Mouthguards and dentures? Is that even possible? If you wear dentures, you might have asked the same question. Whether you are an athlete or involuntarily grind your teeth at night, protecting your teeth/dentures is indisputable. While mouthguards are the go-to solution for dentition protection, most people wonder if they accord the same shield to dentures without side effects. Why don’t we find out? An experienced dental professional in the area can guide you on the compatibility of mouthguards with dentures, ensuring comprehensive protection without compromising your oral health. Check this experienced dentist in henderson nv for the best service
Dentures and Mouthguards
Can you wear dentures with mouthguards? The short answer is yes. You can wear mouthguards with dentures, but there are considerations attached. Dentures are designed to fit like a glove, and using a mouthguard may require some alterations for comfort’s sake.
One way to do this is to invest in a custom-made mouthguard. These mouthguards are designed per your (mouth) specifications, whether you have dentures on or not. They are typically made by a licensed dentist who takes an impression of your mouth to craft a mouthguard that fits perfectly. This approach is a logical choice for people with dentures as it ensures a secure fit and barely interferes with prosthetic teeth.
OTC Mouthguards
On the flip side, custom-made mouthguards cost a small fortune. Hence, not everyone can afford them. If these are a luxury for you, there are other alternatives. A case in point is Over the Counter ( OTC) mouthguards. Most drugstores and sporting goods stores sell these types of mouthguards. They use a “boil-and-bite” approach to ensure a custom fit. To use one, you must heat it in water and then bite down on it to create a rough mould that’s a near-perfect fit for your teeth.
Though OTC mouthguards are affordable, they may not be compatible with dentures. They may not be as comfortable and protective as their custom-made counterparts. But you can always make them work to your preference; carefully adjust the mouthguard to sit on top of your dentures. And while this may offer a level of comfort, it may still lag in the protection department.
Denture Type
You should also consider the type of dentures you have when wearing a mouthguard. Full dentures cover entirely the upper and lower arch, while partial dentures replace a few missing teeth. Full dentures are generally more compatible with mouthguards because they cover the entire arch. Conversely, partial dentures demand extra care and strategic positioning to avoid interference between the natural and prosthetic teeth.
Oral Health
It is crucial to safeguard your oral health when wearing a mouthguard with dentures. Clean your dentures and mouthguard religiously to prevent bacteria buildup and maintain good oral hygiene. Consult your dentist for proper care and maintenance.
Athletes and Mouthguards
Athletes are encouraged to protect their dentition when playing sports. So, if you are one, consider wearing a mouthguard to prevent dental injuries. However, an ill-fitting mouthguard is nothing but uncomfortable and may not provide the required protection. It is best to invest in a custom-made mouthguard for optimum comfort and protection.
Bruxism
Grinding your teeth at night is known as “bruxism”, and a mouthguard can help combat the side effects. You may consider OTC mouthguards to counteract your condition, but they are not the best choice if you have dentures. The pressure from teeth grinding can shift or damage your dentures. Search denture repairs near me to consult seasoned denture repair specialists who cater to people with bruxism.
