Custom Mouth Guards
Wilson Park Dental provides custom mouthguards in Rapid City, SD. Call 605-343-9352 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Bruxism is the sliding of the teeth back and forth over each other (grinding) or clenching and unclenching of the teeth. It can occur during the day or night, during sleep or while awake, so patients may not even be unaware that they are doing it. Bruxism can be caused or intensified by stress and can lead to significant dental problems if not addressed. Bruxism causes additional wear on the tooth and root structures, as well as surrounding tissues, due to the abnormal, frequent pressure. Bruxism can lead to both periodontal disease and problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), as well as sleep disorders and damage to the teeth themselves. A custom removable acrylic appliance can be made to help protect teeth against wear, breakage, and other effects of bruxism. These appliances are usually worn at night during sleep.
Signs and symptoms of bruxism include:
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Gum Recession
- Periodontal Disease
- TMJ Disorders
- Wear to Teeth
- Broken or Fractured Teeth
Custom mouth guards are required for participation in many sports to protect teeth against injury.
Pre-formed, ready-to-wear mouth guards can be purchased inexpensively at many sporting stores, but they do not always fit well. They can be uncomfortable and can interfere with talking and even breathing.
Sporting goods stores also offer semi-custom mouth guards in which the plastic is heated and then the athlete bites on it while still warm to provide some level of custom fit.
Our office can make a custom mouth guard by taking an impression of your teeth and then creating a device fitted to your mouth for the highest level of both comfort and protection. A custom fitted mouth guard can be particularly important for athletes who wear braces.
Be sure to bring your mouth guard to your dental appointments, so we can be sure it still fits you well.
Call 605-343-9352 to schedule an appointment.