It’s back-to-school time, and for many students, that means back to sports! Playing school sports is a great way to stay active, build teamwork skills and represent your school.
However, sports come with the risk of injury, and one of the most common is damage to your teeth and mouth. More than 3 million teeth are knocked out each year due to playing sports. The good news is that a custom mouthguard can prevent the majority of mouth injuries.
What Exactly Is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a flexible plastic device that fits over the teeth to protect them from impact. When inserted correctly, it acts as a barrier to prevent the upper teeth from striking the lower teeth during impacts. This absorption of shock prevents chips, fractures and even complete tooth loss. Mouthguards may sometimes feel bulky, but they are a small price to pay for keeping your smile intact!
Mouthguards protect more than just the teeth though. They can prevent fractures of the root as well as concussions by minimizing the shock transferred to the jaw, neck and head after an impact, which is ideal for contact sports. They also hold the soft tissue of lips and cheeks away from the teeth, preventing lacerations inside the mouth.
Why Are Custom Guards Better Than Store-Bought Ones?
You can find generic boil-and-bite mouthguards at most stores, but dentists recommend custom-made, individually-fitted mouthguards instead. Here’s why:
Comfort
A custom guard is tailored precisely to the shape of your teeth and mouth using an oral mold. This results in a snug but comfortable fit. Boil-and-bite guards are bulky and can make breathing and talking difficult.
Retention
Properly fitted custom guards stay firmly in place even when you pant, talk or get hit. Store-bought versions are loose and often fall out.
Durability
The acrylic material of a custom guard is stronger and is able to sustain high impacts from sports. Generic versions tend to be thinner and weaker.
Protection
The exact fit of a custom guard offers more complete shock absorption. Store-bought guards have gaps that reduce protection.
Appearance
Custom guards can be created in your school colors with a logo or other graphic design. Generic guards look basic and boring!
Proper Wear and Care
To get the most out of your custom mouthguard, follow these wear and care guidelines:
- Wear it consistently, especially at practices where most mouth injuries occur. Contact sports like football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse and wrestling require maximum protection.
- Get in the habit of inserting your mouthguard before practices and games so it feels natural. Keep your gear bag stocked with backup guards in case of loss or breakage.
- Bring your mouthguard to all dental visits for inspection, especially if you’ve had any recent tooth extractions or orthodontic adjustments. Ill-fitting guards lose their protective abilities.
- Clean your guard at least once a week using antibacterial soap and a toothbrush. Rinse under warm water. Soap helps remove bacteria, food and odors.
- Occasionally clean with denture cleaner or mouthguard cleaner for a deeper clean. Avoid hot water or bleach, which can warp the shape.
- Store in a well-ventilated case when not in use. Change cases frequently to avoid bacterial growth.
- Don’t eat or chew on your guard. The biting pressure can cause cracks and warping.
Replace Guards Each Season for Optimal Protection
The constant impact from sports can cause mouthguards to wear down over a season of play. Replace yours yearly to ensure the material remains protective.
Parents: Mouthguard replacement is especially important for younger athletes whose jaw and dental growth is still developing.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Chipped, broken or lost teeth can cause pain, high dental bills and permanent tooth loss. But mouthguards are an easy way to avoid these issues often caused by sports dental injuries.
Talk to Dr. Cam-Tu and her team about getting your budding athletes fitted for a custom mouthguard before the season starts. The first step to protecting your radiant smile for life is by scheduling an appointment with Radiance Dental.
Radiance Dental 