Mouth Guards in Markham, ON

We can usually tell from the wear and tear on your teeth whether you are prone to problematic dental habits after you fall asleep at night.

Fortunately, our Markham dental office offers advice and treatment options to manage clenching or grinding.

What are the types of mouth guards?

Mouth guards are typically worn to help protect your teeth throughout the day. You can find some options in stores, but the more comfortable and recommended route is to have a custom-made mouth guard in Markham by our dentist. These are the main differences between them:

Stock mouth guards: This is an inexpensive option available for purchase at most sporting goods stores, but they are bulky and not adjustable.
Boil and bite mouth guards: These can also be purchased in stores, but are preferable from a dental standpoint because they are made from a thermoplastic material that softens when placed in hot water, allowing it to mould better to your teeth.
Custom-fit mouth guards: Because they are created from your unique dental impressions, they offer superior fit and comfort. They are more expensive but specially moulded to your teeth and, therefore, protect and feel better.

How are mouthguards created and fitted?

At our Markham dental office, we believe in comfort and care. We take pride in effectively treating patients for a variety of dental issues.

If our dentist determines that you could benefit from a mouth guard, you may wish to consider it. Here is how it works:

First, we take your dental impressions with an iTeroTM scanner and can show you an interesting digital view of your mouth
Next, we email the impressions off to a dental lab, where your mouth guard is manufactured and returned to our office
Finally, we have you try on the mouth guard in Markham at our office to test out the fit and comfort, thus better ensuring you will wear it to protect your teeth and gums

It has never been easier to help prevent dental injuries or minimize controllable dental pain. To explore the idea of getting a mouth guard and to learn more about them, contact us.

How to care for your mouth guard

Whether you have dental insurance or need to pay out of pocket (for which we offer helpful payment plans to cater to dental costs in Ontario), caring for your mouth guard is essential. Follow these steps to ensure its longevity better:

Use cold water or mouthwash to rinse it before and after each use, or clean it with a toothbrush and mild soap
Store and transport it in a hard but perforated container to protect it from damage and allow air circulation
Avoid hot temperatures, which can distort the shape
Check it for holes or tears, and let us know if it becomes uncomfortable or too loose
Bring it along with you every time you have a dental appointment

Are you a candidate?

If you have issues with teeth grinding, clenching, bite alignment, or your jaw joints, you may want to consider getting a mouth guard in Markham, ON.

Our dentist will likely recommend this appliance if you play sports, skateboard, mountain bike, do gymnastics, etc.

Mouth guards are an effective and straightforward way to protect your teeth and gums, talk to us today about getting fitted today!

Frequently Asked Questions — Mouthguards

What types of mouthguards are available?

There are three primary types:

Stock mouthguards: Pre-made and inexpensive but often lack proper fit and comfort.

Boil-and-bite mouthguards: Moderate fit, softened in warm water then molded by biting into them.

Custom-made mouthguards: Professionally crafted from impressions of your teeth for optimal fit and protection.

What are mouthguards used for?

They protect teeth from damage during sports, prevent wear from grinding, and safeguard oral appliances like braces or retainers.

Are custom mouthguards more expensive?

Yes, they typically cost more than over-the-counter options because they are tailored for comfort and durability. However, they offer superior protection and fit.

Will my dental insurance cover a mouthguard?

Many insurance plans provide partial or full coverage for custom mouthguards, especially for athletes or patients diagnosed with teeth grinding (bruxism). Over-the-counter versions are usually not covered. It’s best to check your specific plan details.

How long does a mouthguard last?

Lifespan depends on use:

Sports-use mouthguards: Usually last one season or up to six months.

Nightguard for grinding: Can last one to several years, depending on material durability and frequency of wear.

How do I care for a mouthguard?

Clean it with mild soap and cool water after each use and store it in a ventilated case. Avoid exposure to heat, and replace it if it becomes warped, cracked, or worn down.

Is it painful or uncomfortable to wear a mouthguard?

High-quality mouthguards (especially custom-made) should be comfortable and easy to wear. Properly fitted devices shouldn’t interfere with breathing or speech. If discomfort occurs, consult a dentist for adjustment.