Mouthguards
It is estimated that more than 5 million teeth are knocked out each year. Many of these injuries occur during sporting activities. A properly fitting mouthguard provides significant protection from dental injuries. Anyone who participates in a sport that carries a significant risk of injury should wear a mouth protector. Mouthguards, which typically cover the upper teeth, can cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth.
Types of mouthguards
- Stock: Stock mouth protectors are inexpensive and come pre-formed, ready to wear. Unfortunately, they often don’t fit very well. They can be bulky and make breathing and talking difficult.
- Boil and bite: Boil and bite mouth protectors, which can be bought at many sporting goods stores, may offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. They are softened in hot water, then shaped around your teeth. If you don’t follow the directions carefully, you can wind up with a poor-fitting mouth protector. This style of mouthguard is not very durable and easily deformed leaving it minimal protective value.
- Custom-fitted: Custom-fitted mouth protectors are made by your dentist for you personally. They are more expensive than the other options. However, because they are customized to fit snugly around your teeth and are made of high-quality material, they offer far better protection than anything you can buy off the shelf.
Dr. Mead makes custom-fitted mouthguards in his office. Please call our office to set up an impression appointment for your athlete or team.