June 2013

by Robert Rapisarda
Many patients think of mouth guards as a bulky piece of sports equipment that can be picked up over the counter at any sporting goods store. So Worcester cosmetic dentist Robert Rapisarda’s patients are often surprised when he recommends the use of a dental mouth guard. However, a dental mouth guard, especially one custom-made for the patient’s mouth, can actually be very useful in addressing a number of dental and health concerns. For patients in Worcester, dental mouth guards can provide protection and alleviate the symptoms of bruxism, TMJ disorder, and sleep apnea.

Protection: There is a reason that patients think of mouth guards as a piece of sporting equipment. While there are many uses for dental mouth guards, protection during sporting events remains their most common. However, many athletes use store-bought mouth guards. Custom-made dental mouth guards can provide a more comfortable fit and superior protection for athletes who play contact sports, as well as those participating in leisurely activities such as swimming, cycling, skateboarding, etc.

Bruxism: Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding. Teeth grinding can cause significant damage to the teeth. For many patients in Worcester, dental crowns may be necessary to repair damage and restore strength to teeth that have been weakened by teeth grinding. A dental mouth guard is recommended to patients who show signs of bruxism; the guard will prevent teeth grinding while patients sleep.

TMJ Disorder: TMJ disorder is another painful oral health condition that may be treated with a dental mouth guard. There are many possible causes of TMJ, one of which is a misalignment of the teeth. A dental mouth guard is a conservative method of keeping the teeth properly aligned while a patient sleeps. For patients with mild TMJ symptoms a dental mouth guard may be able to alleviate the discomfort of TMJ.

Sleep Apnea: Known more as a medical condition than an oral health problem, patients with sleep apnea may also benefit from the use of a dental mouth guard or splint. Wearing a dental mouth guard at night can align the teeth and jaw and open up the airways so that unobstructed breathing is possible.

Benefits of Dental Mouth Guards

The treatment and protective benefits of dental mouth guards include:

• Avoidance of teeth, mouth, and lip injuries during sporting events
• Prevention of teeth grinding and the tooth damage it can cause
• Relief from the painful symptoms of TMJ disorder, including headaches and sore jaw muscles
• A restful night’s sleep for patients with sleep apnea

Aside from the treatment benefits of dental mouth guards, custom-made mouth guards provided by Dr. Rapisarda provide patients with these additional benefits:

• Close and customized fit
• Superior comfort
• An absence of odor or taste that many patients experience with store bought mouth guards
• Durability

Schedule an Appointment

Patients who are suffering from bruxism, TMJ disorder, or sleep apnea may be good candidates for a dental mouth guard. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Robert Rapisarda to have a custom-made dental mouth guard made. Dr. Rapisarda offers dental mouth guards that are superior in both fit and quality.