Night Guards, Mouth Guards & Retainers

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Protect Your Smile with Custom Night Guards, Mouth Guards & Retainers at Dental Partners of Fifth Avenue

Your smile is a valuable asset, and protecting it from damage and maintaining its alignment is crucial for long-term oral health and aesthetics. At Dental Partners of Fifth Avenue, conveniently located on the Upper East Side in New York City, we offer custom-designed night guards, mouth guards, and retainers to address a range of needs, from preventing teeth grinding to safeguarding your smile during sports and ensuring the longevity of orthodontic treatment.

Understanding Night Guards, Mouth Guards & Retainers

  • Night Guards (Occlusal Splints): Custom-fitted oral appliances designed to be worn while sleeping. They act as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing the damaging effects of bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching).   
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  • Mouth Guards (Sports Guards): Durable, custom-made appliances worn during athletic activities. They cushion blows to the face and jaw, significantly reducing the risk of dental injuries, including chipped or broken teeth, and may even lessen the severity of sports-related concussions.
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  • Retainers: Custom appliances, typically made of clear plastic or wires, used after orthodontic treatment (like braces or Invisalign) to hold your teeth in their newly aligned positions. They prevent the natural tendency of teeth to shift back to their original placement, ensuring the long-term stability of your smile. Retainers can also be used in some cases to manage daytime clenching.   

 

cropped view of woman using mouth guard isolated on white
Benefits of Night Guards, Mouth Guards & Retainers:

Who is a Good Candidate?

You may benefit from a night guard if you:

• Grind or clench your teeth at night (bruxism).

• Experience jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking.

• Have frequent headaches or neck aches.

• Notice wear and tear on your teeth.

• Have been diagnosed with TMJ disorder.

 

You are a good candidate for a mouth guard if you:

• Participate in any sport or physical activity where there is a risk of facial impact. This includes contact sports, but also activities like basketball, soccer, and even weightlifting.

• Clench your teeth during exercise or heavy lifting.

 

You need a retainer if you:

• Have recently completed orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign.

• Previously had orthodontic treatment and have noticed your teeth shifting.

• Are looking for a discreet way to manage daytime teeth clenching.

 

How Do Night Guards, Mouth Guards & Retainers Work?

Night Guards: A custom-fitted night guard creates a cushion between your upper and lower teeth. This prevents direct contact and absorbs the forces generated by grinding and clenching, protecting your teeth and jaw joint. Our dentists at Dental Partners of Fifth Avenue will evaluate your bite and the wear patterns on your teeth to recommend the most appropriate type of night guard for your specific needs.

Mouth Guards: Custom mouth guards are designed to fit snugly over your teeth and gums. Upon impact, the material absorbs and distributes the force, preventing direct trauma to your teeth and surrounding tissues. The custom fit ensures the mouth guard stays securely in place during activity, providing optimal protection.

Retainers: After your teeth have been moved into their desired positions through orthodontics, retainers hold them in place. The bone and tissues around your teeth need time to stabilize in their new alignment. Wearing your retainer as prescribed allows this stabilization to occur, preventing relapse and ensuring the longevity of your straight smile.

Getting Started with Night guards, Mouth Guards & Retainers:

Wearing Retainers for Long-Term Success:

Proper care will extend the life of your appliance and maintain good oral hygiene:

  • Rinse and Brush: After each use, rinse your night guard, mouth guard, or retainer under cool, running water and gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Never use toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and create scratches that harbor bacteria.
  • Soak (as needed): Depending on the type of guard or retainer, you may occasionally soak it in an over-the-counter effervescent cleaning solution designed for dental appliances. Follow the product instructions carefully.
  • Store Properly: Always store your appliance in its provided protective case when not in use to prevent damage and contamination.
  • Avoid Heat: Do not expose your appliance to hot water or direct sunlight, as this can cause it to warp or melt.
  • Regular Checkups: Bring your night guard, mouth guard, or retainer to your regular dental appointments at Dental Partners of Fifth Avenue so we can ensure it is still in good condition and fitting properly.

Protect Your Smile Today

Don’t let teeth grinding, sports injuries, or orthodontic relapse compromise your smile. Contact Dental Partners of Fifth Avenue today to learn more about our custom night guards, mouth guards, and retainers. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care and personalized solutions to protect and maintain your healthy, beautiful smile. Schedule your dental consultation at our convenient Upper East Side office today.

Discover the Difference

Your Comfort and Care Are Our Priority

At Dental Partners of Fifth Avenue, we believe that exceptional dental care goes beyond clinical expertise. Treating multiple generations of patients, we’ve created a welcoming environment where your comfort and well-being are paramount. From our gentle approach to our state-of-the-art technology, we’re committed to providing you with a positive and stress-free dental experience. We understand that visiting the dentist can be daunting, and we strive to make every appointment a comfortable and reassuring one.

Expert Care You Can Trust

Our team of highly skilled dentists and specialists brings years of experience and advanced training to every patient. We stay at the forefront of dental advancements to provide you with the most effective and personalized treatments.

Patient-Centered Approach

We prioritize your individual needs and preferences. We take the time to listen, understand your concerns, and develop customized treatment plans that align with your goals and comfort levels.

A Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere

Our friendly and compassionate team is dedicated to making you feel at ease. We believe in building lasting relationships with our patients, creating a comfortable and supportive environment for your dental care.

Join Thousands of Satisfied Patients Who Transformed Their Smiles

Discover why so many multigenerational patients trust Dental Partners of Fifth Avenue for their dental needs. Our expert team provides personalized care in a comfortable environment. Book your appointment and experience the difference.