When Should You Wear a Mouthguard?
Playing sports and being physically active is great for overall health. However, sports and other activities that involve physical contact can come with a risk of dental injury. That’s why your dentist in Chicago will always recommend that both adults and kids wear a mouthguard while playing sports. In fact, mouthguards are one of the most effective ways to prevent dental injuries.
How Does a Mouthguard Protect Teeth?
A mouthguard is an important piece of sports equipment that can protect teeth and other areas of the mouth against injuries. Mouthguards fit over the teeth and gums and are designed to absorb and distribute the force of any impact, minimizing the risk of dental injury. Dental injuries can be painful, expensive, and sometimes even permanent, so it’s important to take measures to prevent them. If anyone in your family plays sports, talk to your dentist on the Magnificent Mile about the best mouthguard for them.
3 Types of Mouthguards
Speaking of the best mouthguards, there are actually several different types of mouthguards to consider, each having some pros and cons.
- Stock Mouthguards: The most affordable type of mouthguard is a stock mouthguard. They’re also very convenient as they can be found in most sporting goods stores. However, since stock mouthguards are pre-formed, they may not fit well, and therefore, may not provide the best protection.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Perhaps the most common type of mouthguard is the boil-and-bite. These mouthguards are made from material that softens when boiled. As the name suggests, you can boil the mouthguard, allow it to cool just a little, place it in your mouth and bite down. The boil-and-bite method allows for a more custom shape around the teeth and provides a better fit and better protection.
- Custom-Made Mouthguards: The top-tier mouthguards are custom-made by a dentist in Chicago. After taking precise impressions of your teeth, a super-custom, and super-comfortable mouthguard will be created. Custom mouthguards are the most expensive option but also provide the best protection. Plus, many times your dentist can make them in custom colors!
Benefits of Mouthguards
Ensuring that you wear a mouthguard (and wear it properly) every time you play a sport can offer a wide range of benefits, including:
- Prevent Tooth Damage: Mouthguards are designed to take on the force of a physical impact, lowering the risk of tooth damage. They can protect against broken, chipped, or knocked-out teeth.
- Keep Gums Safe: While mouthguards are well known for their ability to protect teeth, they can also keep gums and other soft tissues in the mouth safe. Guarding teeth can help avoid injuries to the lips, cheek, tongue, and gums.
- Protect Against Serious Injuries: Outside of preventing dental injuries, mouthguards can also help protect against serious injuries such as concussions, jaw fractures, and neck injuries.
If you or your child are active in sports or other activities where contact can occur, ask your dentist in Water Tower Place about which mouthguard they recommend.
