Mouthguards: Dental Protection

Mouthguards are a thick, typically spongy cover that fits over your teeth to protect them. Mouthguards are often used during sports and other activities when there is a significant danger of facial trauma.

They can also be beneficial outside of sports. For example, if you have jaw problems or grind your teeth, you may need to use a specialist mouthguard. Snoring and sleep apnea are occasionally treated with special mouthguards prescribed by dentists.

What are the dangers of participating in sports?

A dental injury may result in tooth loss, chipped or broken teeth, jaw fractures and soft tissue damage in the mouth. Damage to the gums and lips can also occur as a result of dental trauma. The great news is that by using the custom-fitted mouthguard each time you play and practice may frequently prevent injuries.

What role does a mouthguard play?

When the lower area of your face is struck directly, the force can go up your jaw, teeth, and even the upper section of your skull. This can make problems like front tooth fractures and even concussions more likely. Lower-jaw blows may force the jaws to crash together, causing damage to both rows of teeth. Mouthguards operate as a shock absorber in these situations. The spongy material absorbs the impact and reduces the strain on your teeth, jaws, and skull.

When should you use a mouthguard when participating in sports?

During games and training, mouthguards should be worn. Basically, a mouthguard should be worn whenever your face is at risk of being struck. The authority urge that you wear a mouthguard while you're on the field, regardless of whether the activity you're playing is classified a "contact sport."

Selecting the Best Mouthguard

On the market, there are two primary mouthguard options:

Custom-made: A tailored mouthguard designed and fitted by a dental specialist, provides the finest protection for your teeth. To obtain the best fit, the dentist takes an impression of your teeth and creates a plaster replica. The mouthguard must be at least 4mm thick and have a cushioning effect to offer impact protection. It fits tightly enough that you can still communicate, which is crucial during a high-intensity battle.

Boil-and-bit: These mouthguards can be purchased over-the-counter. Mouthguards are self-fitted by soaking them in hot water and biting into them to mold them to the contour of the teeth and mouth. Because it doesn't adjust as well to the person's bite and jaw structure, it's less effective and might be more painful. If you're in a pinch, though, a boil-and-bite mouthguard is preferable than no mouthguard at all.

Inspection time has arrived.

Check to see if your mouthguard is in excellent working order. To be sure, have your dental expert examine it at a routine check-up. It may need to be replaced if it was damaged while playing.

If you keep your mouthguard in good shape and don't need any serious dental repair, such as a restoration, it can endure for years. Because of the child's growth and any new teeth that affect the fit, mouthguards for children must be updated every 12 to 18 months.

Remember to contact your dentist if your mouthguard becomes uncomfortable or does not fit properly.