Participating in sports is a great way to stay active and healthy, but it can also be risky for your teeth and gums. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, up to 39% of all dental injuries are sports-related. One way to prevent sports injuries to your teeth and gums is by wearing a custom mouthguard.
What is a Custom Mouthguard?
A custom mouthguard is a dental appliance that your dentist will custom-fit to your teeth and gums. It’s typically a soft, pliable material that conforms to the shape of your mouth. This provides maximum protection against sports-related injuries. Compared to other mouthguards, custom mouthguards are more effective at preventing dental trauma.
How a Custom Mouthguard Can Help Prevent Sports Injuries
One of the primary functions of a custom mouthguard is to protect your teeth from impact. If you take a blow to the mouth while playing sports, a mouthguard can help absorb the shock and prevent your teeth from chipping, cracking, or falling out.
Additionally, a custom mouthguard can also help protect your gums from injury. If you experience a hard blow to the mouth, your gums can become bruised or lacerated. A mouthguard can help cushion your gums and prevent injury.
Another important benefit of a custom mouthguard is that it can also help prevent concussions. If you take a blow to the head while playing sports, the force of the impact can cause your brain to move around inside your skull, potentially causing a concussion. A mouthguard can help absorb the impact and reduce the risk of concussion.
Why Invest in a Custom Mouthguard?
While you can purchase over-the-counter mouthguards at your local sporting goods store, investing in a custom mouthguard is the best way to ensure maximum protection for your teeth and gums.
Your dentist will design your mouthguard to fit your teeth and gums perfectly, providing optimal protection against sports-related injuries. Over-the-counter mouthguards are often too bulky or too small, making them less effective at preventing injuries. Additionally, store-bought mouthguards are much less comfortable compared to custom-designed mouthguards.
Unlike other mouthguards, custom mouthguards have high-quality materials and can withstand the rigors of sports. They also last for several years, making them a worthwhile investment.
Because a custom mouthguard fits your mouth perfectly, it’s much more comfortable to wear than an over-the-counter mouthguard. This means you will be more likely to wear it consistently. If you wear your mouthguard more, your teeth and gums will be more protected.
While a custom mouthguard may be more expensive, you may find that these mouthguards are much more cost-effective in the long run. A custom mouthguard can last several years. However, you may need to replace an over-the-counter one more frequently.