Have you ever wondered what your dentist means when he or she recommends that you wear a tongue guard? This small and simple piece of plastic can help to improve your oral health and protect your teeth from further damage, but it’s important to know what it does and how it works before you purchase one. In this guide, we’ll discuss the three primary benefits of using a tongue guard, as well as answer some frequently asked questions about these useful devices.
Tongue guards come in different shapes
some fit around your lower teeth, some cover just your top teeth, and others are custom made for individual patients. Regardless of what shape they take, though, they all serve one important purpose: to protect against sudden injuries that might result from biting down or grinding your teeth at night. Just like braces or bite blocks, these devices rest in place while you sleep and act as barriers between your upper and lower sets of teeth. And because they keep your jaw muscles more relaxed when you’re sleeping—and so prevent muscle spasms—they can also make it easier to wake up each morning with fewer headaches or jaw pain. Some guards also contain stiffeners that prevent grinding.
There are many types of tongue guards
some are shape to replace missing teeth; others are used to protect tongues or cheeks from biting or chewing. All types of bite blocks braces and braces can be helpful when trying to quit smoking, reduce snoring, improve oral health, prevent grinding your teeth (bruxism), provide an extra safeguard for those who grind their teeth at night (often teenagers) or just block out noise in social situations. This can come in handy when we’re trying to communicate with someone but we want to prevent ourselves from getting distract by other noises. Some people who want extra protection choose options that include two bite guards—one for each side of their mouth—but these can be more expensive than one-sided options.
Most devices are made from soft plastic so they won’t cause damage to our mouths. However, if you have sensitive gums, you may experience discomfort until they become accustomed to wearing them. It’s also important to note that not all products will work for everyone so it’s best to consult with your dentist before making any purchases. If you’re considering using a bite block or brace as part of your quitting process, remember: there’s no magic cure-all solution! You’ll still need willpower and determination if you want results!
How can a tongue guard help you?
As orthodontists, we spend much of our day talking about brushing and flossing. However, there are many times when these things aren’t enough to keep your teeth healthy. A tongue thrust or bite block can be a great option to assist in protecting your teeth from tooth decay. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that adults who are considering undergoing orthodontic treatment see an experienced dentist to evaluate for tooth decay before moving forward with treatment plans. In addition, if you have dentures or other appliances which provide support for your lower jaw, you may also need a bite block or brace to make sure they aren’t push back while you sleep so they stay in place properly during waking hours as well as sleeping hours.
How should I care for my mouthguard?
Here’s what you need to know to properly care for your mouthguard: Don’t eat or drink with your mouthguard in. Cleanse it with water after every use. Store your mouthguard in its provided case when not in use. Never bite down on hard objects, like pens or pencils, while wearing your mouthguard; doing so could cause damage to the appliance or injury to yourself. Never chew on frozen objects; doing so can cause serious injury.
Tongue guards fit right away or take time to fit well
Depending on what type of tongue restraint you use, getting it fit properly by your dentist can either be quick or take multiple visits. Typically, a bite block for braces only takes one visit to get everything fit correctly. However, some people will benefit from using dental wax to achieve an optimal fit before they move on to their permanent solution. Other types of mouth guards (such as over-the-counter guards) require a more customized approach; those typically have boil-and-bite components that take time to fit correctly because they need to mold perfectly against your teeth and gums. Once you’ve decided which type of mouthguard best fits your needs, don’t forget to follow any instructions regarding wearing schedules and care!
