Sports Guard
 A sports mouthguard is a flexible, often rubber-like appliance worn over the teeth to protect the oral structures from injury during physical activity. There are three primary types of mouthguards:
| • |
Stock mouthguards: Pre-formed and ready to wear, these are the least expensive but offer the least protection and comfort since they are not customized to fit the player's mouth.
|
| • |
Boil-and-bite mouthguards: Made from a thermoplastic material, these are placed in hot water to soften and then molded to the shape of the athlete's teeth by biting down.
|
| • |
Custom-made mouthguards: Fabricated by a dentist, these offer the best fit, comfort, and protection. They are made from impressions of the patient's teeth, ensuring a tailored fit. |
While stock and boil-and-bite mouthguards are more affordable and accessible, custom mouthguards provide the most comprehensive protection and are recommended for high-risk athletes.
What Are Mouthguards Used For?
The primary purpose of a sports mouthguard is to prevent dental and facial injuries during physical activity. The most common injuries that mouthguards help prevent include:
| • |
Tooth fractures or loss: A blow to the face can crack, chip, or knock out teeth. A mouthguard provides a cushion that disperses the force of impact, minimizing the likelihood of damage.
|
| • |
Soft tissue injuries: Mouthguards protect the lips, tongue, and cheeks from lacerations caused by the sharp edges of teeth during an impact.
|
| • |
Jaw fractures: By absorbing and redistributing force, mouthguards can reduce the risk of fractures to the jaw.
|
| • |
Concussions: Some studies suggest that mouthguards may help reduce the severity of concussions by stabilizing the jaw and cushioning blows to the head. |
How Are Mouthguards Made?
For those opting for a custom-made mouthguard, the process begins with a visit to the dentist:
| • |
Impression: Our doctors will take an impression of the athlete's teeth using a dental putty or digital scanner. This impression is sent to a dental lab where the mouthguard is fabricated.
|
| • |
Mouthguard creation: In the lab, technicians use the impression to create a model of the athlete's teeth. Layers of protective material are then molded over the model to form the mouthguard.
|
| • |
Fitting and adjustments: Once the mouthguard is ready, we will ensure it fits snugly and comfortably. Any necessary adjustments are made to provide optimal comfort and protection. |
How Long Does a Mouthguard Last?
The lifespan of a sports mouthguard depends on how frequently it is used and how well it is maintained. For children and teenagers, who are still growing, mouthguards may need replacement more frequently, usually once a year.
For adults, a well-maintained mouthguard can last several seasons, though athletes in high-contact sports may need replacements sooner due to wear and tear. It's important to inspect the mouthguard regularly for signs of damage, such as cracks or thinning areas, which can compromise its protective qualities.
How to Maintain a Mouthguard
Proper care of a mouthguard is crucial to its longevity and effectiveness. Here's how to keep it in good condition:
| • |
Rinse the mouthguard with cool water or mouthwash immediately after use.
|
| • |
Clean the mouthguard with a toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or soak it in a denture-cleaning solution.
|
| • |
Keep the mouthguard in a ventilated container to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
|
| • |
Do not expose the mouthguard to direct sunlight or hot water, as this can warp the material. |
If you or your child are in need of a custom-made sports mouthguard, contact us today at (971) 374-5600. |
