(928) 641-4000
919 12th Place Suite 7 Prescott, AZ 86305
Retainers & Custom Mouth Guards in Prescott
Retainers and mouthguards are important for protecting teeth and making sure they do not shift. Retainers are usually used after receiving orthodontic care to straighten teeth. They are made to maintain alignment. Mouthguards are used for protecting teeth during physical activities or from grinding at night. If you have any questions or feel that you may benefit from a retainer or mouthguard, give our office a call at (928) 641-4000.
Retainers and Custom Mouthguards in Your Oral Health
There are different types of retainers, which include removable and fixed:
- Removable retainers– This type of retainer is made out of plastic and metal that are custom fit to your mouth. These types are used after braces or aligners to keep the teeth from shifting back.
- Fixed retainers– This type of retainer is a wire that is fixed or permanently placed to the back of the teeth, they also prevent teeth from shifting back after alignment.
Mouthguards are customized for each patient either here at our practice or at the dental lab based on the dentist’s specific treatment plan. Both retainers and mouthguards have many benefits which would include preventing teeth from shifting after treatment like braces and protecting the teeth from dental injuries during physical activities or sports. Taking care of the appliances will help maintain how effective they are, and the longevity of the appliance.
Common Myths
Myth: Retainers are only for children.
Fact: Retainers are used for patients of all ages who have had orthodontic treatment. They are used to maintain the positioning of the teeth and prevent them from shifting back.
Myth: Over-the-counter mouthguards are just as good.
Fact: There are many over-the-counter options available. However, our mouthguards are the best because they are custom-fitted to your mouth to provide the best protection, comfort, and durability.
Myth: Retainers only need to be worn for a short time.
Fact: This will depend on your specific treatment plan. Some patients only need to wear them for a certain period of time while others need to wear them forever in order to maintain alignment.
Retainers and custom mouthguards are important for anyone who is looking to maintain their straight, healthy teeth and protect their smile. If you believe that you are in need of a retainer or mouthguard, give our office a call to schedule a consultation at (928) 641-4000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Retainers are a custom-made orthodontic devices that are made out of wires, or plastic. They are made to keep your teeth in place and to keep them from shifting after braces or other orthodontic treatments.
This can depend on your specific treatment plan. In some cases, you may need to wear it all the time, and then later, only wear it at night. The orthodontist will be sure to go over specific instructions after you get your braces off.
The care of the retainers can include cleaning them regularly with warm water and a toothbrush. Make sure that the water is not hot as it can warp the plastic. Store the retainers in the specified case when you are not using them to make sure that they stay in a safe place. Try to avoid wrapping it in a napkin as it is common for the retainers to be accidentally thrown away.
Our mouthguards are custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly. They are used to protect the teeth and gums from getting injured during sports or to prevent the teeth from getting injured from teeth grinding.
Custom mouth guards are made to fit perfectly into your mouth. This will provide the best protection and coverage for your teeth which is the most effective compared to the over-the-counter options.
This can depend on how the devices are cared for. With the proper care, they can usually last for many years. However, mouthguards typically need to be replaced more frequently.
Yes. It is recommended to get a custom-made mouthguard, even if you have braces. This will ensure that your teeth and gums are protected from damage or injury.
If the retainer or mouthguard does not fit anymore, it is important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. If the devices do not fit properly, it can cause the device to be less effective and require adjustments or a new fitting.
We recommend that the mouthguard be replaced every season or at least once a year to make sure that your teeth are properly protected. For younger children and teens, it may be necessary to get them replaced more often since their mouths, teeth, and jaw are still developing.
This will depend on the specific insurance provider and insurance plan. It’s best to give your insurance provider a call to get the exact details of the benefits. Our team will also be sure to help you answer any questions you may have about your benefits.
BOOKING HOURS
M 8-2 | Tu 9-4 | Wed 7-4 | Th 8-4 | Fr 9-12
We are OPEN for ALL dental care procedures and emergency needs. Protecting the health and safety of our patients, families, and team members remains our number one priority.
In-house Discount Plan*
$119.95/yr/individual & $179.95/yr/family with discounts of 20%-30% off all services.
*Sign up in office, requires upfront payment to qualify for discounts.
$19.95 Exam and X-Rays^
For New Patients without insurance we offer a great rate on your first Exam & set of X-Rays.
^For New Patients that do not have dental insurance. New patients must be 18 or older to receive this discount. Discounts cannot be combined with other offers or dental discount plans. Additional fees may be included in individual cases.
$500 off Orthodontics^^
For New Patients without insurance we offer a great rate on your first Exam & set of X-Rays.
^^For new patients without dental insurance. Once per patient.
Horizon Dental of Prescott
