At Mint Dental Care in Twin Falls, ID, we know how important it is to protect your smile during sports and active play. Sports mouthguards are designed to cushion your teeth and gums from sudden impacts that can cause serious injuries. While store-bought versions offer some coverage, custom mouthguards provide the best comfort, fit, and protection. Call today to schedule your appointment and keep your smile safe.
What Are Sports Mouthguards?
A sports mouthguard is a protective device worn over your teeth when playing sports or engaging in high-impact activities. It acts as a barrier to absorb shock, reducing the chance of broken teeth or injuries to your gums and jaw. It’s a simple tool that makes a big difference.
- Prevents dental trauma: Shields teeth from chipping, cracking, or being knocked out during a fall or collision.
- Protects soft tissues: Reduces cuts to the lips, cheeks, and tongue that can happen if a ball or elbow hits your face.
- Stabilizes the jaw: Cushions the force from sudden contact, lowering the risk of jaw joint strain.
Why Choose A Custom Sports Mouthguard?
Custom sports mouthguards are made specifically for your smile, which makes them far more effective than store-bought options. They fit snugly, allowing you to breathe and speak easily while playing. That means you can focus on the game instead of worrying about your teeth.
- Exact fit: Designed from impressions of your teeth for full coverage and stability, even during intense play.
- Durable protection: Built from high-quality materials that hold up through repeated use, unlike flimsy boil-and-bite guards.
- Comfortable design: Slimmer feel makes it easy to wear during long practices or tournaments without distraction.
- Confidence boost: Helps you focus on performance, whether you’re shooting hoops, catching a pass, or sparring in martial arts.
Who Should Wear A Sports Mouthguard?
Mouthguards are helpful for anyone who participates in contact or high-energy sports. Children and teens often need them for school activities, while adults benefit from them in recreational leagues. Even athletes in non-contact activities can benefit from the added peace of mind.
- Kids and teens: Playing football, basketball, hockey, or soccer, where collisions are common.
- Adult athletes: Competing in recreational or professional sports such as rugby or boxing.
- Action enthusiasts: Biking, skateboarding, or martial arts participants who face the risk of falling or being struck.
How Are Custom Sports Mouthguards Made?
The process for creating a custom sports mouthguard is quick and straightforward. Your dentist takes detailed impressions of your teeth, which are then used to design the perfect fit. Once fabricated in the lab, the guard is adjusted to ensure comfort and reliability.
- Detailed impressions: A mold of your teeth ensures accuracy, so the guard stays firmly in place even during sprints or tackles.
- Lab fabrication: Guard created with strong, medical-grade materials designed for durability and long-lasting wear.
- Final adjustment: Dentist checks the fit for comfort, making sure it won’t shift while you talk, breathe, or play.
The Importance Of Wearing A Mouthguard
A mouthguard does more than just protect your teeth. It also lowers the risk of needing costly emergency treatment after an accident on the field. Wearing one regularly is a small habit with long-lasting benefits.
- Protects oral health: Helps reduce the risk of broken or lost teeth that could impact eating, speaking, and smiling.
- Prevents costly care: Avoids the need for expensive emergency treatment or future restorative work like crowns and implants.
- Supports active lifestyle: Gives you the freedom to enjoy sports with peace of mind, knowing your smile is protected.
Caring For Your Custom Sports Mouthguard
Taking care of your mouthguard helps it last longer and stay effective. Cleaning and storing it properly prevents bacteria buildup and damage. With the right routine, you’ll always have reliable protection.
- Rinse and clean: Wash before and after each use with cold water or a mild cleanser to keep it fresh.
- Proper storage: Keep in a ventilated case to prevent odors or bacteria growth when not in use.
- Monitor wear: Replace if it becomes loose, cracked, or uncomfortable, especially after a tough season.
- Bring to check-ups: Have Dr. Funk review the fit during regular dental visits to ensure ongoing protection.
Protect The Smile That
Powers Your Game
Your teeth deserve the same protection as the rest of your body during sports. A custom sports mouthguard provides comfort, reliability, and peace of mind every time you play. With Mint Dental Care in Twin Falls, ID, you can trust you’re getting expert care tailored to your needs. Call today to schedule your appointment and keep your smile safe for every game.