shaped to fit the contours of your teeth and gums perfectly. The edges are carefully trimmed and smoothed to ensure a comfortable fit.
Fitting and adjustments
The completed mouth appliance will be sent back to the dentist for your dentist to check the fit of the mouth guard in your mouth and teeth.
They’ll ensure it fits securely, feels comfortable, and doesn’t interfere with breathing or speaking.
If needed, minor adjustments (such as trimming or refining the rough edges) will be made to ensure the guard fits properly to provide optimal protection.
After adjustments and fitting, your dentist may also give you instructions on how to use, clean, and care for the mouth guard to maximise its use and prolong its lifespan.
If you’re considering getting a mouth guard, request a consultation at Thomson Dental Centre for customised options tailored to your needs.
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Cost of mouth guard in Singapore
The cost of mouth guards in Singapore may vary depending on whether you purchase it in the store or have it custom-made.
Store-bought mouth guards can range from as low as SGD $10 in an online store upwards of SGD $100, depending on the quality and brand.
While custom-made mouth guards are usually more expensive, they can go from around SGD $400 to $1000.
Other than that, there might be an additional consultation fee, which can range from SGD $20 to $60.
Unfortunately, the cost of mouth guards is not covered by Medisave or the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS). But some private health insurance plans may offer partial or full coverage for dental appliances like mouth guards.
For detailed fee information and payment options, please consult with your dental care provider and insurers directly.
Additionally, there are other factors that may affect the cost of your mouth guard, such as:
The type of material chosen for the mouth guard can affect the price. Higher-quality materials may carry a premium price but may offer better protection.
The technology used to make the mouth guard can also affect the price. Mouth guard manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing or milling may contribute to higher costs.
Fees are subject to change and may vary between different dental clinics.
Taking proper care of your mouth guard
Just as daily dental care removes bacteria and keeps your teeth clean, your mouth guard also requires maintenance to keep its hygiene. Here are some ways you can take care of your mouth guard, such as:
Regular cleaning
Clean your mouth guard immediately after use by rinsing it with cool water and using a soft-bristled toothbrush with nonabrasive toothpaste or mild soap.
Gently brush all surfaces of the guard to remove saliva, bacteria, and debris, being careful not to use abrasive materials that could damage it.
For deep cleanings, you can soak it in an antimicrobial solution, such as alcohol-free mouthwash or use a specialised cleaning solution, for 10-15 minutes once every week or two.
Proper storage
Before storing your mouth guard, ensure that it is completely dry. After that, you can store it in a clean, breathable container to ensure that there is no moisture that could cause bacteria or mould growth.
Check for wear and tear
Regularly inspect your mouth guard for any signs of damage, such as cracks, tears, or rough edges. Because these damages can compromise its protective abilities and may cause irritation to your gums.
If you notice any damage, replace the guard promptly to maintain optimal protection.
Be careful with the heat
If you're using a boil-and-bite mouth guard, avoid exposing it to high heat once it has been moulded. Doing so can cause deformation and may affect its fit on your teeth.
FAQ
What does wearing a mouth guard do?
Wearing a mouth guard helps protect your teeth and other soft tissues in the mouth from external forces during contact sports. It works by absorbing and dispersing the force across a broader area, thereby reducing the severity of the impact.
What is the difference between a mouth guard and a night guard?
The difference between a mouth guard and a night guard is their intended use and design. Mouth guards are designed to absorb sudden impacts to the teeth and prevent chipped or broken teeth. While night guards are designed to protect your teeth during sleep from grinding or clenching.
How many hours can you wear a mouth guard?
You can use your mouth guard for a couple of hours, but it's not advisable to use it more than 8 hours every day. Because it can trap bacteria and prevent saliva from reaching the surface of your gums, it may cause a cavity in the teeth in the long run.
To use at night, you should use a night guard that includes openings to let saliva circulate on the teeth and help neutralise cavity-causing bacteria.
What are the disadvantages of night guards?
Although a night guard works as a protection against bruxism, it also has a few downsides, such as:
It might be a little pricey, especially if you make it custom fit.
The quality of your night guard may affect how easily it becomes loose or damaged.
New users may experience increased salivation or dryness in the mouth.
Do you have to wash your mouth guard every night?
Yes, each time you wear your night guard, you should rinse it with warm water and a mild soap as soon as you wake up. You can also do a deep cleaning by soaking it in mouthwash for 10-15 minutes once every week or two to ensure its hygiene.
The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist by requesting an appointment with Thomson Dental Centre today.
For more information, contact us:
Thomson Dental Centre
Call: 6255 0770
WhatsApp: 8716 9594
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