Where To Buy Mouth Guard In Singapore 2024

In Singapore, there are multiple options available for buying a mouth guard. Dental clinics are a primary choice as they offer custom mouth guards that provide optimal fit and protection. This is achieved by customising the mouth guards to match the specific shape and size of your teeth. Other options include online retail stores and physical shops like pharmacies and sports stores.

Given the wide variety of mouth guards available, each designed for different purposes, it's wise to consult with a dentist to ensure you select the correct one for your needs. For instance, a night guard is intended for teeth grinding during sleep to prevent temporomandibular joint disorders, while a sports guard prevents injuries during physical activities and sports. Although these may look similar, they have distinct differences and serve different purposes. Using the wrong type can cause discomfort and provide inadequate protection.

What are dental mouth guards?

Dental mouth guards are protective devices that are worn to prevent injury or damage to teeth. They are typically made of plastic or rubber materials, designed to fit snugly over the upper teeth, covering part of the gums. Custom-made mouth guards are shaped specifically to match the contours of your teeth and gums, offering an accurate fit, while over-the-counter versions are often more generic. They are usually clear or translucent, though some may come in various colors. Depending on its purpose, it may be thin or thicker to accommodate different needs, such as guards for sports (contact/non-contact sports), grinding teeth at night, jaw pain or to protect teeth during sleep.

Why do I need a mouth guard in 2024?

Our teeth are essential for many daily activities, such as eating, speaking, and smiling. Even losing a single tooth can be detrimental to our health! Therefore, protecting them is crucial to maintaining good oral health, overall well-being and to prevent avoidable dental treatments. You need a mouth guard for several important reasons, depending on your lifestyle and specific needs:

1. Protection During Sports: If you participate in sports (like football, rugby, boxing, or hockey) or recreational activities (like skateboarding or mountain biking), a sports mouthguard provides optimal protection to mouth from injury. Sports mouth guards are also known as athletic mouth guards. They help reduce the risk of dental injuries such as chipped teeth, tooth loss, mouth lacerations, and even jaw joints and jaw injuries.

2. Protection Against Teeth Grinding: If you suffer from bruxism (severe or mild bruxism), which is a condition characterised by grinding and clenching your teeth during sleep, a dental night guard can protect your teeth from wear and tear. This can prevent damage to your teeth surfaces, reduce tension headaches, and alleviate jaw pain or discomfort associated with temporomandibular disorders or jaw disorders.

3. Improved Sleep: For those who suffer from sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, a sleep apnea guard can help. Symptoms include snoring, interrupted sleep, and feeling tired during the day despite getting enough rest. A sleep apnea guard works by repositioning the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open, improving sleep quality and preventing health issues related to sleep apnea.

Investing in a mouth guard can help prevent costly and painful dental treatments down the line. By protecting your teeth and jaw, you can maintain better overall oral health and avoid issues related to tooth damage or TMJ disorders.

What are the types of mouth guards available?

Stock Mouth Guards

These pre-formed mouth guards are available off the shelf in standard sizes (small, medium, large) for immediate use but offer minimal protection and comfort due to their non-customised fit.

Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards

Made from thermoplastic material, these guards soften in hot water and can be shaped by biting into them. While they offer a better fit than stock guards, they require effort to mold and may need frequent replacement.

Custom-made Mouth Guards

They are individually made by a dentist based on a dental impression of your teeth and offer optimal fit, comfort and protection. The custom mouth guards are the most expensive option but provide optimal comfort and long-term durability compared to stock and boil-and-bite options.

Read more about the different types (stock, boil-and-bite and custom mouth guards) here.

Where to buy mouth guard in Singapore?

In Singapore, mouth guards are available from various places such as:

1) Dental Clinics

Dental clinics in Singapore offer custom-fitted mouth guards specifically made for you. Dentists take impressions of your teeth to ensure a perfect fit, providing optimal protection and comfort. At Dental Designs Clinic, we take a step further by providing a variety of mouth guards designed for specific needs such as teeth grinding (bruxism), sports and sleep apnea. These mouth guards are made in our in-house dental laboratory, ensuring strict quality control for optimal fit and performance.

For example, our Soft and DuraAir mouth guards are ideal for people who are new to wearing guards and have mild to moderate teeth grinding. For those who need a more durable and accurate fit, we offer the Dura3D Mouth Guard, made using advanced 3D printing technology for improved strength. Additionally, the DuraMax Mouth Guard, made with precision milling technology, can highly resist wear and tear and are suited for heavy teeth grinders, though it comes at a higher cost.

During a dental check-up, our dentists will carefully examine your teeth and discuss your dental treatment and which mouth guard is best for you. This personalised approach ensures that you get a mouth guard that fits well and provides the protection you need for healthy teeth and overall well-being.

Related Articles

• What is the purpose of a mouth guard: Why It Matters

• How to choose the right athletic mouth guard for sports

2) Physical Stores: Pharmacies or Sports Stores

Over-the-counter mouth guards available in physical stores may be a convenient and cost-effective option. You will be able to purchase one without a prescription. These mouth guards are usually pre-formed and come in standard sizes, offering a one-size-fits-all solution. They may also offer boil-and-bite mouth guards, which are made from a thermoplastic material that softens when heated in hot water. Once softened, you bite into the mouth guard to shape it around your teeth, providing a semi-custom fit.

These over-the-counter ones are typically more affordable than custom mouth guards from a dental clinic. However, they do not offer the same level of customisation and comfort. Since they are not specifically made for your teeth's shape and size, they may not fit well, which can cause discomfort and difficulty in breathing or speaking. Additionally, they do not offer the same level of protection as custom-fitted guards, as they may not cover all your teeth properly or provide the right amount of cushioning.

3) Online retailers

Online retailers like Amazon, Lazada and Shopee offer a plethora of options when it comes to purchasing mouth guards. They provide a platform where you can browse through various types of mouth guards, including stock and boil-and-bite options, from the comfort of your own home. However, while online shopping offers convenience, it's important to be cautious and conduct thorough research before making a purchase.

Some online sellers may offer mouth guards at a cheaper price but they may not provide the level of protection and quality assurance that you would get from a dental clinic. Purchasing a mouth guard online without proper research could result in receiving a product that doesn't fit properly or doesn't meet your specific needs.

Conclusion

In summary, when deciding to buy a mouth guard, consider factors like budget, availability, convenience and your specific needs. It's wise to consult with a dental professional before purchasing, as custom-fitted mouthguards offer maximum protection and comfort. With the wide variety of mouth guards available, ensure you choose one that matches your specific requirements to prevent any potential issues.

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