Mouthguards are protective dental appliances worn to protect your teeth from injury during sports or other activities. Mouthguards are especially important if you wear orthodontic appliances or you have fixed bridgework.
Mouthguards can be made in a variety of materials, including soft plastic, hard plastic, and acrylic, as per personal preferences. They can either be bought over the counter or get customized by a dental practice. Store-bought mouthguards tend to be ill-fitting, which can cause them to shift, dislodge, or even break during use. Custom mouthguards are molded to the exact shape of your mouth, ensuring a snug, secure fit.
What are the advantages of a mouthguard?
A mouthguard can protect your teeth and gums in several ways. First, it can prevent broken teeth during contact sports or other activities where you may collide with other players or objects. Second, it can prevent injuries to your lips, tongue, and cheeks. It can prevent damage to your gums by cushioning them against contact with hard objects such as your braces or teeth grinding. Finally, it also makes it easier to breathe and speak while exercising.
The American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend that children wear mouthguards for sports to help prevent dental injuries. Unprotected sports include basketball, wrestling, soccer, baseball, volleyball, gymnastics, lacrosse, in-line skating, taekwondo, boxing, skateboarding, skiing, and snowboarding. Mouthguards should also be worn for non-contact sports, including gymnastics, skating, and martial arts, such as karate.
A mouthguard can help protect your mouth from dental injuries. Mouthguards, dental night guards, and athletic mouthguards are all made of strong, durable materials. They also position your jaw in a way that could protect your teeth and jaw from injury during sports, while you sleep, or during any athletic activity.
What are the different types of mouthguards?
There are three types of mouthguards available:
- Boil and bite mouthguards:these are made from thin plastic and are softened with water and placed in the mouth to form the shape.
- Custom-fitted mouthguards: these are made from impressions taken of your teeth. They are generally the most expensive option and provide the best protection for teeth and jaw.
- Pre-formed mouthguards:these are purchased from a dentist or sporting goods shop. They are made to fit your mouth but do not offer the best fit like a custom-made mouthguard.
How do I clean my mouthguard?
Rinse your mouthguard with water to remove bacteria. Then, place your mouthguard in a denture cleaner or with mouthwash. This will remove all of the bacteria and odors from your mouthguard.
From there, you can rinse your mouthguard with water and put it back in your mouth.
How often should I replace my mouthguard?
Mouthguards should be replaced every few years. If you play contact sports, we recommend replacing your mouthguard more often. This is because a mouthguard that is worn down will not properly protect your teeth.
A custom mouthguard will be much more comfortable to wear and is safer to wear than a generic store-bought mouthguard. Custom mouthguards will also fit better and are less likely to come loose while you are playing.
Pharr Road Dentistry is equipped with the latest technologies and efficient dentists who offer the best dental care facilities to patients. Call 404.261.1486 and book an appointment with the Dentist in Atlanta, GA to know more about dental care services and to receive a complete dental checkup for you and your family.
