Protecting your smile while playing sports is essential for safeguarding your teeth and gums from trauma. If you participate in basketball, boxing, hockey, football, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, racquetball, rugby, track and field, skateboarding, skiing and snowboarding, skydiving, soccer, surfing, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting, or wrestling, it is recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists that you wear a mouthguard.A mouth protector can help cushion a blow to the face that otherwise might result in an injury to the mouth. A properly fitted mouthguard can help prevent broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face or jaw. It will stay in place while you are wearing it, making it easy for you to talk and breathe. Contact Us today to schedule an appointment for your custom mouthguard!
Types of Mouthguards
Choosing the right mouthguard is essential. There are three basic types of mouthguards: the pre-made mouthguard, the “boil-and-bite” fitted mouthguard, and a custom-made mouthguard from your orthodontist. When you chose a mouthguard, be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, comfortable and well fitted for your mouth, easy to keep clean, and does not prevent you from breathing properly.
Pre-made mouthguards and “boil-and-bite” mouthguards can be purchased at most sporting good stores; while custom-made mouthguards are specially designed by your orthodontist to provide optimal protection against mouth injuries. If you wear braces or a retainer, it is imperative for you to wear a mouthguard during contact sports. Your doctor can show you how to wear a mouthguard properly and how to choose the right mouthguard to protect your smile.
Sports related injuries to the mouth and jaw are some of the most common injuries received by athletes. Our goal is to help minimize your chances of a sports related injury to your smile. Be sure to ask your doctor about mouthguards at your next appointment – GO TEAM!