Custom Sports Mouthguards: Protection for Athletes

If you're an athlete, you know the importance of protecting your body during sports and other physical activities. One area that often gets overlooked is the mouth. That's where custom sports mouthguards come in. In this article, we'll discuss what custom sports mouthguards are, why they're important, and how to get one.

What are Custom Sports Mouthguards?

Custom sports mouthguards are protective devices that fit over your teeth and gums to help prevent dental injuries during sports and other physical activities. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, custom sports mouthguards are designed specifically for your teeth and offer a more comfortable and secure fit.

Why Are Custom Sports Mouthguards Important?

Sports-related dental injuries are more common than you might think. According to the American Dental Association, up to 39% of dental injuries are sports-related. These injuries can range from chipped or broken teeth to more serious injuries like jaw fractures and concussions.

Custom sports mouthguards offer several benefits:

Protection: Custom sports mouthguards provide superior protection compared to over-the-counter mouthguards. They are designed to absorb impact and distribute forces evenly, reducing the risk of dental injuries.
Comfort: Custom sports mouthguards are made specifically for your teeth, which means they fit better and are more comfortable to wear.
Performance: A good custom sports mouthguard can actually improve your performance by helping you breathe better and reducing clenching and grinding.

How to Get a Custom Sports Mouthguard

Getting a custom sports mouthguard is a simple process that typically involves the following steps:

Consultation: Your dentist or orthodontist will examine your teeth and discuss your needs to determine if a custom sports mouthguard is right for you.
Impression: If you decide to move forward with a custom sports mouthguard, your dentist or orthodontist will take an impression of your teeth to create a mold.
Fabrication: The mold will be sent to a dental laboratory where your custom sports mouthguard will be fabricated.
Fitting: Once your custom sports mouthguard is ready, you'll return to your dentist or orthodontist for a fitting. They will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.
Maintenance: It's important to properly care for your custom sports mouthguard to keep it in good condition. This includes rinsing it after each use, storing it in a ventilated container, and avoiding exposing it to high temperatures.

Where to Get a Custom Sports Mouthguard

Custom sports mouthguards are available from your dentist or orthodontist. They can be made for athletes of all ages and skill levels, from children just starting out in sports to professional athletes.

The cost of a custom sports mouthguard can vary depending on your location and the complexity of the fabrication process. However, many dental insurance plans cover the cost of custom sports mouthguards, so be sure to check with your insurance provider.

Protect Your Teeth with a Custom Sports Mouthguard

If you're an athlete, don't overlook the importance of protecting your teeth during sports and other physical activities. A custom sports mouthguard can provide superior protection, comfort, and performance compared to over-the-counter mouthguards. Talk to your dentist or orthodontist today about getting a custom sports mouthguard.

The Importance of Mouthguards with Braces: Protecting Your Teeth During Physical Activities

If you have braces, you know that they require extra care and attention to ensure your teeth are properly aligned. But did you know that wearing a mouthguard is just as important for protecting your teeth? In this article, we'll discuss the importance of mouthguards with braces and why you should wear one during physical activities.

Why Wear a Mouthguard with Braces?

Braces are a fixed orthodontic appliance that consists of brackets and wires that are attached to your teeth. This hardware can make your teeth more susceptible to damage during physical activities like sports or even just playing with friends.

A mouthguard helps protect your teeth from impact during these activities. It creates a barrier between your teeth and the inside of your mouth, reducing the risk of broken or damaged teeth, as well as cuts to your cheeks or lips.

In addition, wearing a mouthguard with braces can help prevent damage to your braces themselves. A blow to the mouth can cause brackets or wires to break, which can prolong your treatment time and require additional appointments to fix.