Dental Mouth Guards

If you are involved in sports and are curious about how a mouth guard could benefit you, these are some things you might be interested to know.

Stock Mouth Protectors

Stock mouth protectors a preformed variety of mouth guard. They are manufactured and sold as ready-to-wear and are a fairly inexpensive option. Stock mouth guards can be purchased at most department stores and sporting goods stores. Unfortunately, stock mouth guards can make breathing difficult and provide minimum protection. Because of this and the fact that little can be done to adjust the way that they fit, dentists do not recommend stock mouth guards.

Boil and Bite Mouth Protectors

Also available at many sporting goods stores, boil and bite mouth protectors offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. Boil and bit mouth protectors work by boiling the thermoplastic material of the mouth guard and the placing it in the mouth to bite down and use tongue pressure to form it to the shape of your mouth.

Custom-Fitted Mouth Protectors

Custom-fitted mouth protectors require a visit to the dentist, but this is well worth it for an individually designed mouth protector that will provide the most comfort and protection. Your dentist will make an impression of your teeth and then a mouth guard will be molded over it. This as well as special instruction from your dentist will result in a mouth protector that is custom designed more your unique needs.

Who Needs a Mouth Guard?

Any person, adult or child, who participates in contact sports like soccer or ice hockey as well as noncontact sports like gymnastics could benefit from a mouth guard. Any activity that poses the threat of injury could be substantially safer with the use of a mouth guard.

Why Use a Mouth Guard When Playing Sports?

Using a mouth guard during sports help to prevent serious injury to the mouth which could result in nerve damage to a tooth, tooth loss, chipped teeth, and broken teeth. Mouth guards also protect the soft tissues of your mouth, such as the tongue and cheeks.

Can I Wear a Mouth Guard if I Wear Braces?

Yes, and it is highly recommended since wearing full metal braces can cause a lot of collateral damage when someone has received a serious blow to the face. You may need to discuss custom fitted options; however, if you are a brace wearer.

How Do I Care for my Mouth Guard?

Rinse your mouth guard in cold water before and after each use. You may use a mild soap and toothbrush if you would like. You should also store the mouth guard in a firm, perforated container when it is not being used. Avoid storing your mouthguard in extremely cold or hot temperatures as this could lead to damage. You may also want to bring your mouth guard with you to your regular dentist appointments so your dentist can assess it for damage.