Best Sports Mouthguards: What You Need to Know
You want to take care of your teeth. That’s why you brush, floss, and see your dentist for regular check-ups. You also know it’s important to protect them when you play contact sports, but you may not know the best sports mouthguards to use or how to purchase them. That’s where we come in. We’ll help you understand your options for buying a mouthguard for playing the sport you love.
Kinds of Sports Mouthguards
You’ve seen players using sports mouthguard on the TV, but what kinds of mouthguards are those athletes using? And which one is the best mouthguard to use? If you play sports for teams like Summerville High School, Cane Bay Middle School and High School or other local teams knowing your options is important, and so is choosing the best for you. Here are the three basic types:
- Stock Mouthguards. These are the most commonly used type of mouthguard, and they’re the least expensive, too. You can find them at most retail sporting goods stores. However, research from the American Dental Association has shown that stock mouthguards are the least effective sports mouthguards. That’s because they’re pre-formed so you can’t adjust them to your mouth’s nature bite.
- Mouth Formed Mouthguards. This is also called the “boil-and-bite” mouthguards. These mouthguards soften when placed in boiling water before being inserted into the mouth. The heat from the water softens the mouthguard so it molds to the user’s mouth. These are also available at sporting goods stores.
- Custom Mouthguards. As the name suggests, these kinds of sports mouthguards are made by dentists and orthodontists to fit the user’s mouth. They cost more than the other two kinds of mouthguards, but they are much more comfortable and provide better protection against injuries. Prices are typically 150-200 depending on customization options.
No matter what kind of sports mouthguard you choose, make sure you or your child wear them. Although parents know their value and importance, 67% of them admitted that their children do not wear a mouthguard during organized sports. That’s because the mouthguards are not required.
How Custom Sports Mouthguards Are Made
When you opt for a custom mouthguard, the process of having one made is quick and easy. First, you’ll need to make an appointment with our office. During your visit, our staff will use a digital scanner to create a 3d image of your mouth. Next we 3D print a model of your teeth. Finally a mouthguard will be created with superheated thick plastic. If your child is using a custom mouthguard, they will need a new one every few years as they grow and mature.
Why You Need a Sports Mouthguard
The American Association of Orthodontists reported that athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to damage their teeth than those who wear one. But that’s not the only reason to wear a mouthguard. They can also help prevent injury to your jaw and mouth. Even the most expensive mouthguards cost significantly less than repairing an injury.
Getting the best sports mouthguard is an important decision, and we’d like to help. Contact our offices and we will schedule an appointment for you to discuss your options. Your dental health is too important to ignore.