Occlusal & Sports Mouthguards in St. Louis Park, MN

Why Custom Mouthguards Matter

Over-the-counter guards may seem convenient, but they can be bulky, loose, or ineffective. A properly fitted dental mouthguard is more than just a barrier — it’s a form of preventive care that can help you avoid dental emergencies, joint problems, and costly repairs down the road.

At Creekside Dental, our mouthguards are made to match your exact bite, ensuring:

• Superior comfort
• Enhanced protection
• Easier breathing and speaking
• Fewer adjustments over time

Our digital impression technology makes the process fast, accurate, and mess-free.

Occlusal Guards for Bruxism and TMJ Disorders

If you clench or grind your teeth — especially at night — you may benefit from a custom occlusal guard. Also known as a nightguard or bite splint, this device fits snugly over your teeth to prevent wear and protect your jaw joints from tension and stress.

Occlusal guards are commonly recommended for patients experiencing:

• Nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Jaw pain or tightness
• Headaches or facial soreness in the morning
• Worn or cracked teeth
• TMJ disorder symptoms

Left untreated, bruxism can cause serious damage to your enamel, lead to fractured restorations, and worsen joint issues. A custom-fitted guard helps absorb the pressure of grinding and gives your jaw muscles a chance to relax.

Athletic Mouthguards for Youth and Adult Athletes

If you or your child participates in sports, a custom sports mouthguard is one of the most important pieces of equipment you can wear. Unlike store-bought versions, a professionally made guard provides optimal protection without interfering with breathing or communication.

We recommend sports mouthguards for:

• Football, hockey, and lacrosse
• Basketball, soccer, and baseball
• Martial arts, wrestling, and boxing
• Skateboarding, mountain biking, and other high-impact activities

A custom mouthguard helps prevent:

• Chipped or knocked-out teeth
• Lip and cheek injuries
• Jaw fractures
• Concussions (by absorbing shock)

Our children’s dentistry services include mouthguard fittings for young athletes. We'll make sure the guard fits properly and make adjustments as your child grows or their bite changes.

The Process: What to Expect

Getting a custom-fitted mouthguard at Creekside Dental is a simple, efficient process:

1. Consultation and Evaluation
   We'll assess your needs — whether it's protection from grinding or sports-related trauma — and determine the best type of guard for your lifestyle.
2. Digital Impressions
   Using advanced digital scanning, we’ll take precise images of your teeth to create a comfortable, accurate fit.
3. Custom Fabrication
   Your guard is made in a trusted dental lab from durable, biocompatible materials that hold up to regular use.
4. Fitting and Adjustments
   We’ll ensure the final appliance fits properly, doesn’t interfere with your bite, and is easy to wear. Adjustments are made in-office as needed.
5. Care Instructions
   We’ll show you how to clean and store your guard to maximize its lifespan and effectiveness.

Long-Term Protection for Your Teeth and Joints

Whether you’re dealing with jaw discomfort or preparing for the next season, a custom mouthguard can be an essential part of your oral health strategy. It’s also a proactive way to avoid the need for future treatments like dental crowns, fillings, or root canals caused by damage from grinding or trauma.

Our team — including Dr. Gabe De Los Rios and Dr. Robert Laing — will help you determine if an occlusal or sports guard is right for your needs.

And if you're uninsured, our Membership Plan offers an affordable way to stay on top of preventive care, including mouthguard consultations and checkups.

Serving St. Louis Park and Nearby Communities

Located in St. Louis Park, Creekside Dental proudly serves patients from Edina, Hopkins, Golden Valley, Richfield, and nearby Minneapolis neighborhoods including Bryn Mawr and West Calhoun. We provide high-quality, personalized dental appliances that are built for both comfort and protection.