Mouthguard Upland CA
Custom Mouthguards provided by Dr. Sikka in Upland, CA at Higher Ground Dentistry
Many Upland residents have heard of bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding. Numerous people live with this condition without realizing it can seriously damage their teeth. Patients who constantly grind their teeth often suffer from damaged tooth enamel over time. This disorder also causes cracks, chips, and loose teeth that require professional dental intervention. Upland families with braces may discover their oral appliances become damaged due to jaw clenching or nighttime teeth grinding.
During your visit to Higher Ground Dentistry, our experienced dental team will ask detailed questions about your bite patterns and whether you grind your teeth regularly. Our skilled dentists may recommend custom mouthguards to wear at night, helping protect your teeth (and braces if applicable) from the destructive forces of grinding or clenching for optimal oral health.
What is a Mouthguard?
If Upland residents are wondering what a mouthguard is, it's simply an oral appliance that keeps your teeth protected from various dental issues. Our skilled dentists can fabricate custom mouthguards that fit your mouth properly for optimal comfort and protection. Based on specific issues you're addressing—whether sleep apnea, protecting braces, or preventing teeth grinding—our experienced team will construct a piece that works specifically for your unique mouth structure.
Types of Night Guards Available
When Upland families present to our dental office with teeth grinding problems, we help you obtain the appropriate mouthguard for your needs. Various options are available for different patient preferences and budgets.
Boil and bite mouthguards are popular mouth protectors fabricated from thermoplastic material. Prior to placing these appliances in your mouth, you dip them in hot water and press with your fingers, or use tongue pressure once they're positioned in your mouth for proper fitting.
Stock mouth protectors are pre-fabricated and readily available for immediate use. These ready-made mouthguards may cost less than customized options for budget-conscious Upland families. However, they have downsides since you cannot adjust their fit because they're pre-fabricated without individual customization.
When you visit Higher Ground Dentistry, our experienced team discusses all mouthguard options available to meet your specific needs and preferences.
We often recommend custom-made mouthguards because they're comfortable to wear for Upland patients. They don't feel awkward in your mouth during sleep. Our dentist makes precise impressions of your teeth, including upper and lower arches. Using these impressions, we send the mold to our lab for professional construction of your mouth protector pieces. Because these tailor-made mouthguards require additional fabrication time, you'll return for another appointment to receive them.
Caring for Your Mouthguards
Your mouth protectors stay in your oral cavity for many hours while you sleep, potentially trapping bacteria and debris. It's crucial you keep them clean for optimal oral health. Before and after use, make sure you clean them thoroughly following our professional instructions.
Using water and non-abrasive toothpaste is recommended to prevent scratches that allow bacteria to lodge in your mouthguard. You may also clean them with non-alcoholic soap and water for effective sanitization.
Ready to learn about receiving custom mouthguards in Upland? Visit Higher Ground Dentistry or call us at 909-946-9090 for your appointment. We'll explain how these protective pieces can benefit you if you clench or grind your teeth. Our comprehensive examination also checks for other dental issues you might be experiencing, such as damaged enamel or tooth decay.