Are you an athlete thinking about how to protect your smile while playing sports with high impact? There are many types of mouthguards, so it’s important to choose the right one to avoid chipped teeth, jaw injuries, or damaged soft tissue. At times, it can be difficult to determine which mouthguard is best for you. If you are looking for sports guards in downtown Vancouver, it can give you peace of mind to know the difference in types as well as the materials used in mouthguards.
Why Do Athletes Need a Mouthguard?
Athletic injuries happen quickly, and your teeth are at risk every time you step on the field or court. A sports mouthguard is designed to absorb shock, distribute force, and prevent serious dental injuries. In addition to protecting your teeth, a mouthguard can also protect your jaw and may reduce your risk of concussion.
Going to a dentist in downtown Vancouver can give you the assurance that your mouthguard is custom-fit to your bite, which can provide maximum comfort and safety during your experience. The dentist should have recommendations based on your sport, amount of contact, intensity and braces or other fixed dental appliances that you may have.
Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards: Which Is Right?
When choosing a mouthguard, consider a customized device that a trained dental professional creates specifically for you, or an over-the-counter device.
Custom Mouthguards:
- Initially, a dentist tailored and assembled a comfortable and protective mouthguard just for you.
- Custom-made mouthguards are more comfortable than those based on mass production, last longer, and provide better protective abilities.
- High-level sports or long sports sessions are the perfect use of custom mouthguards.
Store-Bought Mouthguards
- These mouthguards usually come at a cheap price and are quite accessible.
- They may be somewhat user-friendly, but these mouthguards are usually bulky and don’t fit the contours of your mouth very well, which makes them less comfortable and less safe.
Comparing custom vs store mouthguard options helps athletes choose the best combination of safety and convenience.
How to Choose the Right Athletic Mouthguard
Choosing the right mouth guard depends on your sport and needs.
- Make sure it fits snugly, while allowing you to breathe easily.
- Make sure it is constructed well and is of high quality.
- If it’s a contact sport, or if your child wants added protection, go with a double-layer guard.
- Make sure to pick an orthodontically compatible design if your child has orthodontics.
It’s recommended to replace the mouthguard every 6-12 months unless you notice damage sooner.
What are the Tips for Maintaining Your Mouthguard
Appropriate care of your sports mouthguards is going to make them remain in a hygienic condition, retain their freshness and be of use for a long time.
- After using them, wash them thoroughly.
- Use a soft toothbrush and gently brush them.
- Keep the mouthguard in a ventilated case to stop bacterial growth.
Never place it in a hot spot or under direct sun rays, as it will change the mould of the product.
When Should You Consult a Dentist?
Even with a great mouthguard, regular professional check-ins are essential. A dentist near you can make sure the guard fits well, recommend upgrades if needed, and assist with comfort and wear issues. Professional management can save you from small to big injuries.
What are the Benefits of Custom Athletic Mouthguards?
- Prevents chipped or broken teeth
- Cushions the jaw to reduce trauma and concussions
- Offers a more comfortable fit to encourage regular usage
- More durable and long-lasting than the generic ones
- Allows you to breathe and move freely when performing at your best
Experience Maximum Protection with a Custom-Fit Mouthguard!
Want the very best protection for your smile on the field of play? At Key Dental Clinic, we do all types of professional fittings, offer expert guidance, and provide customized athletic mouthguards that are built to last! Book your appointment today and have the peace of mind that your teeth and jaw are protected while playing hard!