Night Guards and Sports Guards: Why You Need Extra Protection

Key Takeaways

• Night guards and sports guards help protect teeth from damage caused by grinding, clenching, and impact injuries.
• Night guards are designed to prevent bruxism-related issues such as enamel wear, TMJ disorders, and jaw pain.
• Sports mouthguards provide essential protection for athletes, reducing the risk of dental fractures and concussions.
• Custom-fitted guards offer superior protection, comfort, and durability compared to store-bought options.
• Insurance coverage for night guards varies, with some plans classifying them as preventive care.
• Longpoint Dental in Franklin, TN, provides high-quality, custom-made night and sports guards tailored for optimal protection and comfort.

Protect Your Teeth with Custom Night Guards & Sports Mouthguards in Franklin, TN

At Longpoint Dental, we believe in proactive care to safeguard your smile. Whether you’re grinding your teeth at night or playing high-contact sports, protecting your teeth from damage is essential. Night guards and sports guards provide a simple yet highly effective way to prevent costly and painful dental injuries. But what makes these devices so important, and how do you choose the right one? Let’s explore the benefits of these protective solutions and why Dr. Anne Marie Ellis and our team at Longpoint Dental in Franklin, TN, are your best choice for custom mouthguards.

What Are Night Guards and Sports Guards?

Mouthguards come in different forms depending on the specific protection they provide:

• Night Guards: Designed to prevent grinding (bruxism), TMJ disorders, and enamel wear.
• Sports Mouthguards: Protect teeth from impact during sports activities.
• Material Differences: Night guards are made of thin, durable, flexible plastic, while sports mouthguards are thicker with shock-absorbent material.
• Fit and Comfort: Custom-fit night guards are designed for comfort during sleep, while sports mouthguards provide a snug fit to absorb external impact.

Night guards are recommended for individuals who grind or clench their teeth at night, while sports mouthguards are crucial for athletes in contact sports like football, hockey, and boxing.

How Do Night Guards Protect Teeth?

Night guards act as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing wear and damage caused by bruxism. These guards:

• Reduce enamel erosion, preventing long-term dental complications.
• Minimize strain on the jaw, reducing symptoms of TMJ disorders.
• Help prevent headaches and facial pain caused by clenching.

Custom vs. Store-Bought Night Guards

Many patients ask whether over-the-counter mouthguards are a good alternative. While these options provide minimal protection, they lack the precise fit and durability of custom night guards made by Dr. Anne Marie Ellis at Longpoint Dental.

Are Night Guards Covered Under Preventive Dental Care?

Many insurance providers consider night guards a preventive measure, but coverage varies. Here’s what you need to know:

• Check your insurance policy to determine if night guards are covered under your dental plan.
• Some plans cover night guards as part of TMJ treatment or bruxism management.

Benefits of Custom-Fitted Mouthguards at Longpoint Dental

Choosing a custom mouthguard ensures:

• Perfect fit – No discomfort or slipping.
• Durability – High-quality materials designed to last.
• Maximum protection – Reduces the risk of dental injuries and jaw strain.
• Improved comfort – Easier to wear, breathe, and speak with than store-bought versions.

Dental Issues Prevented by Custom Mouthguards

• Tooth fractures and chipping
• Jaw pain and TMJ disorders
• Enamel erosion from grinding
• Concussions (for athletes wearing sports guards)

Who Should Consider Wearing a Night Guard or Sports Guard?

A night or sports guard is beneficial for:

• Individuals who grind their teeth at night (bruxism).
• Those experiencing jaw pain or TMJ symptoms.
• Athletes playing high-impact sports.
• People with a history of dental fractures or chipped teeth.

Custom Night Guards & Sports Guards at Longpoint Dental in Franklin, TN

At Longpoint Dental, we make getting a custom mouthguard simple and stress-free:

• Step 1: Consultation & Digital Impression – We assess your needs and take a precise digital scan for a perfect fit.
• Step 2: Custom Fabrication – Your guard is crafted using durable, high-quality materials.
• Step 3: Final Fitting & Adjustments – We ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness before you take it home.

Dr. Anne Marie Ellis takes the time to tailor each mouthguard to your unique needs, ensuring the best possible protection and comfort.

Schedule Your Mouthguard Consultation at Longpoint Dental Today!

Your teeth are worth protecting. Whether you need relief from nighttime grinding or an added layer of defense during sports, a custom-fitted mouthguard is an investment in your oral health.

Call Longpoint Dental in Franklin, TN, today to schedule your consultation and get fitted for a high-quality night or sports guard. Protect your smile now and prevent costly dental issues in the future.

Sources:

1. American Dental Association (ADA) – Mouthguard Recommendations
2. Cleveland Clinic – Night Guards & Bruxism Management
3. Academy for Sports Dentistry – Importance of Sports Mouthguards

Anne Marie Ellis, DMD,

Anne Marie Ellis, DMD, is dedicated to helping patients achieve healthier, more radiant smiles. With over a decade of experience, she combines expertise in traditional dentistry with a commitment to holistic, non-toxic care. Dr. Ellis prioritizes understanding her patients’ concerns and educates them to make informed decisions about their oral health. At Longpoint Dental, she offers advanced services, including Invisalign® and laser dentistry, and is certified in the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART). Her compassionate approach ensures every patient feels valued, heard, and empowered.