Mouth-related injuries are common among people who engage in contact sports such as baseball, boxing, and football. Because of this, players wear Midtown mouth guards to reduce the risk of injuries and avoid breaking and even losing their teeth. They can be worn by both children and adults and are beneficial for people who grind and clench their teeth. If you need a mouth guard, it is best to consider one that offers the best fit due to protection and comfort purposes. Here is what you need to know about mouth guards.
What is a mouth guard?
Mouth guards are dental devices that fit snuggly over your teeth and offer covering from trauma caused by injuries and bad habits like teeth grinding. Both kids and adults can use mouth guards for different reasons. For example, you can wear a mouth guard if you play contact sports such as baseball, and your child who grinds their teeth may need one. Other activities that require you to cover your teeth include biking and ice skating.
Types of mouthguards
· Custom fitted
A custom-fitted mouth guard is designed in a professional laboratory to meet your personal needs. They offer the right fit since your specialist uses impressions of your teeth to make a mouth guard based on the size and shape of your teeth. A custom-made mouth guard can be made to protect your teeth from grinding or for use during sporting activities.
· Boil-and-bite
As the name suggests, these devices are made from a thermoplastic material that can be molded to any shape. They provide a better fit than stock mouth coverings since they take the shape of your natural teeth. You dip the mouth guard in hot water to make it soft, then, using your fingers, press it onto the molars and front teeth. After its positioning feels right, bit down for seconds, remove the device and run it in cold water. If it does not fit well, you can repeat the steps until you achieve the right fit.
· Stock mouth guards
These are ready-made mouth protectors which you can get at sports stores. They are the least expensive, and most of the time, they do not offer the right fit since they are not mainly designed for your teeth. Stock mouth guards may feel bulky, making breathing and talking challenging. Since they offer the least protection, specialists do not recommend their use.
Tips for caring for your mouth guard
- Clean your mouth guard after each use with soap and cool water, or you can use a mouth rinse instead. Avoid using hot water as it can distort its shape, which affects the fit. After cleaning, air dries the mouth guard before storage.
- Your mouthguard should be stored in a perforated container to allow air circulation and prevent damage. Mouthguards that are made of acrylic should be placed in fresh, clean water.
- Check your mouthguard for general wear and replace if it has a hole or it no longer fits as it should.
- Keep it away from children and pets as they can damage or lose your mouth guard.
If you need a custom-fitted mouth guard, visit your dentist at Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates to have your smile redefined.