Occlusal & Sports Guards in Laredo, TX
At Hector Lopez DDS PC, we are committed to safeguarding your smile with custom occlusal and sports guards. Whether you need protection from nighttime teeth grinding or dental injuries during physical activities, our Laredo, TX practice, led by Dr. Hector Lopez, provides personalized solutions for optimal comfort and defense.
Protect Your Teeth with Custom Occlusal & Sports Guards
Occlusal guards, commonly known as night guards, are specially designed to prevent damage caused by teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching while you sleep. For athletes, sports guards offer essential protection against dental injuries during contact sports and other high-impact activities. At Hector Lopez DDS PC, our custom-fit guards are tailored to your unique mouth shape, ensuring the highest level of protection and comfort.
Custom Occlusal Guards for Nighttime Grinding and TMJ
Teeth grinding and clenching can lead to significant dental issues, including tooth wear, jaw pain, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. A custom occlusal guard provides a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, reducing strain on your jaw muscles and preventing further tooth damage. Our personalized guards are crafted to fit snugly, offering a comfortable and effective solution for protecting your smile.
If you experience anxiety during dental visits, we offer sedation dentistry options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help make the fitting process stress-free.
Sports Guards for Athletes of All Ages
Sports-related dental injuries are common but preventable with the right equipment. Our custom sports guards are ideal for athletes participating in contact sports like football, basketball, and martial arts. Unlike store-bought mouthguards, our custom-fit sports guards stay securely in place, providing superior protection for your teeth and jaw. For young athletes, we also offer pediatric sports guards to ensure their smiles are well-protected during every game.
Benefits of Custom-Fit Guards Over Store-Bought Options
Choosing a custom-fit guard offers several distinct advantages:
- Superior Comfort: Custom guards are molded to fit your mouth precisely, making them more comfortable and less bulky than generic options.
- Enhanced Protection: Because they are tailored to your specific bite, custom guards provide better defense against grinding and impact injuries.
- Durability: Made from high-quality materials, custom guards last longer and perform better than over-the-counter alternatives.
Protect Your Smile with Custom Guards
Ensure your teeth are protected with custom occlusal and sports guards from Hector Lopez DDS PC. Whether you need a guard for nighttime grinding or sports activities, our expert team provides the protection you need for every situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Occlusal & Sports Guards
What is an occlusal guard, and who needs one?
An occlusal guard, or night guard, is a dental appliance designed to prevent teeth grinding and clenching during sleep. It's ideal for individuals experiencing symptoms of bruxism, such as worn teeth, jaw pain, or TMJ disorders.
How do custom sports guards differ from store-bought options?
Custom sports guards are professionally molded to fit your mouth precisely, providing superior comfort and protection compared to generic store-bought guards, which may not fit as securely.
Can children use occlusal and sports guards?
Yes, both occlusal and sports guards can be made for children. Our pediatric dentistry services include custom-fitting guards to protect young teeth from grinding damage and sports injuries.
How long does it take to get a custom guard?
The process usually requires two appointments. During the first visit, impressions of your teeth are taken to create a custom guard. The guard is then fitted and adjusted for comfort at the second appointment.
How often should I replace my guard?
Custom guards typically last several years with proper care. However, if you notice signs of wear or if your guard becomes uncomfortable, it may be time to get a replacement.
Can a guard help with snoring or sleep apnea?
While occlusal guards are primarily for protecting against teeth grinding, some guards can be designed to help reduce snoring or mild sleep apnea. Dr. Lopez can discuss your needs during the consultation.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.
The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.