Certified "do-it-yourselfers" and people who like to save money have asked if they can fix a mouthguard or nightguard that is worn out with holes. Here the Sacramento Dentistry Group explains why this is a bad idea.
SACRAMENTO, Calif., January 8, 2019 (Newswire.com) - SACRAMENTO, Calif., December 18, 2018 (Newswire) - Mouthguards and nightguards are made from durable plastics that protect the teeth during active sports and from teeth grinding or teeth clenching. They fit comfortably and securely to the teeth when custom-made by a dental office, like the Sacramento Dentistry Group. Can a mouthguard be repaired if it gets a hole in it? The direct answer is no! Under no circumstances should a patient try to repair a mouthguard with holes. To understand why, it is necessary to consider why the guard has developed holes in the first place.
Why Did My Mouthguard Develop Holes?
Some people tend to “play” with their mouthguards during breaks in sporting activities. It is common to watch football players on television broadcasts, for example, chew on their mouthguards during timeouts and between plays. Nightguards are often subject to constant grinding forces while they protect the teeth from unconscious bruxing (gnashing the teeth together). Although the plastic used to make these devices is durable and can easily withstand the slightly acidic saliva, over time it develops holes from the constant forces exerted by chewing or grinding.
Unlike old tires, there is no process for “recapping” a mouthguard. And just like tires on a car or truck, an old guard that exposes the teeth underneath does nothing to protect them. It is very important to immediately visit a dentist, like those at the Sacramento Dentistry Group, to get a new nightguard or mouthguard when the original shows signs of wear.
When patients with mouthguards and nightguards visit the Sacramento Dentistry Group, they are encouraged to bring their guard with them. The device is professionally cleaned using an ultrasonic device, thoroughly sanitizing it and removing any plaque, bacteria or detritus. For more answers to questions about mouthguards, visit the website of the Sacramento Dentistry Group.
Source: Sacramento Dentistry Group
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