Sports guards, mouth guards and mouth protectors are various names for the exact same thing: a device worn over your teeth that protects them from blows to the face and head.
What Are Dental Mouthguards for Sports
Mouth guards are a crucial piece of athletic equipment for anyone participating in a sport that involves falls, body contact or flying devices. This includes football, basketball, baseball, soccer, hockey, skateboarding, gymnastics, mountain cycling– any activity that may lead to an injury to the mouth.
Mouth guards usually cover the upper teeth, and are developed to protect against broken teeth, cut lips and other damage to your mouth. If you use braces or other fixed dental home appliances (such as a bridge) on your lower jaw, your dental professional might recommend a mouth protector for these teeth too.
What Are the Differences Between Sports and Dental Mouth Guards
No matter which type of mouth guard you choose, it needs to be resistant, tear-resistant and comfy. It ought to also fit correctly and not restrict your speech or breathing. The 3 types of mouth guards are:
- Personalized mouth guards: These are individually designed and made in your dental practitioner’s office or an expert dental laboratory. Not surprisingly, they are most likely to provide the most comfy fit and best protection. Your dental professional makes an impression of your teeth and after that constructs the mouth guard over a model of them. Due to the fact that they fit and feel much better, most professional athletes choose personalized mouth guards. However, they are also the most costly.
- Boil and bite mouth guards: These come in a pre-formed shape that can be modified by boiling the mouth guard in water, then biting into the warm plastic for a tailored fit. They can be purchased numerous sporting goods stores, and may offer a much better fit than stock mouth protectors. Follow the directions thoroughly to prevent ending up with a poor-fitting mouth guard.
- Stock mouth guards: These are economical and come pre-formed, ready to use. Sadly, they often don’t fit effectively. They can be large and may make breathing and talking hard.
How Long Should Mouth Guards Last?
Mouth guards should preferably be replaced after each season because they can use down with time, making them less effective. Replacement is specifically essential for teenagers because their mouths continue to grow and teeth continue to become their adult years. Lots of professional athletes who play several sports have new mouth guards made when they opt for their six-month dental examination.