Mouth Guards Hilliard, OH

Are you or your family members active in sports? An unexpected fall or collision can do severe damage to your smile. That’s where a mouth guard can help. This simple piece of protective gear is one of the most effective ways to prevent dental injuries and preserve your long-term oral health.

At Hilliard Modern Dental in Hilliard, OH, Dr. Benjamin R. Lamielle and our team create custom mouth guards designed to protect your teeth and gums during athletic activities. Whether you participate in contact sports or recreational activities, having the right dental appliance can significantly reduce the risk of injury and help you maintain strong, healthy teeth.

Why Mouth Guards Matter

Mouth guards, sometimes called mouth protectors, are designed to shield the upper teeth, lower teeth, and soft tissues of the mouth from damage. During activities like ice hockey, football, field hockey, water polo, and other contact sports, injuries to the teeth are all too common. Even in non-contact recreational activities, an accidental fall or impact can lead to a chipped or broken tooth.

By wearing a properly fitted mouth guard, you reduce your chances of a dental injury and keep your smile protected. The American Dental Association strongly recommends mouth guards for athletes of all ages and skill levels.

Want to learn more about protecting your smile? Call our dental office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lamielle.

Types of Mouth Guards

There are different types of mouth guards, each designed with varying levels of protection and comfort. Choosing the right type depends on your activity level, budget, and personal needs.

Stock Mouth Guards

These are pre-formed and available at sporting goods stores. While they are inexpensive and easy to purchase, they often provide the least protection because they cannot adapt to the anatomy of your teeth. They can also feel bulky and make it difficult to breathe or speak during play.

Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards

Sold at many sporting goods stores, these are softened in hot water before being placed in the mouth and shaped to the teeth. While they fit better than stock options, they are still not as precise as a professional fit.

Custom Mouthguards

Crafted by a dental lab using dental impressions taken at our office, these are the gold standard. A custom mouthguard provides the best fit and protection, as it is tailored specifically to the upper and lower teeth and bite alignment. This makes them more comfortable to wear for longer periods while offering maximum protection.

Custom Mouth Guards vs. Over-the-Counter Options

While guards from sporting goods stores may seem convenient, they can’t match the fit and effectiveness of a professional solution.

• Over-the-Counter Options: Affordable but less durable, often uncomfortable.
• Custom Mouthguards: Precision-fitted, providing greater comfort and superior protection, tailored to the unique anatomy of your teeth.

Ultimately, a guard made at our Hilliard dental office is an investment in your smile’s long-term health.

How Mouth Guards Protect Your Teeth

The primary purpose of a mouth guard is protection. When participating in athletic activities such as ice hockey, field hockey, and water polo, as well as other contact sports, the risk of being hit in the mouth or jaw is always present. A properly fitted guard acts as a cushion between your teeth and the force of impact.

Shock Absorption

When a ball, stick, or elbow hits your mouth, the force travels directly to the teeth and jaw. A custom mouthguard absorbs and distributes that energy, lessening the impact. Instead of one or two teeth taking the brunt of the pressure, it is distributed across the entire dental arch. This reduces the chance of cracked enamel, broken crowns, or even a knocked-out tooth.

Protection Against Soft Tissue Injuries

Your lips, cheeks, and tongue are vulnerable during sports. Without protection, your teeth can easily cut into these soft tissues, causing painful wounds. A guard provides a smooth barrier that lowers the risk of biting your tongue or splitting your lip during sudden impacts.

Stabilization of Upper and Lower Teeth

Mouth guards don’t just cover the upper teeth. Certain types of mouth guards are also designed to protect the lower teeth. By keeping both arches cushioned, they stabilize your bite and preserve the anatomy of your teeth, preventing chips and fractures.

Prevention of Dental Appliance Damage

For patients with braces, bridges, or other dental appliances, a properly fitted guard is especially important. It prevents wires and brackets from injuring your cheeks or lips and reduces the chance of damaging orthodontic work.

Want to keep your teeth safe during sports and recreational activities? Contact our dental office to schedule your custom mouthguard appointment.

