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Sports and Oral Health: Protecting Your Smile with Custom Athletic Mouthguards

Physical exercise, including sports, can help keep the body fit and healthy, but there can be risks involved, especially for dental health. Thousands of injuries to the teeth, gums, and soft tissues occur each year during athletic activities without athletic mouthguards. One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of injury of the mouth and teeth is through the use of an athletic mouthguard. This article will explore the benefits of athletic mouthguards for all ages and how a custom-made guard can provide extended protection to the teeth and mouth.

The Importance of Athletic Mouthguards

Physical exercise and sports bring a certain level of risk, and the potential for dental injury is a reality for many athletes. According to the American Dental Association, simply wearing a properly fitted mouthguard has the potential to reduce the risk of dental injury by up to 60 percent. It is important for athletes of all ages to take measures to protect their oral health while practicing sports.

There are different types of mouthguards that can be used during athletic activities. The most common is the stock mouthguard, which is pre-formed and sometimes uncomfortable to wear. The boil and bite mouthguard can be personally fitted by the athlete, and then the custom-made mouthguard is designed specifically for the individual. This type of mouthguard offers a higher level of protection and can be more comfortable to wear.

Custom Athletic Mouthguards

A custom athletic mouthguard is the highest level of protection available for athletes. These guards are designed in collaboration with a dentist to ensure a proper fit and optimal protection for the teeth, gums, and tongue. A custom athletic mouthguard is typically made from a soft and flexible material that can be compressed between the teeth. This material absorbs the impact of a blow, reducing the risk of injury.

Custom athletic mouthguards can be tailored to the individual athlete, taking into consideration the athlete’s age, sport, and level of athleticism. The dentist will take impressions of the athlete’s mouth to create the custom mouthguard, ensuring a secure and snug fit. The proper fit will improve comfort and minimize the need to remove the mouthguard during activity.

Benefits of Custom Athletic Mouthguards

There are many benefits to using a custom athletic mouthguard, including:

  • Protection against trauma. Custom guards provide a high level of protection in the event of a blow to the face or mouth. This can greatly reduce the risk of dental injury.
  • Comfort. Custom mouthguards are better fitting and more comfortable to wear than stock or boil and bite guards. The proper fit also makes it easier to speak and breathe while wearing the mouthguard.
  • Durability. Custom athletic mouthguards are typically made from high-quality materials. This can make them more durable than other types of guards, lasting longer and offering years of protection.

Where to Get a Custom Athletic Mouthguard

A custom athletic mouthguard can be obtained through a dentist. The dentist will work with the athlete to create a mouthguard that is sized appropriately and provides the optimal level of protection. Many doctors now offer custom athletic mouthguards as part of their services.

In conclusion, a custom athletic mouthguard is a valuable tool for protecting the oral health of athletes. It provides a high level of protection against trauma, is comfortable to wear, and can last for years. A custom-made athletic mouthguard is a wise investment in the future of your smile.