Mouthguards
A mouthguard is a piece of dental equipment that helps protect your teeth, gums and jaw from injury. They’re usually worn during sports when your teeth may be at risk of receiving an impact hit. Whether you’re an athlete, have a child involved in sports, or have specific dental issues, a mouthguard could save you time and money by preventing extensive surgeries after injury. At Lucas Dental in the South Plympton area we provide full custom mouthguard fittings. Here we explain the different types of mouthguards, who needs them, mouthguard benefits, athletic mouth protection and why custom-made options are the best choice.
Book an appointment with us today to talk through your mouthguard options.
What Is a Mouthguard?
Definition and Purpose
A mouthguard is a protective device worn over your teeth to shield them from damage during physical activities or to prevent injuries for people with specific dental needs. The main purpose of a mouthguard is to absorb and distribute the impact from any blows to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth, cut lips, and other oral injuries. We recommend mouthguards for athletes and children who play contact sports. However, the type and fit of the mouthguard can vary based on your needs. Book in at Lucas Dental and we can get you fitted for the style of mouthguard you need.
Types of Mouthguard
Custom-Fit Mouthguards
Custom-fit mouthguards are designed specifically for your teeth, based on an impression taken by one of our dentists at Lucas Dental. These mouthguards provide a higher level of comfort, fit and protection. Although they are more expensive, custom-fit mouthguards give the highest level of protection and durability which reduces the risk of injury, more so than stock or boil-and-bite options.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a more customisable fit than stock ones. These mouthguards are made from a thermoplastic material that softens when placed in hot water. After boiling, you bite into the softened mouthguard to shape it around your teeth. Boil-and-bite options provide a better fit than stock mouthguards, but they don’t offer the same comfort and protection as custom-fit mouthguards.
Stock Mouthguards
Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and ready to wear. While they are the most affordable option, their generic shape can make them uncomfortable and offer limited protection. Stock mouthguards may not fit properly, meaning they can shift around during use, making them less reliable during high-impact activities.
Who Needs a Mouthguard?
Athletes and Active Individuals
Athletes, especially those involved in contact sports like rugby, football, and boxing will benefit significantly from wearing mouthguards. Well-fitted sports mouthguards can help prevent dental injuries such as chipped or broken teeth and reduce the risk of jaw fractures.
Mouthguards for Kids
Children playing sport should wear mouthguards to protect their developing teeth and jaws. A mouthguard can prevent serious injuries that may require expensive and invasive dental procedures later. Sports like hockey, basketball, and even skateboarding come with a risk of oral injuries. At Lucas Dental here in the South Plympton area we can make appropriate mouthguards for kids.
Benefits of Wearing a Mouthguard
Protect Against Tooth Damage and Loss
One of the benefits of a mouthguard is its ability to protect your teeth from trauma. In high-contact sports, your teeth are at risk of being chipped, cracked, or even knocked out. A mouthguard cushions the impact, helping to prevent damage.
Reduce Risk of Soft Tissue Injuries
Mouthguards don’t just protect your teeth, they also help prevent injuries to the soft tissues of your mouth, such as your gums, cheeks, and tongue. By wearing a mouthguard, you can reduce the risk of cuts and bruises in these areas.
Prevent Jaw Injuries
A well-fitted mouthguard helps distribute the force of a blow to the face, which can prevent or reduce the severity of jaw injuries. Without a mouthguard, a direct hit could cause a jaw fracture or dislocation, leading to significant pain and long-term dental problems.
Why Custom Mouthguards Are the Best Option
Better Fit and Comfort
Custom-fit mouthguards are made from a mould of your teeth, which provides a much better fit than stock or boil-and-bite versions. This personalised fit makes them more comfortable to wear, allowing you to breathe and speak more easily while wearing them.
Enhanced Protection
Because custom-fit mouthguards are tailored to your unique dental structure, they offer enhanced protection compared to generic versions. They provide optimal coverage for your teeth and gums, providing better protection against impacts.
Long-Lasting Durability
Although custom-fit mouthguards are crafted with stronger materials and a custom design which means they can withstand heavy use. Book now to have a custom mouth guard fitted for you at Lucas Dental.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a stock mouthguard and a custom-fit mouthguard?
How long do custom-fit mouthguards last?
Are mouthguards necessary for non-contact sports?
Can my child wear a mouthguard with braces?
Get Your Custom Mouthguard Today
Don’t wait until you have an injury. Protect your teeth and gums with a custom-fit mouthguard designed for your needs. Schedule an appointment with Lucas Dental in the South Plympton area today and we’ll fit you with a mouthguard that’s right for you.