Any adult or child who participates in sports runs a very high chance of suffering a dental injury while doing so. Most individuals don’t consider dental injuries to be significant until they actually experience one. Mouthguards are really important, not just another piece of sports gear. In this blog, we’re going to talk about why everyone playing sports should wear one, whether you’re just having fun with friends or competing seriously. We’ll look at the different kinds you can find, explain how they keep your teeth, gums, and jaw safe, and give you some tips on picking the right one.

The Importance of Mouthguards in Sports

Mouthguards are protective covers that fit over your teeth. They’re commonly used as mouthguards for sports. Additionally, if you have a jaw issue, snore, or suffer from sleep apnea, which is a condition that interrupts your breathing while you sleep, you might benefit from wearing a mouthguard.

What Happens If You Don’t Wear A Mouthguard

Skipping a mouthguard might seem okay, especially in less contact-heavy sports, but the truth is, accidents happen in all kinds of sports. Hence, it’s important to protect your dental health.

The Danger of Skipping a Mouthguard

• Unexpected Injuries: Even in sports with less physical contact, accidents can still happen. Something as simple as turning quickly, a surprise shove from another player, or just being in the wrong spot at the wrong time can lead to serious mouth injuries.
• Cost of Dental Injuries: Getting hurt isn’t just painful, it can also lead to expensive dental bills. Fixing damaged teeth can cost a lot and keep you from playing for quite some time.

The Risks of Playing Without Protection

• High Risk in Contact Sports: If you play contact sports like football, hockey, or boxing and don’t wear a mouthguard, you’re much more likely to suffer a mouth injury. Studies have backed this up, showing a big increase in risk.
• Accidents in Any Sport: No sport is completely safe from dental injuries. Even if the game seems safe, unexpected things can happen that might hurt your mouth. That’s why wearing a mouthguard is essential for all athletes.

Benefits of Wearing a Mouthguard

• Boosts Confidence: Knowing your teeth are protected can actually make you a better player. You’ll be able to concentrate more on the game and less on the fear of getting hurt.
• Enhances Performance and Enjoyment: Wearing a mouthguard isn’t just about staying safe. It also helps you play your best and enjoy the game more.

Types of Mouthguards Available

Let’s get into the different types of mouthguards that are available in the market.

1. Stock Mouth Protectors

• What They Are: These are pre-made mouthguards that you can buy off the shelf at most sports stores or department stores.
• Pros and Cons: They’re the cheapest option available, but you get what you pay for. They can’t be adjusted to fit better, which means they tend to be bulky and can make it hard to breathe or talk. Because they don’t fit very well, they don’t offer much in the way of protection.
• Dental Advice: Most dentists don’t recommend using these because they don’t provide enough safety.

2. Boil and Bite Mouth Protectors

• What They Are: Available at many sports goods stores, these mouthguards are made from a special thermoplastic material.
• How They Work: You heat them up in hot water to soften them, then put them in your mouth. Once they’re soft, you bite down and use your fingers and tongue to press them into shape around your teeth.
• Pros and Cons: They’re a bit more expensive than stock mouth protectors but offer a better fit because you mold them to your teeth, making them more comfortable and effective.

3. Custom-Fitted Mouth Protectors

• What They Are: These are the best option of mouthguards made just for you by a dentist or a professional lab.
• How They’re Made: Your dentist takes an impression of your teeth, then uses that mold to create a mouthguard that fits your mouth perfectly.
• Pros and Cons: Although they are the most expensive option, they offer the best fit, comfort, and protection because they are tailored specifically for your teeth and mouth.
• Why They’re Worth It: If you’re serious about your sport and want the best protection available, investing in a custom-fitted mouthguard is a wise choice.

Why Custom-Fitted Mouthguards Are The Best Option

We know you must be wondering which is the best mouthguard option available in the market, the answer is, getting a custom fitted mouthguard will be your best choice. This is because of the extensive customization process they take to make it the best fit for your teeth.

• Initial Impression: These are made from a detailed impression of your teeth taken by a dentist. The impression captures the unique contours of your teeth and gums.
• Laboratory Creation: The impression is then sent to a dental lab where the mouthguard is crafted. Technicians at the lab use the impression to mold layers of special acrylic or other mouthguard materials, shaping them precisely to fit the mold. This process ensures that the mouthguard fits perfectly to the individual’s teeth and gums, offering the highest level of protection and comfort.
• Final Adjustments: Once the mouthguard is formed, it may go through additional adjustments for perfect fit and comfort when you receive it from your dentist.

