Orthodontics
Mouth guard
A mouth guard is a soft device worn over the teeth to cushion blows during sports or to protect teeth from grinding at night.
Mouth guards are also called mouth protectors. The ADA says mouthguards help cushion a blow to the face, which lowers the risk of broken teeth and of injuries to the lips, tongue, face, or jaw. Most cover the upper teeth. There are three kinds. Stock guards come ready-made, boil-and-bite guards soften in hot water and mold to your teeth, and custom guards are made by a dentist from an impression. A sports guard is worn for play, and a night guard is worn for sleep. They are not the same, so use the right one. Clean it and keep it in a case. See our custom mouth guard page.