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Mouthguards Can you imagine what it would be like to lose one or both of your front teeth? In the matter of seconds eating, talking and smiling can become embarrassing if you do not protect your teeth. It is especially important to protect your teeth if you play recreational sports. Even those sports that are not considered to be contact sports can lead to a tooth, mouth or face trauma if you do not protect yourself. Mike Regan, DMD strongly believes in protecting your mouth and teeth against injury by way of using a mouthguard. In fact, he so strongly supports the use of mouthguards that he even offers free mouthguards to regular patients of his practice. What is a Mouthguard?Mouthguards are also commonly referred to as mouth protectors. Mouthguards are placed inside of the mouth to protect the mouth, teeth, tongue and lips from injury. Mouthguards work to soften the blow in the case of an accident so that the teeth, mouth, tongue and lips are less likely to sustain injury. Since the top teeth typically stick out further than the bottom teeth, most mouthguards are placed over the top teeth. When is it Necessary to Wear a Mouthguard?Mouthguards should always be worn when participating in any sort of contact sport since athletes who play contact sports (like boxing and football) more frequently sustain mouth or teeth injuries. That being said, because an accident involving the mouth, tongue, lips or teeth can happen during any sport it is therefore essential that a mouthguard become a part of any athlete’s athletic gear. Are There Different Types of Mouthguards?There are three main different types of mouthguards. Custom-made mouthguards are the best option for protecting your teeth, mouth, lips and tongue. However, if you cannot afford a custom mouthguard it is still important to purchase a standard mouthguard for protection. The main three types of mouthguards are: StockStock mouthguards are typically rather inexpensive. They come pre-formed and ready for use. The downside to stock mouthguards is that they do not always fit well. They tend to be bulkier than the other two types of mouthguards and have even been known to make breathing difficult. Boil and BiteBoil and bite mouthguards can be purchased at most drugstores and sporting goods stores. They generally fit better than stock mouthguards, but less well than custom-made mouthguards. Custom-MadeCustom-made mouthguards are available at our office. They are made by the us and designed to give you the ultimate fit and comfort. Mouthguards should always be properly cared for and maintained. Talk with ust about the proper care and maintenance required to extend the life of your mouthguard, as well as to ensure that it functions as it should. If you or your child participates in athletic activities, it is important that you purchase and utilize a mouthguard. Call our office at 503-654-8283 today to schedule your appointment to have a custom mouthguard designed just for you. |
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