Additional Benefits of Mouthguards

Mouthguards are multipurpose tools that offer treatment from a number of medical conditions in addition to sports protection. Here is how they help with a few common issues such as:

Sleep Apnea

There’s a particular type of mouthguard known as a mandibular advancement device (MAD) might be quite beneficial for those who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. By gently pushing the tongue and lower jaw forward, this device keeps the airway open as you sleep. By lowering the possibility of airway blockages, this enhances breathing and lessens the symptoms of sleep apnea.

Snoring

Those that snore can also benefit from mouthguards. These devices work similarly to those used to treat sleep apnea in that they work by repositioning the jaw and tongue to maintain a more open airway while you sleep. The vibrations that create snoring sounds are diminished when the airway narrows, and this might result in a more peaceful and restful night’s sleep.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

TMJ disorders are characterized by discomfort and dysfunction in the muscles that control the mobility of the jaw joint. By lessening the strain on the jaw muscles, a mouthguard can help manage the symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder. Using a mouthguard helps stop teeth clenching and grinding, which are typical causes of TMJ pain, especially at night. The mouthguard can reduce pain and discomfort. If symptoms still persist you may need jaw surgery.

How Much Do Mouthguards Cost?

You must be wondering, how much do mouthguards cost? The price depends on the different versions available.

1. Stock Mouthguards: These are the most affordable options, usually ranging from $5 to $20.

2. Boil and Bite Mouthguards: These offer a more customized fit and typically cost between $10 and $50.

3. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: Made by a dentist or a specialized lab from an impression of your teeth, these are the most expensive but also offer the best fit and protection. Prices generally range from $100 to $500. These aren’t associated with specific commercial brands since they are made directly by dental professionals.

Mouthguards After Teeth Straightening Treatment

After undergoing teeth straightening with clear aligners or braces, wearing a mouthguard becomes especially important. You can easily get a mouthguard from your orthodontist’s office or order online if you have at-home clear aligners. You can get a mouthguard from ALIGNERCO which will protect your teeth during any sport with a customized dental gear tailored for a perfect fit, allowing for easy breathing, talking, and hydration. Their mouthguards are designed to absorb impacts, providing excellent protection against injuries. As discussed earlier, customized mouthguards are the best option and ALIGNERCO’s mouthguard is priced only at $125, offering an affordable price.

How to Care for a Mouth Guard

To keep your mouth guard in top shape:

• Storage: Keep it in a sturdy, ventilated case to let air circulate and prevent damage. If your mouth guard is made of acrylic, store it in clean water.
• Avoid Heat: Keep it away from high temperatures like hot water, hot surfaces, or direct sunlight to stop it from warping.
• Regular Checks: Look over your mouth guard often for any wear and tear. If it has holes, tears, or it feels loose or uncomfortable, it’s time to get a new one.
• Pet Safety: Keep it out of reach from pets; they might chew it.
• Dental Visits: Take your mouth guard along to your regular dental check-ups so your dentist can make sure it’s still in good shape.

How Long Do Mouth Guards Last?

The life of your mouth guard depends on what it’s made from and how well you look after it. A custom-made mouthguard can last for several years if you take good care of it. Mouth guards that you buy from stores might need to be replaced a few times a year.

Final Thoughts

In summary, Mouthguards are an essential piece of equipment for anyone engaging in sports or dealing with specific medical conditions like sleep apnea and TMJ disorders. They provide critical protection, safeguarding teeth, gums, and jaw from impact injuries and the effects of nighttime teeth grinding. It’s recommended to wear one if you play sports or go through the above mentioned medical issues.

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FAQs

1. How do I know if my mouthguard fits correctly?

Your mouthguard should fit snugly over your teeth and gums. It shouldn’t feel overly tight or loose, and it shouldn’t cause pain or significant discomfort. You should be able to breathe and speak reasonably well with it in your mouth. If it falls out easily or you find yourself frequently adjusting it, it’s likely not the right fit.

2. Is it worth getting a custom mouthguard?

Definitely, especially for athletes or individuals who wear them often. Custom mouthguards offer the best fit, comfort, and protection because they are specifically molded to the contours of your teeth and gums. They are more expensive than over-the-counter options, but the level of protection they provide is generally superior.

3. How long does a typical mouthguard last?

The lifespan of a mouthguard depends on several factors, including how often it’s used, how well it’s cared for, and the material’s quality. Custom mouthguards can last several years with proper care, while boil-and-bite or stock mouthguards may need to be replaced every few months to a year.

4. Can mouthguards prevent snoring?

Yes, certain types of mouthguards can help reduce or prevent snoring by keeping airways open while you sleep. These are typically called mandibular advancement devices and must be fitted by a dentist or a sleep specialist to ensure they work effectively and safely.

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