Why might a dentist suggest mouthguards?

Here at Highland Dental Clinic in South Lakeland, Florida, we believe that preserving your smile is crucial for lifelong dental health! This belief underlines the importance of proactive dental care, including proper care for both the teeth and gums. To do this, our team at Highland Dental Clinic offers a wide selection of dental solutions, including mouthguards, available from Dr. Blanca Fernandez and her dedicated team. She provides several different types of oral appliances tailored to protect smiles and improve certain oral health conditions, such as TMJ/TMD and bruxism.

Why would my dentist suggest a mouthguard?

Our South Lakeland, Florida, dentist may recommend the use of mouthguards for various reasons. This means that several different types of mouthguards are available based on the specific goals of the appliance itself. Some of the different types of mouthguards offered include the following:

  • Bruxism mouthguard. If you suffer from bruxism, a condition that results in teeth grinding and jaw clenching, our dental team can enlighten you on the benefits of using a bruxism mouthguard or a “nightguard.” This plastic appliance, worn during sleep, mitigates the risk of teeth and gum damage from clenching and grinding, potentially preventing conditions requiring regular dental treatment.
  • TMJ/TMD mouthguard. If you are afflicted with temporomandibular joint disorder, a mouthguard can cushion your teeth and assist in repositioning your jaw to alleviate discomfort and pain.
  • Sports mouthguard. Become an active participant in high-impact sports like soccer or hockey without risking your dental health. Dr. Blanca Fernandez advocates using custom-made mouthguards during these activities to lower the risk of dental injuries.

Which type of mouthguard is right for me?

When you undergo an evaluation at the practice of Dr. Blanca Fernandez, she will examine your smile and make any recommendations she feels might improve and maintain your oral health and dental wellness. If she spots wear of the natural teeth from bruxism, she may suggest the use of a mouthguard to protect the smile. If you participate in any high-impact sports, an athletic mouthguard might be recommended to reduce the risk of chipped or lost teeth. Your personal needs will dictate the proper appliance for your smile.

Why should I consider discussing my mouthguard options with Dr. Blanca Fernandez and her team?

South Lakeland, Florida, residents can speak to a professional about acquiring a mouthguard by calling our office at (863) 457-1954 to schedule an appointment. Located at 5163 US Highway 98 S. we extend a warm welcome to both new and existing patients seeking comprehensive care. Discover how you can safeguard your smile’s health and aesthetics with the dedicated attention of our skilled, experienced dental team at Highland Dental Clinic. We look forward to providing you with high-quality, personalized mouthguards that serve your unique needs!

Blanca Fernandez, DMD
Blanca Fernandez, DMD

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Dr. Blanca Fernandez is a skilled dentist in Lakeland, FL. She studied general dentistry at the Colombian Dental College and studied prosthodontics and received a Master of Science at the Dentistry Foundation of San Martin in Bogota, Colombia. She earned her Doctorate in Dental Medicine at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. With specialized training in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and oral surgery, Dr. Fernandez is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and member of the American Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, West Coast Dental Association, and Polk County Dental Association.