Get Game-Ready with Sports Mouth Guards

A sports mouth guards, also known as a mouthguard or simply a sports guard, is a protective device worn over the teeth. It safeguards the teeth, gums, and soft tissues of the mouth from injuries during physical activity or sports.

These mouthguards are especially important in contact sports like football, hockey, basketball, and boxing, where collisions are frequent.

Their use isn’t limited to such sports, though. Anyone participating in activities that could cause mouth or dental injuries, ranging from chipped or broken teeth to a fractured jaw, should consider wearing a sports mouthguard for protection.

Mouth guards offer vital protection against dental and oral injuries. They create a barrier that cushions the teeth and soft tissues inside the mouth, preventing injuries to the lips, tongue, and cheeks. Additionally, they help reduce the risk of concussions by absorbing and redistributing the force of impacts to the jaw. Statistics show that athletes who wear mouth guards are significantly less likely to suffer from dental trauma. For example, the American Dental Association reports that athletes are 60 times more likely to sustain dental injuries when not wearing a mouth guard.

Mouth guards are essential protective gear for athletes, especially those participating in contact sports.  Loose, chipped, broken, or cracked teeth are some of the most common dental injuries that occur during these activities. A mouth guard significantly reduces the risk of such damage by absorbing the impact of a blow to the mouth, potentially preventing not just chipped teeth but also jaw fractures, concussions, and even neck injuries.

Furthermore, mouth guards can help prevent permanent facial scarring.  Direct blows to the mouth can cause you to bite your tongue or cheek, leading to not only dental issues but also the need for stitches and potential scarring.  This risk is particularly high for athletes wearing braces.

Finally, using a mouth guard can improve athletic performance. The increased sense of security and reduced worry about potential injury allows athletes to focus better and potentially perform at their peak.

Choosing the right mouthguard is essential for athletes of all levels. Here are some key factors to consider:

Type of Sport

Different sports have varying risks of contact and injury. Ice hockey players, for example, need much stronger protection than soccer players who rely on speed and agility. Choose a mouthguard designed for your specific sport to ensure it offers the appropriate level of protection.

Protection Level

Mouthguards come in different protection levels, ranging from mild to high impact. Consider the intensity of your sport and your personal risk tolerance when selecting a level.

Comfort and Fit

A comfortable and well-fitting mouthguard is crucial for consistent wear. Look for one that feels secure but not too tight, allowing for easy breathing and speaking.  If your teeth are in poor condition, a custom-made mouthguard might not be the best option, as a boil-and-bite type might be more suitable.

Several factors can damage your dentures. Let’s explore the common causes and how to avoid them.

Common Causes of Denture Damage

Poor Hygiene: Failing to clean your dentures properly can lead to the buildup of plaque and bacteria, weakening the denture material.

Overuse: Wearing dentures continuously without giving them a break can cause them to wear out faster.

Accidents: Dropping your dentures or biting down on hard foods can cause cracks or fractures.

Tips to Prevent Damage

Proper Cleaning: Clean your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive cleanser. Rinse them thoroughly after meals.

Soaking: Make it a habit to soak your dentures every night in warm water and a denture cleaning solution. This helps keep them clean and prevents overuse.

Handle with Care: Always handle your dentures gently to avoid dropping and damaging them.

Avoid Hard Foods: Steer clear of hard or sticky foods that can cause damage to your dentures.

Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits with your denturist to ensure your dentures are in good condition and to catch any potential issues early.

There are three main types of mouthguards to consider, each with its pros and cons:

Custom-Made Mouth Guard

This type offers the best fit and protection because it’s designed specifically for your teeth. A dentist takes an impression of your teeth and creates a mold for a comfortable, secure fit. While the most expensive option, it provides the most comfort and protection for your mouth.

Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guard

This option offers a better fit than a stock mouthguard. You boil the pre-formed guard and then bite down on it while it’s soft to mold it to your teeth. While not as customized as a dentist-made option, it provides a more comfortable and secure fit than a stock mouthguard at a more affordable price.

Stock Mouth Guard

This is the most affordable option but offers the least comfort and protection. These pre-formed guards come in standard sizes and may not fit your mouth well, potentially causing discomfort and making it difficult to breathe or speak clearly.

Consulting your dentist can help you choose the right mouthguard for your needs and budget.

Not using a mouthguard during physical activity significantly increases the risk of several injuries:

Dental Trauma: Activities like contact sports can lead to broken or chipped teeth, tooth loss, and damage to soft tissues in the mouth. These injuries can cause lasting problems.

Concussions: Mouthguards absorb impact, reducing the force transmitted to the head and potentially minimizing the risk of brain concussions. Without this protection, the likelihood of a concussion and its potential short- and long-term effects goes up.

Jaw Injuries and TMJ Disorders: A mouthguard protects the jaw from fractures and dislocations by absorbing strong impacts. Without it, blows to the jaw can result in severe injuries and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, leading to chronic discomfort, limited jaw movement, and problems with eating, speaking, and overall quality of life.

Tooth Movement and Damage: Impacts can cause teeth to shift out of place, affecting their appearance. Additionally, the force can damage tooth roots, potentially leading to root fractures, nerve damage, and even tooth loss.

Here’s how to properly care for your mouthguard to ensure it lasts and protects effectively:

Regular Cleaning: Clean your mouthguard routinely with soap and warm water. For an extra layer of disinfection, soak it periodically in an alcohol-free mouthwash.

Storage: Always store your mouthguard in a ventilated container when not in use. This allows it to dry completely, preventing bacterial growth.

Avoid Extremes: Keep your mouthguard away from direct sunlight and extreme heat, such as leaving it in a hot car. Additionally, avoid bending or twisting it excessively.

Regular Checkups: Just like a toothbrush, mouthguards wear out over time. Regularly inspect yours for signs of wear and tear. We recommend consulting your dentist periodically to have them assess the fit and condition of your mouthguard.

High-Quality Materials

At WDC, we use only the highest quality materials to create sports mouth guards, ensuring durability and a natural appearance.

Advanced Technology

Our clinic employs the latest technology and advanced techniques in the fabrication and adjustment of transitional dentures, guaranteeing precision and comfort.

Experienced Team

Our team of experienced and trained denturists offers comprehensive attention to each patient, providing personalized solutions that meet individual needs.

Personal Consultation

We offer personal consultation services to ensure each patient receives the best possible care and the most suitable temporary denture solution.

Dedication to Excellence

Westmount Denture Clinic is dedicated to providing the best service and maintaining patient satisfaction. Our meticulous manufacturing and installation processes ensure high-quality transitional dentures.

Comprehensive Service

We provide comprehensive post-installation services, including routine inspections and repair services if necessary, to maintain the quality and functionality of transitional dentures.

Patient Education

We focus on educating our patients about proper care to ensure their transitional dentures remain in optimal condition. Our team is always available to answer questions and provide support.

By choosing a high-quality mouth guards from Westmount Denture Clinic, athletes can ensure they receive the best protection and care available.