Why Use a Mouth Guard
A Treatment for Sleep Apnea and Snoring
Patients who snore or have mild to moderate sleep apnea may benefit from a dental mouth guard. During sleep apnea, a person temporarily stops breathing while asleep, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
A mouth guard for sleep apnea does not cover the teeth but instead pushes the lower jaw and tongue forward, keeping the airway open. This dental device can improve sleep quality and reduce the frequency and loudness of snoring. Mouth guards designed just to reduce snoring tend to work similarly to mouth guards for sleep apnea.
Protecting the Mouth During Sports
A custom-fitted mouth guard designed for athletics will protect the soft tissues of the mouth and lips. It can also prevent significant tooth damage or even tooth loss. The flexible plastic material absorbs the force of any hit to the face or teeth.
An athletic mouth guard is slightly thicker than one designed for night use and may cause the upper lip to protrude slightly. Our team will help identify the appropriate mouthguard for each patient’s needs.
