Dr. Karey Kusuhara is dedicated to keeping your smile healthy and protected from injuries. One of the essential services we provide here at Kusuhara Family Dentistry is custom sports mouth guards. These mouth guards are designed to fit snugly over your teeth, providing optimal protection while you engage in sports and other physical activities.
Your Experienced Sports Dentist in Northridge
Dr. Kusuhara is a specially trained sports dentist, and is closely affiliated with a number of athletic organizations, including the Academy of Sports Dentistry, where she works to provide athletes with mouth guards that will protect their teeth and smile as well as enhance their performance. Dr. Kusuhara understands the value of preventing injury, and works one-on-one with her patients to design mouth guards that offer maximum protection as well as a comfortable fit.
Who Should Wear a Sports Guard?
Anyone who plays a sport can benefit from wearing an athletic mouth guard. These mouth guards are vital and often required equipment in high-contact sports such as football, hockey, wrestling and rugby. However, it is recommended that athletes of all disciplines wear this device, even when participating in an individual sport such as mountain biking or rock climbing.
Your sports guard serves as a protective barrier for your teeth, reducing your risk of dental injuries such as chipped or knocked-out teeth, as well as soft tissue injuries to the tongue, lips, cheeks and gums. While you can purchase generic mouth guards at most sporting goods stores, a custom sports guard will offer superior protection as it is tailored to fit your unique dental structure.
Wearing a sports mouth guard can prevent numerous dental emergencies, saving you from pain and costly treatments. Our dentist will take the time to create a guard that is both comfortable and durable, so you can focus on your game without worrying about your dental safety.
We welcome you to contact us at 818-772-7720 to make your appointment with our skilled dentist and learn more about sports mouth guards in Northridge, California, and how they can protect your smile. We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy, injury-free smile!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are sports mouth guards?
Sports mouth guards are protective devices worn over the teeth to shield them from injury during sports and physical activities. They are typically made from durable materials that can absorb and distribute the impact of blows to the face, reducing the risk of dental trauma. Custom-made mouth guards offer the best fit and protection, tailored specifically to your dental structure.
How do sports mouth guards benefit me?
Sports mouth guards provide crucial protection for your teeth, gums and jaw during physical activities. They help prevent dental injuries such as chipped, broken or knocked-out teeth. Additionally, they protect the soft tissues of your mouth, like your lips, cheeks and tongue, from cuts and bruises. Wearing a mouth guard can save you from painful injuries and costly dental repairs.
Do I need mouth guards for both my upper and lower teeth?
Generally, mouth guards are designed to protect the upper teeth because they are more exposed and at higher risk for injury. However, in some cases, especially if you have braces or other dental appliances on your lower teeth, our sports dentist might recommend guards for both upper and lower teeth for comprehensive protection.
How often should I replace my sports mouth guard?
It is recommended to replace your sports mouth guard at least once a year or when it shows signs of wear and tear. For growing children and teenagers, more frequent replacements may be necessary to accommodate changes in their dental structure. Regular replacements ensure optimal protection and hygiene.
How do I care for my appliance?
Proper care for your sports mouth guard involves rinsing it with cold water or a mouth rinse before and after each use. Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and toothpaste, and store it in a ventilated container to prevent bacterial growth. Avoid exposing it to high temperatures, which can warp its shape.
Can I wear a sports guard with braces?
Yes, you can wear a sports guard with braces. In fact, it is highly recommended to protect both your teeth and orthodontic appliances. Custom-fitted guards are available for those with braces, providing comfortable and effective protection while accommodating the brackets and wires of the braces.
How much do sports mouth guards cost?
The cost of sports mouth guards can vary depending on whether they are over the counter or custom-made. A custom-made mouth guard, which offers superior fit and protection, will be more expensive, and costs can range between $100 and $300. While this may be more expensive initially, wearing a custom sports guard will save you money in the long run as it prevents injury and will save you from the cost of repairing or replacing a tooth.
What areas do you serve?
Our sports dentist, Dr. Kusuhara, provides athletic mouth guards in Northridge, California, and the surrounding areas of Los Angeles, including Chatsworth, Granada Hills, Granada Hills North, Reseda, San Fernando, West Hills and Winnetka, California. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment!