With sports in full swing, Dr. Payne recommends that his patients in Sacramento, CA wear mouth guards. Mouth Guards are an essential part of many athletes’ sport equipment that protect players’ teeth preventing dental injury. And patients who grind their teeth are also encouraged to wear mouth guards. There are three types of mouth guards: stock mouth guards, boil and bite mouth guards and orthodontic mouth guards. American River Orthodontics is happy to advise its patients in Sacramento, CA on which mouth guard is right for them.

Stock mouth guards are preformed and come ready to wear. They are inexpensive and can be bought at most sporting goods stores in Sacramento, CA. Unfortunately, little can be done to adjust their fit: they are bulky, make breathing and talking difficult and they provide little or no protection. Dr. Payne does not recommend this type of mouth guard to his patients. Boil and bite mouth guards can also be bought at many sporting goods stores in the Sacramento and Roseville, CA areas, and may offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. Boil and bite mouth guards are made from a thermoplastic material so that consumers can do just as the name says; “boil and bite” to ensure a perfect fit. Hot water softens this product and allows consumers to shape the mouth guard around their teeth using finger and tongue pressure. Dr. Payne does not recommend that patients use this mouth guard if they have braces however. Lastly, orthodontic mouth guards are mouth guards you can get from American River Orthodontics. They are more expensive than the other types, but they will provide the most comfort and protection.

Don’t hesitate to contact, Dr. Payne in Sacramento, CA to learn more about mouth guards. The team at American River Orthodontics is always ready to assist all of your orthodontic and dental needs.