Sports are fun and exciting, but they can also be risky. Whether you’re playing soccer, basketball, hockey, or any other sport, it’s important to protect your body, especially your teeth. One of the best ways to protect your teeth during sports is by wearing a mouth guard.
But how do you choose the right sports mouth guard near you? This guide will help you understand everything you need to know about sports mouthguards so you can pick the best one for you.
What is a Mouthguard?
A mouth guard is a soft, flexible piece of plastic that you wear over your teeth while playing sports. It helps to protect your teeth, lips, and gums from getting hurt if you get hit in the face or fall down.
Why Do You Need a Mouth Guard?
When you play sports, there’s always a chance you could get hit in the face. This can happen when you run into another player, get hit by a ball, or fall. A mouth guard helps to:
- Prevent Broken Teeth: It cushions your teeth so they don’t crack or break.
- Protect Your Lips and Gums: It keeps your lips and gums from getting cut by your teeth.
- Avoid Jaw Injuries: It can also help reduce the risk of jaw injuries by absorbing some of the impact.
Types of Mouth Guards
The three main types of mouthguards are stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-made, each with its own pros and cons.
1. Stock Mouth Guards
Stock mouth guards are pre-made and ready to wear right out of the package. They are usually the cheapest option, but they have some disadvantages:
- Pros: Easy to use and inexpensive.
- Cons: They often need to fit better, which can make them uncomfortable and less effective.
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are made from a special plastic that becomes soft when heated. You boil the mouth guard in hot water, let it cool slightly, and then bite into it to create a custom fit.
- Pros: It provides a better fit than stock mouthguards and is still relatively affordable.
- Cons: It can be tricky to get the perfect fit, and they may not last as long as custom-made guards.
3. Custom-Made Mouth Guards
Custom-made mouthguards are created by your dentist specifically for your teeth. The dentist takes a mould of your teeth and uses it to make a mouth guard that fits perfectly.
- Pros: Offers the best fit and most protection. They are also the most comfortable to use.
- Cons: They are the most expensive option and take longer to get since they need to be made by a dentist.
How to Choose the Right Mouth Guard
When picking a mouth guard near you, think about these factors:
- Fit: The mouth guard should fit snugly over your teeth without being too tight or too loose. A good fit ensures it stays in place and offers the best protection.
- Comfort: It should be comfortable to wear. If it’s not, you might not wear it properly, which reduces its effectiveness.
- Protection: Make sure the mouth guard covers all your teeth and provides enough cushioning to protect against impacts.
- Durability: Consider how long the mouth guard will last. Custom-made mouth guards are usually more durable, but boil-and-bite guards can also last a season or two if taken care of properly.
- Cost: Think about your budget. Stock mouth guards are the cheapest, but a boil-and-bite or custom-made guard is a better investment for the protection they offer.
How to Take Care of Your Mouth Guard
To make sure your mouth guard lasts and stays clean, follow these simple steps:
- Clean It Regularly: Rinse your mouthguard with cold water or mouthwash before and after each use. Just like your natural teeth, you can also clean your mouthguard with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Store It Properly: Keep your mouth guard in a sturdy, ventilated container when you’re not using it. This helps prevent damage and lets it air out.
- Check for Damage: Regularly check your mouthguard for any signs of wear and tear. If it’s damaged, it won’t protect your teeth as well and should be replaced.
- Avoid Heat: Don’t even commit a mistake by leaving your mouth guard in direct sunlight or hot water for too long. Water and sunlight can warp and lose their shape.
- When to Replace Your Mouth Guard
- Even with good care, sports guard don’t last forever. Here are some signs that you need a new one:
- Visible Wear: If you see holes or tears in your mouth guard, it’s time to replace it.
- Loose Fit: If your mouth guard feels loose or doesn’t stay in place, it’s not protecting you properly.
- Unpleasant Odour: A strong, unpleasant smell can be a sign that your mouthguard is no longer clean, even with regular washing.
Mint Dental Can Help You Choose The Right Sports Mouthguard
Wearing a mouth guard is a simple but important way to protect your teeth and mouth while playing sports. By understanding the different types of mouthguards and how to choose the right one with the help of a Port Moody dentist, you can ensure that you’re protected every time you hit the field, court, or rink.
Remember to take good care of your mouth guard and replace it when needed so it can continue to keep you safe. With the right mouthguard, you can enjoy your favourite sports with confidence, knowing that your smile is protected. And at Mint Dental, we make sure you get the most suitable mouthguard as needed.