Protect Your Smile: The Benefits of Custom-Fit Sports Mouthguards
Anyone involved in an activity with potential facial impact or sudden jaw clenching is susceptible to oral injuries. Calgary Dental Centers in Calgary, Alberta, provide custom-built sports appliances to safeguard your oral cavity and reduce the likelihood of concussion.
What are sports oral appliances?
This athletic device, constructed from a pliant plastic, fits snugly over your teeth’s upper arch. The mouthguard acts as a shock absorber, reducing the impact on your face and thus lowering the risk of tooth breakage and injuries to the jaw, lips, tongue, and cheeks.
What are the benefits of using your custom-crafted sports equipment?
- Convenient process. Arranging an appointment for your mouth impression is smooth and swift—in fact, it generally takes less than thirty minutes. This mould then acts as the blueprint for creating your sports appliance.
- Expert supervision. Our team provides comprehensive guidance on how to use and maintain the cleanliness of the appliance.
- Experience secure, comfortable wear. Enjoy a custom-crafted sports appliance designed to stay comfortably in place, significantly reducing the likelihood of salivation.
- Talk and hydrate. Our custom-fitted appliance’s secure design makes it easy to converse and hydrate. The less frequently you remove the mouthguard during activities, the lower your chances of losing it.
- Long-lasting. Our sports gear is made by a dental lab, using quality materials that provide durability without any bite-through or rips.
- Represent your team. The sports gear can be designed in transparent plastic or vibrant, stark colours, making you feel closer to your beloved team.
- Unmatched safety. The primary reason for opting for our sports device is its unparalleled safety. It safeguards teeth and soft tissues, ensuring a preserved smile even during intense gaming.
When should I wear my protective mouthguards?
We encourage patients to wear their custom dental appliances during high-risk activities, such as sports and recreational pursuits, that may pose a risk to the oral cavity. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to protecting your teeth and mouth.
How do I take care of my oral appliance?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for prolonging the lifespan of your sports mouthguard. After each use, rinse it with cold water and store it in a clean, dry case. You can also regularly brush it with toothpaste to keep it clean and fresh. It is important to replace your mouthguard if you notice any signs of wear or tear.
Keep Your Smile Safe – Get Started Today!
Contact us to learn how to protect your smile easily with a customized sports appliance from Calgary Dental Centers. We have two convenient locations in Calgary, Alberta (Calgary’s Dental Care – (403) 768-1339 and 17th Avenue Dental Center – (403) 768-1343) and are accepting new patients and families.
Sports Appliances FAQs
Why are custom mouthguards better than store-bought ones?
Custom mouthguards are designed to fit your unique dental structure, offering superior protection and comfort compared to over-the-counter options. They are less bulky, stay in place during activity, and make it easier to speak and breathe. Athletes wearing custom guards are most likely to keep them in during games and practices. This can significantly reduce injuries and improve athletic performance due to less distraction and discomfort.
Can a mouthguard help prevent more than just tooth injuries?
A well-fitted sports appliance can reduce the risk of soft tissue injuries, jaw fractures, and even concussions by absorbing and redistributing impact forces. This is especially important in contact sports, where falls or collisions are common. Protecting the jaw and surrounding tissues contributes to overall head and facial safety. Some studies suggest that wearing a quality mouthguard may help reduce the severity of head trauma in certain sports.
Do children need to replace mouthguards as they grow?
Absolutely. As a child’s mouth develops and permanent teeth erupt, their mouthguard must be updated to ensure proper fit and protection. It is recommended that the fit be reassessed before each new sports season. Worn or ill-fitting guards can be uncomfortable and provide inadequate defence against impact. Frequent check-ins at the dentist’s office will ensure the appliance fits well and performs effectively as the mouth changes over time.
Are sports mouthguards needed for non-contact sports?
Injuries can occur in many non-contact sports, such as gymnastics, skating, or mountain biking. A sudden fall or impact with equipment can still result in dental trauma. Wearing a sports appliance during any physical activity that poses a risk to the mouth is a wise preventive measure, even if the sport is not full contact. Mouthguards are an inexpensive way to avoid potentially painful and expensive dental injuries.
How should sports appliances be cleaned and stored?
Rinse mouthguards with cool water after each use and clean them regularly with mild soap and a toothbrush. They should be stored in a well-ventilated container to prevent bacterial growth. Avoid exposing them to heat, including hot water or direct sunlight, as this can warp the material and affect the fit. A clean, dry storage area also helps maintain the mouthguard’s integrity and ensures it is ready for use.
Can someone with braces wear a sports mouthguard?
Yes, individuals with braces need to wear a mouthguard, as braces can cause additional injury to lips and cheeks during impact. A custom-fit or specially designed orthodontic mouthguard accommodates brackets and wires while protecting teeth and orthodontic appliances. Regular evaluations ensure that the appliance fits properly as orthodontic treatment progresses and adjustments are made to the braces.
What are signs that a sports mouthguard needs replacing?
Cracks, tears, or thinning areas in the material indicate it is time to replace your mouthguard. Discomfort, poor fit, or difficulty breathing while wearing it are also signs. Replacing a damaged or poorly fitting mouthguard ensures continuous protection during sports activities. A dental professional can examine the mouthguard during check-ups to ensure it still offers full protection and fits properly as your teeth change.