At Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we prioritize the safety and well-being of your child's teeth. Custom mouthguards are an essential tool in protecting your child's smile during sports and other physical activities. Our board-certified pediatric dentists, including Dr. Poonam Shah and Dr. Kara Whittington, provide high-quality, custom-fitted mouthguards to ensure maximum protection and comfort.
What Are Custom Mouthguards?
Custom mouthguards are protective devices designed to fit your child's teeth precisely. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, custom mouthguards are created from impressions of your child's teeth, providing a superior fit and better protection. They help to cushion the impact to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face, or jaw.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate?
Custom mouthguards are ideal for children who:
If your child fits any of these criteria, a custom mouthguard can help protect their teeth and reduce the risk of injury.
How It Works
Initial Consultation and Assessment
The process begins with a visit to Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, where our dentists will assess your child's dental health and take impressions of their teeth. This ensures that the mouthguard will fit perfectly and provide optimal protection.
Custom Fabrication
The impressions are sent to a dental lab where the custom mouthguard is fabricated. The mouthguard is made from durable, high-quality materials that can withstand significant impact and provide long-lasting protection.
Fitting and Adjustments
Once the custom mouthguard is ready, your child will return to our office for a fitting. Our dentists will ensure that the mouthguard fits correctly and comfortably, making any necessary adjustments. A well-fitted mouthguard should allow your child to speak and breathe easily while providing excellent protection.
What Does It Do?
Custom mouthguards provide several benefits:
- Protection: They absorb and distribute the force of impact, reducing the risk of dental injuries.
- Comfort: Custom mouthguards fit better than store-bought options, ensuring that your child will wear them consistently.
- Durability: Made from high-quality materials, custom mouthguards are more durable and effective.
- Support for Orthodontic Treatment: For children with braces, custom mouthguards offer additional protection and prevent damage to both the teeth and orthodontic appliances.
Recovery and Maintenance
Using a custom mouthguard does not require any recovery time. However, maintaining the mouthguard is essential to ensure its effectiveness and longevity. Here are some tips for proper care:
- Clean Regularly: Rinse the mouthguard with cool water after each use and brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Store Properly: Keep the mouthguard in a ventilated container to prevent bacterial growth.
- Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect the mouthguard for any signs of damage and bring it to your dental visits for professional evaluation.
- Replace When Necessary: Mouthguards should be replaced when they show signs of wear or no longer fit properly, especially for growing children.
Why Choose Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics?
Our team of experienced and board-certified pediatric dentists, including Dr. Poonam Shah, Dr. Kara Whittington, and Dr. Joanna Ayala, is dedicated to providing the highest quality care tailored to the unique needs of children in San Antonio and surrounding areas like Kerrville, Comfort, and Bandera.
We utilize the latest dental technology to provide the best care possible. From digital X-rays to advanced sterilization techniques, our commitment to modern technology ensures your child receives the safest and most effective treatments.
With multiple locations and flexible office hours, including evenings and weekends, we make it easy for you to access the care your child needs. Visit us in Kerrville, Comfort, Medina, Bandera, Mountain Home, and Fredericksburg.
Schedule Your Child's Mouthguard Appointment Today!
If your child needs a custom mouthguard, don't wait. Contact Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to ensure your child receives the best protection for their teeth. Visit our contact page to book your appointment today.