Occlusal & Sports Mouthguards in Fort Mill, SC
Custom Protection for Teeth During Sleep and Play
Whether you're dealing with nighttime grinding or participating in contact sports, protecting your teeth is essential to long-term oral health. At Core Dentistry, we provide custom-fit occlusal and sports mouthguards designed to protect your smile from injury, wear, and stress-related damage.
Led by Dr. Elizabeth Alexander, DMD FAGD and Dr. Erika Burley, DMD, our team delivers preventive solutions that are comfortable, durable, and tailored to your unique bite. We proudly serve individuals and families throughout Fort Mill, Tega Cay, India Hook, Marvin, and surrounding areas.
What Are Occlusal and Sports Mouthguards?
Though they serve different purposes, occlusal and sports mouthguards are both protective appliances that help shield your teeth from physical damage.
- Occlusal mouthguards (also called night guards) are worn during sleep to prevent damage from teeth grinding (bruxism) or clenching.
- Sports mouthguards are worn during athletic activities to protect against trauma to the teeth, lips, and jaw.
At Core Dentistry, we create custom-fitted mouthguards for both purposes. Unlike store-bought versions, our appliances are molded to your teeth for a secure fit and optimal comfort.
Occlusal Mouthguards for Bruxism
Bruxism—habitual teeth grinding or clenching—can wear down enamel, fracture teeth, and contribute to jaw pain and headaches. Many patients grind their teeth unknowingly while sleeping.
A custom occlusal mouthguard provides a physical barrier that:
- Prevents damage to tooth surfaces
- Reduces tension in the jaw and facial muscles
- Minimizes the risk of cracked or broken teeth
- Helps relieve symptoms of TMJ disorders
Occlusal guards are often recommended alongside TMJ therapy or bruxism treatment and are customized to your bite and comfort level.
Sports Mouthguards for Athletic Protection
Participating in sports increases the risk of dental trauma—especially in contact sports like football, hockey, or martial arts. A properly fitted sports mouthguard protects against:
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Soft tissue injuries to the lips and gums
- Jaw fractures and joint strain
Our custom sports guards are made from durable, flexible materials that allow you to speak and breathe easily while offering superior protection. They're an essential part of injury prevention for athletes of all ages.
The Process of Getting a Custom Mouthguard
Receiving a custom mouthguard at Core Dentistry involves a simple, two-step process:
- Consultation and Impressions
We evaluate your needs, discuss symptoms or risks, and take precise digital or physical impressions of your teeth. - Fitting and Delivery
Your mouthguard is fabricated in a dental lab. Once ready, you'll return for a final fitting to ensure proper fit and comfort.
With proper care and cleaning, your mouthguard can last several years. We'll check its condition at your regular dental exams and adjust it as needed.
FAQs About Occlusal & Sports Mouthguards
How do I know if I need an occlusal guard?
If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or tooth sensitivity—or notice wear on your teeth—you may be grinding at night. A custom occlusal guard can prevent damage and reduce symptoms.
Are store-bought mouthguards effective?
Over-the-counter guards offer limited protection and often don't fit properly. A custom-made mouthguard provides a secure, comfortable fit and much greater protection for your teeth and jaw.
How long does a mouthguard last?
With proper care, a custom mouthguard can last several years. However, athletes and bruxism patients should have their guards checked regularly for wear and fit.
Can children and teens get custom mouthguards?
Yes. We provide custom sports mouthguards for kids and teens who play sports. As their mouths grow, we’ll update the fit to ensure continued protection.
Will insurance cover a mouthguard?
Some dental insurance plans cover custom occlusal mouthguards when prescribed for bruxism or TMJ. Coverage for sports guards varies. We’ll verify your benefits and provide a cost estimate before treatment.
Question text goes here
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.
Request a Mouthguard Consultation Today
Protect your teeth from nighttime grinding or sports-related injuries with a custom mouthguard from Core Dentistry. Our team is here to help you maintain a healthy, injury-free smile with high-quality preventive care.
Call (803) 681-6600 or request your consultation online for a custom occlusal or sports mouthguard in Fort Mill, SC.