Custom Mouth Guards at Hilliard Modern Dental

Creating a custom mouthguard at our dental office is a simple, comfortable process that results in a high-quality appliance designed specifically for your needs. Every step is focused on ensuring the best possible protection for your teeth and the most natural fit for your bite.

Step 1: Consultation and Evaluation

Your visit begins with a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Lamielle. During this appointment, we’ll discuss the athletic activities, recreational activities, or contact sports in which you participate. Our team will also review your current dental health to make sure your guard will protect both your upper teeth and lower teeth effectively.

For patients with orthodontics, crowns, or other dental appliances, we take special care to recommend the right type of mouth guard that won’t interfere with treatment.

Step 2: Taking Dental Impressions

To create a precise fit, we take detailed dental impressions of your teeth. These impressions capture the unique shape of your teeth, including your bite, spacing, and alignment. This step is what makes a custom guard so much more effective than stock or boil-and-bite versions from sporting goods stores. With this level of detail, you get a guard that hugs your teeth securely without feeling bulky.

Step 3: Fabrication in a Dental Lab

Your impressions are sent to a professional dental lab, where skilled technicians craft your guard from durable, high-grade materials. This specialized fabrication process ensures that your guard provides lasting protection against impact while maintaining flexibility and comfort. Unlike store-bought options softened in hot water, these guards are designed to withstand repeated use while holding their shape.

Step 4: Final Fit and Adjustments

Once your guard is ready, you’ll return to our dental office for a fitting. Dr. Lamielle will check the fit, comfort, and overall protection. If needed, minor adjustments are made so the guard feels completely natural when you’re talking, breathing, or playing sports. The goal is to provide a guard you’ll want to wear every time you step onto the field, rink, or court.

How Long Does a Mouth Guard Last?

The lifespan of a mouth guard depends on the type of mouth guard you use and how often it’s worn.

• Stock guards may only last a few months.
• Boil-and-bite guards usually last one sports season.
• Custom mouthguards can last longer with proper care; however, athletes in high-contact sports may require replacements more frequently.

Regular checkups at our dental office in Hilliard allow Dr. Lamielle to inspect your guard and recommend replacements as needed.

Proper Care for Your Mouth Guard

A mouth guard is only effective when it’s kept clean, well-maintained, and in good condition. Because it comes into direct contact with your teeth, saliva, and the soft tissues of your mouth, it can quickly accumulate bacteria if not properly cared for. With the right habits, you can extend its lifespan and ensure it continues to protect your smile.

Daily Cleaning Tips

• Rinse your guard with cool water before and after each use.
• Clean it with mild soap or toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.
• Avoid hot water, which can cause the material to lose its shape and compromise its fit.
• Store the guard in a ventilated container to prevent odor and bacterial buildup.

Between-Season Maintenance

At the end of each sports season, give your mouth guard extra attention. Wash it thoroughly, allow it to dry completely, and store it in a clean, dry place. Never leave it in a closed gym bag or a hot car, as heat and moisture can cause the material to warp.

It’s also a smart idea to bring your guard to routine visits to our dental office. Dr. Lamielle can check for wear and tear and ensure the fit still matches the anatomy of your teeth. Athletes who play year-round or participate in high-impact sports such as ice hockey, field hockey, or water polo may need more frequent replacements.

When to Replace Your Mouth Guard

Even with excellent care, all types of mouthguards eventually wear down. If you notice cracks, thinning areas, or discomfort when wearing the guard, it’s time to consider a replacement. By staying proactive, you reduce the risk of injury and keep your oral health protected every season.

Protect Your Smile with Hilliard Modern Dental

At Hilliard Modern Dental, we believe every athlete deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing their smile is safe. Dr. Benjamin R. Lamielle and our team are committed to helping you find the right type of mouth guard for your needs, whether you play competitively or enjoy recreational activities.

Don’t wait until a dental injury happens. Take proactive steps today. Call our office at 614-529-9644 to schedule your mouth guard consultation and keep your smile protected during every game and activity.