Occlusal & Sports Mouthguards in Elkhorn, NE

What Are Occlusal and Sports Mouthguards?

Though they serve different purposes, both types of mouthguards are designed to safeguard your teeth:

Occlusal Mouthguards (Night Guards)

Also called bite splints, these are worn while sleeping to protect against teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching. They help reduce:

• Tooth wear and enamel damage
• Jaw pain and tension
• Morning headaches
• Risk of cracked or fractured teeth
• TMJ-related symptoms

We design these guards to fit comfortably and support proper jaw alignment overnight.

Sports Mouthguards

These are worn during athletic activities to shield teeth, gums, and jawbones from trauma. They’re essential for:

• Contact sports (football, basketball, hockey)
• Solo impact sports (skateboarding, BMX, martial arts)
• Recreational activities with risk of falls or collisions

Our custom-fit sports mouthguards offer more protection and better fit than store-bought versions — reducing the risk of chipped teeth, lip injuries, and even concussions.

Why Choose a Custom Mouthguard?

While drugstore options may seem convenient, they often fall short in both comfort and protection. A professionally made mouthguard from Mizner Family Dental offers:

• A precise, secure fit tailored to your teeth
• Higher durability for long-term use
• Easier breathing and speaking
• Better retention (less likely to fall out during sleep or sports)
• Reduced irritation compared to bulky or ill-fitting guards

By investing in a custom occlusal or sports guard, you're taking proactive steps to protect your teeth, jaw, and overall oral health.

The Mouthguard Process at Mizner Family Dental

Here’s what you can expect when you come in for a custom mouthguard:

1. Consultation & Evaluation
   We’ll assess your bite, discuss symptoms like grinding or sports participation, and determine which type of guard is right for you.
2. Digital Impressions
   Using modern dental technology, we take highly accurate digital scans of your teeth — no messy molds needed.
3. Custom Fabrication
   Your impressions are sent to a dental lab where your guard is created from high-quality materials. This ensures both fit and durability.
4. Final Fitting
   Once your mouthguard is ready, we’ll make any small adjustments to ensure comfort and function before sending you home with care instructions.

Signs You May Need an Occlusal Guard

Not sure if you’re grinding your teeth? Common signs include:

• Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
• Jaw stiffness or soreness upon waking
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Headaches or neck tension in the morning
• Clicking or popping in the jaw joints

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, a custom night guard could protect your teeth and help you feel better each morning.

Pediatric and Teen Mouthguards Available

Children and teens involved in sports are especially vulnerable to oral injuries. At Mizner Family Dental, we also offer custom children’s sports mouthguards designed to protect developing smiles.

We integrate this service as part of our broader children’s dentistry offerings and can often complete scans during a regular visit.

Keeping Your Mouthguard Clean and Effective

Proper care can extend the life of your mouthguard and maintain its protective qualities. We’ll provide specific instructions, but general tips include:

• Rinsing after each use
• Brushing gently with a soft toothbrush
• Storing it in a ventilated container
• Bringing it to appointments for periodic evaluation

Mouthguards should be replaced every 1–2 years, or sooner if they become worn or damaged.

Conveniently Serving Elkhorn and Nearby Communities

Our office at 2929 N. 204th St in Elkhorn, NE proudly serves patients from:

• Omaha
• Papillion
• La Vista
• Bellevue
• Surrounding neighborhoods

Whether you’re managing teeth grinding or prepping for the next sports season, we’re here to help you protect your smile — comfortably and professionally.