Occlusal & Sports Mouthguards in Portage Park, Chicago
Custom Protection for Teeth During Activity and At Rest
Mouthguards are a simple yet powerful way to prevent dental damage. Whether you're an athlete or someone who grinds their teeth at night, a properly fitted mouthguard offers protection that over-the-counter options simply can’t match. At 6 Corners Dental Studio, we create custom occlusal and sports mouthguards that fit securely, function comfortably, and shield your teeth from unnecessary stress or injury.
Worn consistently, a mouthguard can help prevent cracked teeth, worn enamel, jaw tension, and costly dental emergencies. We design each device with your needs and lifestyle in mind.
What Are Occlusal and Sports Mouthguards?
While both types of mouthguards serve protective functions, they are designed for different scenarios:
- Occlusal Mouthguards (also known as nightguards) are worn while sleeping. They protect the teeth from nighttime grinding or clenching (bruxism), which can wear down enamel, cause sensitivity, and lead to headaches or jaw pain.
- Sports Mouthguards are designed to protect the teeth and soft tissues during physical activity. They are commonly used by children, teens, and adults involved in contact or high-impact sports.
Custom-fit mouthguards provide significantly better comfort, durability, and effectiveness than store-bought versions. They’re designed to match your bite, which means they’re easier to wear and stay in place when it matters most.
Conditions That Benefit from Occlusal Mouthguards
Nighttime grinding and clenching can cause damage over time — often without the person even realizing it. A custom occlusal guard can help protect against:
- Worn or flattened tooth surfaces
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Jaw tension or TMJ-related pain
- Morning headaches
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Damage to dental restorations like fillings or crowns
If you wake up with jaw discomfort or notice signs of wear on your teeth, Dr. Julienne Hong can evaluate whether an occlusal guard would be beneficial as part of your general dentistry care.
Why Athletes Need Custom Sports Mouthguards
If you or your child participates in sports such as football, basketball, hockey, soccer, or martial arts, a custom sports mouthguard is a smart investment in protection. Dental injuries during sports can be painful and expensive — but they are often preventable.
Benefits of a custom sports mouthguard include:
- Better fit, stability, and breathability compared to boil-and-bite versions
- Protection for teeth, lips, tongue, and jaw
- Reduced risk of concussions and impact-related trauma
- Long-lasting durability even under frequent use
We recommend sports mouthguards for athletes of all ages, including children participating in school or recreational leagues. As part of our pediatric dentistry services, we often fabricate these for younger patients.
What to Expect When Getting a Mouthguard
The process is quick, comfortable, and entirely customized to your needs:
- Consultation and Evaluation
Dr. Hong will assess your bite, jaw alignment, and any concerns related to grinding or sports activity. - Digital Impressions
We take precise digital scans or impressions of your teeth to ensure an accurate fit. - Fabrication
Your custom mouthguard is made using high-quality, durable materials and tailored to your exact bite. - Fitting and Adjustments
When your mouthguard is ready, we’ll check the fit, make any needed adjustments, and walk you through care instructions.
Your new guard will be easy to clean, reusable, and designed to last with proper maintenance. We’ll monitor its condition at your regular dental exams and recommend replacement as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — please bring a valid ID, your insurance card (if applicable), and a list of any current medications.
How do I know if I need a nightguard?
If you wake up with jaw soreness, headaches, or notice signs of enamel wear, you may be grinding your teeth at night. During your exam, we can check for signs of bruxism and determine whether an occlusal guard is right for you.
Can my child wear a sports mouthguard with braces?
Yes. In fact, it’s especially important for children and teens with braces to wear mouthguards during sports to avoid injury to the teeth, brackets, and soft tissues. We can design a guard that accommodates orthodontic appliances.
How long do custom mouthguards last?
With proper care, most mouthguards last several years. However, changes in your bite, jaw growth in children, or wear and tear may require replacement sooner. We’ll assess the fit and function at each checkup.
Are custom mouthguards covered by insurance?
Some dental insurance plans cover part or all of the cost of mouthguards, especially when prescribed for medical reasons like bruxism. Visit our Patient Info page or contact us to verify your coverage.
How do I clean my mouthguard?
We’ll provide detailed care instructions, but generally, you’ll want to rinse it after each use and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush. Let it air dry and store it in a ventilated case.
Protect Your Smile with a Custom Mouthguard
Whether you need relief from nighttime grinding or protection on the playing field, a custom mouthguard from 6 Corners Dental Studio offers superior comfort and peace of mind. Our team, led by Dr. Julienne Hong, is here to help you safeguard your teeth in a way that fits your lifestyle.
Call (773) 481-9455, book online, or contact us here to schedule your mouthguard consultation in Chicago.
