Sports Mouthguards
 The experts at McDonald Dental understand that certain sports can cause trauma to the mouth, causing lacerations and bleeding, and also fracture or dislodge your teeth. That is the reason why they recommend sports mouthguards for people who play such sports.
Sports mouthguards, also known as mouth protectors or sports guards are devices that players wear over their teeth to protect them from possible dental traumas. These devices are very important for people participating in sports that involve body contact, flying equipment, or falls. Some of the games include basketball, baseball, football, gymnastics, and mountain biking.
Typically, sports mouthguards are designed to cover your upper teeth and can protect you against cut lips, broken teeth, and other damage. Patients with braces or other types of fixed dental appliances like dental bridges on their lower jaw should visit out offices for consultation before getting a mouthguard.
Types of Sports Mouthguards
When selecting a mouthguard, it should be tear-resistant, comfortable, and resilient. The mouthguard should fit well and not affect your breathing or speech. Here are three types of mouthguard options.
Stock Mouthguards
Stock mouthguards are not expensive, and they usually come pre-formed. This means that they are ready to be worn immediately. However, many patients do complain that these mouthguards do not fit well. They tend to be bulky and can make talking and breathing a challenge.
Boil-And-Bite Mouthguards
These sports mouthguards have an already pre-formed shape, and you change it by boiling it in water and then biting it. This helps in giving your mouthguard a customized fitting. Although a better option than stock mouthguards, we do not highly recommend this option, as they are not durable. If you do decide to go with boil-and-bite mouthguards, make sure that you carefully follow the instructions to avoid damaging them and encourage a better fit.
Custom-Made Mouthguards
At our offices, we design customized mouthguards to correctly fit your mouth. As a result, custom-made mouthguards are bound to offer the best protection, as well as the most comfortable fitting. When you visit our offices and choose this option, one of our professionals will take an impression of your teeth, which he or she shall use to create a mouthguard. Since customized mouthguards feel and fit better, most people prefer them to the other two types. Though these mouthguards can be expensive, their longevity ensures the best value for money.
How Long Do Mouthguards Last?
You should replace your mouthguard each season since it can become worn down with time, which reduces its effectiveness. This replacement is essential for adolescents since their mouths are continually growing and their teeth are developing. Therefore, you should make sure that you visit our offices at least once in every six months to get a new replacement for your mouthguard that conforms to your most current dental formula.
Contact our experienced professionals here at McDonald Dental at (346) 250-3575 for more information about sports mouthguards. Our experts will be more than willing to assist you in getting a mouthguard that will offer your teeth the best protection as you play. |
