Occlusal & Sports Mouthguards

Mouthguards aren’t just for athletes—they’re essential tools for protecting teeth during sports, preventing damage from teeth grinding, and supporting jaw alignment during sleep. At Dentistry for Families, we offer custom-fitted occlusal and sports mouthguards for children, teens, and adults throughout North Las Vegas, Sunrise Manor, and Nellis Air Force Base.

Whether you need a guard for contact sports or relief from nighttime grinding and clenching, our custom mouthguards are made to fit your mouth precisely. This ensures better protection, greater comfort, and improved long-term oral health compared to over-the-counter options.

What Is the Difference Between Occlusal and Sports Mouthguards?

While both types of mouthguards are designed to protect your teeth, they serve different purposes:

• Occlusal Guards (also called night guards or bite splints)
  Used primarily to prevent damage caused by bruxism—the grinding or clenching of teeth during sleep. Occlusal guards also help relieve symptoms of TMJ disorders and reduce stress on the jaw joint.
• Sports Mouthguards
  Designed for use during physical activity, especially contact sports like football, basketball, martial arts, or hockey. These guards absorb impact and reduce the risk of dental injuries such as broken teeth, lip lacerations, and jaw trauma.

We custom-design each type of guard using digital impressions, which provide a precise fit for optimal protection and comfort.

While boil-and-bite guards from the drugstore may offer some protection, they often fall short in several ways. Custom mouthguards provide:

• Superior Fit
  Made specifically for your mouth using detailed digital scans. A snug fit means less shifting during use and better overall protection.
• Enhanced Comfort
  Less bulky and easier to wear for extended periods. Patients are more likely to actually use them as directed.
• Better Durability
  Custom materials resist wear, grinding pressure, and sports impact more effectively.
• Improved Performance
  For athletes, a well-fitted guard won’t interfere with breathing or speaking.

If you or your child recently completed orthodontic treatment, a custom guard helps preserve alignment and protect dental work.

Who Needs an Occlusal or Sports Mouthguard?

You may benefit from a night guard if you:

• Wake up with jaw soreness or headaches
• Grind or clench your teeth during sleep (bruxism)
• Have experienced chipped, flattened, or worn-down teeth
• Have been diagnosed with TMJ dysfunction or jaw pain

You may need a sports guard if you:

• Participate in contact sports or recreational activities with fall or collision risks
• Have crowns, veneers, or other dental restorations to protect
• Are undergoing orthodontic treatment and need added protection for brackets or wires

If you’re unsure which option is best, we’ll evaluate your bite, dental history, and lifestyle to recommend the right type of guard for your needs.

Our process is simple, precise, and designed around your schedule:

1. Initial Evaluation
   We begin with a full dental exam to identify wear patterns, jaw issues, or alignment concerns. We may also take digital X-rays for deeper insight.
2. Digital Impressions
   Using advanced intra-oral scanners, we capture a 3D model of your teeth—no messy putty needed.
3. Fabrication
   Your mouthguard is crafted at a trusted dental lab using durable, biocompatible materials suited to your specific case.
4. Fitting and Delivery
   Once ready, we check the fit in-office and make any minor adjustments. You'll receive instructions on care, cleaning, and how to use your guard properly.

Protect Your Smile at Every Stage of Life

We proudly provide mouthguards for patients of all ages in Aliante, Centennial Hills, Paradise, and surrounding neighborhoods. Whether your child needs a sports guard for school athletics or you’re dealing with chronic teeth grinding, our team is here to help protect your investment in your smile.

If your guard ever becomes damaged, we also offer adjustments or replacements to ensure ongoing protection. Preventive care is a big part of what we do, and custom mouthguards are one of the most effective ways to avoid costly dental damage in the future.

We often pair mouthguard therapy with services like:

• Fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel
• Dental cleanings to monitor for wear and inflammation‍
• TMJ therapy for long-term jaw joint health

How long do custom mouthguards last?

With proper care, a mouthguard can last several years. However, children and teens may need replacements more frequently as they grow or if they’re in active sports seasons.

Can I wear a sports mouthguard as a night guard?

No. Sports guards and night guards are made from different materials and serve different purposes. Using the wrong type may lead to discomfort or inadequate protection.

Will a night guard stop me from grinding my teeth?

It won’t stop the habit, but it protects your teeth and jaw from the damage caused by grinding. It may also help reduce related symptoms like headaches and jaw pain.

Are mouthguards covered by insurance?

Some dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for night guards, especially if related to TMJ or bruxism. Sports guards are typically considered preventive and may not be covered. Our team will help you review your benefits.

Can I get a mouthguard if I have braces?

Yes. We create mouthguards that accommodate brackets and wires, especially for athletes undergoing orthodontic treatment. A custom fit helps avoid irritation and ensures full protection.

Schedule Your Custom Mouthguard Appointment Today

Protect your teeth, reduce discomfort, and preserve your smile with a custom-fitted mouthguard from Dentistry for Families. Whether for sleep, sports, or stress-related clenching, we’ll make sure your solution fits perfectly and works exactly as it should.

Call us at (702) 633-4333 or request your appointment online to schedule a mouthguard consultation in North Las Vegas.