Types and Benefits Of Mouthguards

Playing contact sports or grinding your teeth can impact your teeth. According to ADA (American Dental Association), players who don’t wear mouthguards when playing sports are at an increased risk of losing them. On the other hand, grinding teeth can cause the teeth to weaken. Getting mouthguards near you is a sure way of protecting your teeth.

What are Mouthguards?

A mouthguard is a protective device worn over the teeth to protect them from injury during sports. These devices are usually made of hard plastic or soft material and can be custom-made or purchased over the counter.

Mouthguards are used in contact sports like football and boxing; however, wearing a mouthguard does not guarantee that you won’t break or damage your teeth during play. If you’re considering using one for protection, consult with your dentist near you first so they can determine if it’s right for you!

Who Should Use a Mouthguard?

A dentist in 33635 can recommend mouthguards for people playing contact sports or people who are grinding teeth. Mouthguards have also proven to help people who snore because they hold the jaw and open the airwaves.

What are the Types of Mouthguards?

These mouth devices come in different types, which include:

• Stock mouthguards

Stock mouthguards are the least expensive option and are ready to wear, with no fitting required. They come in three sizes-small, medium, and large to cater to different people. They are comfortable and easy to clean but bulky and not customized. This type of mouthguard does not fit well, so it won’t provide the protection you need.

• Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Boil-and-bite mouthguards are made of thermoplastic polyurethane. These mouth protectors can be purchased at sporting goods stores and pharmacies. These mouthguards involve boiling and biting the mouthguard to attain the ideal shape.

• Customized Mouthguards

Customized mouthguards are probably the most expensive type of mouthguard. They are generally more comfortable, durable and fit than stock mouthguards. These mouthguards create an impression of your teeth to make a fitting mouthguard. They are mostly recommended if you grind your teeth because they are more effective and have a perfect fit.

Benefits of Mouthguards

Mouthguards are important pieces of your dental health. They’re made to protect your teeth from injury and help reduce the risks associated with playing sports like football, hockey, and basketball. Mouthguards can also protect against concussions which can happen when someone hits you hard in the face with an elbow or fist during a game.

A mouthguard will protect against jaw fractures (a broken jaw), chipped teeth (broken off at the enamel level), tooth loss, and jaw pain caused by impact to your face or head during a collision on the field or court!

Caring for your mouthguard

Mouthguards should be cleaned after each use. Do not use a toothbrush or any other hard object to clean your mouthguard—it can damage the material and even scratch the back of your teeth. Instead, use lukewarm water and a soft cloth to wipe it down. Soak your mouthguard in water or denture cleaner when not in use to keep them moist and avoid bacteria growth that could lead to infection.

Also, the mouthguards can crack and chip, so visit an emergency dentist in Tampa for a replacement when this happens.

How Much Do Mouthguards Cost?

The cost of mouthguards varies depending on the type of mouthguard you purchase and where you buy it.

How Soon Should You Replace a Mouthguard?

We recommend you visit a dental office near you to get a new mouthguard after every season or six months if possible. Studies show that the mouthguard becomes less protective over time when it loses thickness. Weak mouthguards increase your risk of injury and can hurt your gums too.

Schedule an Appointment

It’s easy to see why mouthguards are such a popular piece of equipment. The best part is that they don’t have to be expensive. So if you’re looking for an edge in your next game or tournament, visit Dental Arts Westbay Dental for more information about mouthguards.