Don’t let sports-related injuries sideline you! Custom sports guards (and more) protect your healthiest smile

Don’t let sports-related injuries sideline you! Custom sports guards (and more) protect your healthiest smile

Oral appliances, also known as mouthguards, represent a comprehensive category of dental treatments designed to support your oral health and overall wellness. These devices are made to slip over your teeth and can be easily inserted and removed. Depending on your needs, Dr. Arnold Rifman may customize a sports mouthguard or a night guard at our office in Hollywood, California.

Young female athlete wearing a sports mouth guard in Hollywood, CA

Why would I need a sports mouthguard?

These guards or appliances are designed to be worn while playing sports that involve a risk of injury due to contact with objects or other players. Good candidates include those who participate in contact sports, such as basketball, football, and hockey. By wearing these devices correctly and consistently during sports, your teeth and other parts of your mouth and face are protected from damage caused by blows from other athletes and sports equipment, as well as from falls.

Why can’t I just buy a sports mouthguard at the store?

You could, but they will not fit as well or as comfortably as the ones designed at our office. Additionally, “universal fit” or “boil-and-bite” guards are not made to last. While they may cost less initially, these “OTC” mouth protectors often need to be replaced regularly. Our custom-fit devices are made with your comfort in mind. Because they are fitted to your mouth and comfortable to wear, you don’t take them out while playing sports. They also don’t jostle around while you are playing. Fabricated from the highest-quality materials, they provide optimal protection for your teeth and delicate oral tissues. Since these materials are so strong, our custom mouthguards are durable and well worth the upfront cost.

How long do sports mouthguards last?

Our precision-fit, professional mouthguards can last for several years. It’s essential to clean and store your device properly to prolong its lifespan and maintain its optimal condition. During regular checkups, we assess the fit and condition of your mouthguard. Adjustments may be made to keep it “working” like new.

What are nightguards used for?

Nightguards are made to protect the teeth, gums, and other tissues from damage caused by chronic teeth grinding. This condition, known as bruxism, often occurs during sleep. For this reason, they are referred to as “nightguards.” However, you may grind your teeth and clench your jaws during the daytime, too. Those with bruxism may engage in this highly destructive behavior while concentrating on their work or during episodes of stress during their waking hours. There are many different types of devices for bruxism, some of which are light and discreet enough to be worn during the day while you are at work or going about your business.

Colorful boxing mouth guard set for boxing in Hollywood, CA
Dentist showing a mouth guard in Hollywood, CA

Are your nightguards also customized?

Yes – all of our oral appliances differ from the protective guards you can purchase at the store or online, as they are designed and fabricated to your exact specifications and needs. You get more out of your investment, as our oral appliances fit well and are comfortable, allowing them to be worn consistently and function as intended.

Damage to your teeth, gums, and other parts of your mouth and face from sports-related injuries and bruxism can “sideline” you, and is also traumatic and expensive to repair. You can avoid such costly and painful injuries with preventive services (like custom nightguards and sports mouthguards) at the office of Arnold Rifman DDS. Call 323-466-2937 to schedule your appointment at our office in Hollywood, CA, which also proudly serves the greater Los Angeles area.