Occlusal & Sports Mouthguards in Tucson, AZ

Store-bought mouthguards are often bulky, uncomfortable, and ineffective. A professionally made appliance offers precise fit, improved wearability, and maximum protection. Whether worn during sleep or sports activities, a custom mouthguard can:

• Reduce stress on jaw joints and muscles
• Minimize wear on enamel caused by clenching or grinding
• Prevent chipped or broken teeth during physical impact
• Protect orthodontic appliances and dental restorations
• Improve breathing and speech compared to over-the-counter options

Dr. Alyssa Holmes, Dr. Karley Schneider, and Dr. Alexander Ordoñez design each appliance with your specific needs in mind—ensuring optimal fit, function, and protection.

Many people grind or clench their teeth at night—a condition known as bruxism—which can cause:

• Headaches upon waking
• Jaw pain and muscle fatigue
• Flattened or worn teeth
• Fractures in enamel or dental restorations
• Tension in the neck and shoulders

Occlusal guards are custom-fit appliances worn during sleep to create a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth. These devices absorb grinding forces, reduce muscle strain, and help prevent long-term damage to your smile.

If you experience morning soreness or have unexplained wear on your teeth, our team may recommend a custom nightguard as part of your TMJ therapy or preventive dental care plan.

For athletes of all ages, contact sports and recreational activities come with an increased risk of dental injury. A professionally made athletic mouthguard provides:

• Protection against broken or knocked-out teeth
• Cushioning to absorb impact and reduce risk of jaw fractures
• A secure fit that stays in place during activity
• Comfort that encourages consistent use

We offer custom sports mouthguards for youth and adults involved in football, hockey, basketball, martial arts, skateboarding, and more. If your child wears braces or has unique bite needs, we create specialized guards to accommodate their orthodontic appliances.

These mouthguards are also great for reducing the risk of concussion by lessening the force transmitted through the jaw during a hit.

Getting a custom mouthguard at Ironwood Dental is a simple, efficient process:

1. Consultation – We assess your needs, whether for night grinding or athletic protection.
2. Digital Impressions – A quick, comfortable scan of your teeth ensures precise fit.
3. Fabrication – The mouthguard is created in a professional lab using high-grade materials.
4. Fitting – We ensure comfort, adjust for bite alignment, and provide care instructions.

With proper care, most mouthguards last several years. However, they should be checked at your routine dental exams to ensure continued effectiveness.

You may benefit from an occlusal or sports guard if you:

• Grind or clench your teeth during sleep
• Have frequent headaches or jaw tension
• Play high-impact or contact sports
• Wear braces or have dental restorations
• Have experienced a previous oral injury
• Are undergoing TMJ treatment

Our team will help determine the most effective solution based on your dental health, lifestyle, and goals.