At University Centre Dental Associates, Dr. Maurice Haynes offers mouth guards as part of his top-notch general dental services for local residents in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County.
What Is a Mouth Guard?
A mouth guard is an appliance used by athletes to prevent injury to the jaw or teeth. Anyone involved in a contact sport should have a mouth guard made.
In addition, mouth guards can be made for patients who have a problem with bruxism, or grinding of the teeth. The appliances are also recommended to improve the symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ. These symptoms may include tiredness in the jaw muscles on waking, facial pain most notably near the ear, sudden bite change, difficulty in opening wide, a clicking or popping noise when opening or closing your mouth, and sensitive teeth/worn teeth.
What Type of Mouth Guard Is Recommended?
Dr. Maurice Haynes of University Centre Dental Associates advises patients to use the Under Armour® brand of customized mouth guards. Studies show that an impact to the face is not properly absorbed when a mouth guard isn’t customized. A custom Under Armour® mouth guard offers 10 times more protection than a “boil and bite” type brand. An Under Armour® mouth guard offers a dentist-like fit and chew resistance and allows the user to talk and breathe easily. Made in the USA, Under Armour® mouth guards are latex free and offer total comfort during any game.
How Is the Mouth Guard Made and Fitted?
Impressions of the patient’s upper and lower teeth are made, which allow an exact model of the gum and teeth to be made, thereby ensuring an accurate, if not precise, fit.
How Do I Care for My Mouth Guard?
The mouth should be rinsed thoroughly before placing the mouth guard in your mouth and after taking it out. Clean the mouth guard itself with warm and soapy water and soak the appliance every few months with either a denture cleanser or antibacterial mouthwash. When you are not using the mouth guard, keep it in its case in a cool storage place. Never use toothpaste or hot water on your mouth guard or store it in an area near heat. Also, avoid adjusting your mouth guard if it feels too loose or tight. Contact the dentist to make the correction instead.
How Often Should I Replace My Mouth Guard?
Children and teens up to 18 years old should replace their mouth guards annually to ensure a proper fit. Mouth guards for adults are quite durable and can last for years.
Why Choose Dr. Maurice Haynes of University Centre Dental Associates?
Dr. Maurice Haynes stays up-to-date on the newest advances and technologies in the field of dentistry in order to provide his patients with the best care possible. He combines excellent dental services with compassion and is an active member of the American Dental Association.
How Much Do Mouth Guards Cost in Greenbelt, MD?
The cost for mouth guards varies. Please schedule a consultation with University Centre Dental Associates to discuss your particular case.
Your dental insurance may cover the cost of mouth guards. Because every policy is different, the staff at University Centre Dental Associates will review your information and help determine the status of your mouth guard coverage.
We provide financing through CareCredit® as an option for any out-of-pocket mouth guard costs you may have. University Centre Dental Associates also offers a variety of payment methods to help make the process easier for our mouth guard patients.
Additional Family Dentistry Topics:
- Crowns
- Dental Bridges
- Dental Fillings
- Dental Hygiene
- Dental Sealants
- Dental X-Rays
- Dentures
- Fluoride Treatment
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Root Canals
- Teeth Cleaning
- Tooth Extraction
How Do I Schedule a Consultation?
Please call 301-220-1900 today to schedule your initial consultation!The general dental and orthodontic services we offer at University Centre Dental Associates have improved the lives of people from in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County. Whether you are an adult, a child, or a teenager, our knowledgeable staff is committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve. Please call 301-220-1900 today to schedule your initial consultation!