Mouth Guards
Mouth Guards: Protecting Your Smile and Supporting Gum Health
Keeping your smile healthy takes more than brushing and flossing. Stress on your teeth and gums can come from a variety of things, such as grinding while you sleep or a hard hit during a game. A well-made mouth guard protects against that. At Forest Hills Dentistry, we focus on comfort and durability so your guard feels easy to wear and actually does its job.
For patients with gum disease, extra protection is key. Night guards ease clenching, while sports guards shield during activity. Both help keep teeth and gums strong.
Why Mouth Guards Matter for Gum Health
Gum disease weakens the support system that holds your teeth in place, making them easier to damage. In the early and middle stages, you might notice swelling, bleeding, or gums that begin to pull back from the teeth. These problems can make your teeth more sensitive to everyday pressure, injuries, or teeth grinding. A mouth guard acts like a shield, creating a barrier that helps reduce stress on your teeth and gums.
Even small amounts of clenching or sudden force can strain weakened gums. A mouth guard helps absorb this pressure, giving your gums a chance to heal and stay steady. Using one regularly can also lower the chances of future dental problems, helping keep your smile stronger and healthier over time.
Signs You May Need a Mouth Guard
Is a mouth guard right for you? Here are some signs to look for:
- You wake with headaches, sore jaw muscles, or sensitive teeth.
- Your teeth show signs of wear or flattening.
- Your gums often bleed and feel tender.
- You play sports or enjoy recreational activities with contact.
- You’ve noticed cracked, chipped, or loose teeth.
If any of these sound familiar, a consultation can determine whether a night guard or sports guard could protect your smile and support your overall oral health.
Night Guards: Relief from Grinding and Clenching
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is one of the most common reasons patients need a mouth guard. Many people grind without realizing it until symptoms appear. These symptoms can include headaches, jaw pain, worn enamel, and tooth sensitivity.
For patients with gum disease, grinding is especially harmful. Clenching puts extra force on teeth that already lack strong support from the gums. Over time, this pressure can lead to tooth mobility or even tooth loss.
A custom night guard fits comfortably over your teeth and creates a cushion. This barrier absorbs the force of grinding, protecting both your teeth and gums. Precise impressions make the guard feel natural and prevent it from interfering with sleep. Many people also notice that using a night guard helps ease morning tension in the jaw and face while keeping their smile protected.
Sports Guards: Protection for Active Lifestyles
If you play contact sports or participate in activities with a risk of falls or collisions, a sports guard is essential. These guards prevent injuries from sudden impact. A blow to the mouth can chip, fracture, or knock out a tooth in seconds.
Patients with gum disease face a higher risk when trauma occurs. Inflamed or receding gums provide less cushion and stability for teeth. A sports guard shields your teeth and gums from sudden force.
Unlike store-bought versions, custom sports guards fit securely and make it easier to breathe and talk. They also spread out the impact more evenly, which helps lower the chance of oral injuries. Lightweight yet protective, they provide you with comfort and safety at the same time.
Benefits Beyond Protection
Many people think of mouth guards only for preventing injuries or grinding, but they can do much more. A custom night guard can help protect costly dental work—such as crowns, implants, or veneers—from cracking or loosening. Sports guards can lower the risk of concussions by absorbing shock from a hit to the jaw. Both types may also improve airflow, making breathing and speaking easier. These benefits show that mouth guards aren’t just about protection—they’re about preserving long-term health and performance.
How Mouth Guards Are Made
At Forest Hills Dentistry, we create custom mouth guards through a detailed process:
- Consultation – We discuss your symptoms, daily habits, and gum health to determine your needs.
- Impressions – Precise molds or digital scans capture the exact shape of your teeth for a secure fit.
- Fabrication – Your guard is crafted from strong, biocompatible materials designed for durability and safety.
- Fitting – We make careful adjustments to maximize comfort and protection.
- Follow-Up – We recheck the guard to confirm long-term fit and effectiveness.
This step-by-step approach keeps your teeth and gums protected without discomfort or slippage.
Caring for Your Mouth Guard
It’s important to keep your mouth guard clean if you want healthy gums. Germs build up fast on wet surfaces, and if you don’t clean the mouth guard, gum problems can get worse. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Rinse with cool water after each use to remove saliva and debris.
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap to eliminate buildup without damaging the material.
- Store in a ventilated case that allows airflow and prevents bacterial growth.
- Bring your guard to dental visits so your dentist can inspect its condition.
Replacing it when worn helps maintain your comfort and protection.
Why People Choose Us for Protection and Comfort
Our practice combines advanced technology with personalized care. Every guard is designed specifically for your smile, lifestyle, and gum health. We avoid one-size-fits-all solutions because your oral needs deserve more attention than that.
Dr. Payam Cohen and our team focus on prevention as much as treatment. By offering mouth guards as part of your care plan, we help protect your gums while also preserving the natural look and function of your teeth. Patients across Forest Hills and Queens trust us because we combine dental expertise with compassion and a commitment to comfort.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re managing a case of early to moderate gum disease, protecting your teeth and gums is more important than ever. A custom night guard or sports guard can provide the support you need to preserve your smile.
Contact Forest Hills Dentistry today to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your concerns, evaluate your gum health, and recommend the right guard for your lifestyle. With the right protection, you can move forward with confidence knowing your teeth and gums are cared for.