Is your child’s future oral health protected from sports-related injuries? Are your store-bought mouthguards standard fit, causing slipping and falling out?
You only have one set of teeth. Your teeth can not grow back, protect them with a sports mouthguard.
You always make sure your child is wearing their pads when hitting the football field, but have you thought about protecting their teeth? Sports-related injuries are one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Both children and adult athletes can benefit from wearing a custom-designed sports mouthguard during play.
Custom mouthguards fit better and offer superior protection in comparison to over-the-counter “bite-and-fit” options. Your family dentist in Owings Mills MD offers custom mouthguards for athletes of all ages. From little league to the pros, all athletes should protect their teeth from damage or loss while playing contact sports.
Custom Sports Mouthguards in Owings Mills
Over-the-counter mouthguard options tend to fit poorly. Athletes often feel frustrated by the bulky device. They may have difficulty keeping it in place while they are playing sports. Adolescent athletes are prone to removing the device and may not wear it during practice or the game because they feel distracted by the bad fit.
This act alone makes them 50% more susceptible to oral injury. Sports-related injuries can result in serious tooth damage, and even tooth loss requiring advanced restorative dental treatments.
Mouthguards only work if worn properly.
Custom mouthguards are designed to the exact dimensions of the athlete’s smile for maximum protection. Custom-fit mouthguards do not require the athlete to constantly bite down on the device to keep it in their mouth. They have been shown to actually improve performance, reduce jaw stress and tension. Athletes are able to concentrate on the game without worry that their mouthguard is going to fall out.
Athletes are less likely to remove the device because they are able to drink and speak normally while wearing the mouthguard. With a well-fit mouthguard, your athlete can focus on their performance, and you can feel confident that their teeth are well-protected.
Receiving a Custom Sports Mouthguard in Owings Mills, MD
Receiving a sports mouthguard is a quick, comfortable, and easy process.
The dentist will take an impression mold of the patient’s mouth. The molds are then sent to a dental lab for fabrication. The mouthguard will be created according to the specifications of the patient’s mouth ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.
The mouthguard will be ready for pickup from our Owings Mills dentist office and ready for use right away. But before we send you out the door, we will make sure you are fully satisfied with your new mouthguard. your doctor will also provide you with instructions on how to care for your new mouthguard.
Your child’s teeth and oral health are important aspects of their development. A custom sports mouthguard can protect their natural smile from permanent damage. A mouthguard is a cost-effective alternative to replacing missing teeth after a sports injury. Ask your dentist about custom mouthguards at your family’s next dental health exam.
Custom Mouthguards vs Store-Bought Mouthguards
The custom mouthguards that we create offer several advantages over store-bought options. Here are the key differences between the two:
- Fit: Your dentist will design the custom mouthguards specifically for your mouth, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit. On the other hand, store-bought mouthguards are mass-produced. They offer a generic fit that may not protect your teeth or provide any level of comfort.
- Protection: Custom mouthguards offer the best protection for your teeth, jaws, and gums. We craft them to absorb impact and distribute those forces evenly to reduce your risk of dental injuries. Store-bought mouthguards may not provide the same level of protection because they are not tailored to your unique dental structure.
- Comfort: Your dentist will design custom mouthguards to fit snugly and securely. This custom fit offers top-level comfort and allows you to speak and breathe naturally. Store-bought mouthguards can feel bulky and uncomfortable. Some of them may even restrict your breathing or fall out easily.
- Durability: A dental lab creates custom mouthguards from high-quality materials that will last a long time. They are crafted to withstand the forces of impact and maintain their shape over time. Most store-bought mouthguards are more prone to wear and tear because of the poor material they are made from.
- Oral Health: We can make you a custom mouthguard to accommodate your specific dental needs even if you have braces. This will ensure a proper fit and offer you the best level of protection for your teeth, jaw, and soft tissues.
Custom Mouthguard FAQs
Protect your smile with our custom-made mouthguards in Owings Mills. If you are an athlete seeking top level dental protection, we tailor our custom mouthguards to your unique dental profile. However, this level of protection is an investment. We understand you may have questions before investing in a custom mouthguard. Read through these frequently asked questions and contact us if you still have questions.
Can a sports mouthguard be worn at night for teeth grinding?
There are different types of oral appliances for teeth grinding, called night guards and snore guards. You should not wear your custom sports mouthguards overnight. They only protect your teeth from physical hits for a few hours during contact sports. They will not help you prevent teeth grinding and may damage your jaw if worn overnight.
How often should I replace a sports mouthguard?
You should replace your custom sports mouthguards before every sports season. Our young athletes grow out of their mouthguards every year. It’s imperative that they replace their mouthguards for a proper fit. You risk damaging your teeth and gums by wearing an old mouthguard.
How do you clean a sports mouthguard?
Maintaining your mouthguard is easier than you think. Gently wash your mouthguard with soap and water right before putting it away. Always rinse it with water before and after every use. Do not soak your mouthguard overnight. Use harsh chemicals like hand sanitizer, dish soap, bleach, isopropyl alcohol, or any alcohol-based cleaning solutions.
How long do custom mouthguards last?
The lifespan of custom mouthguards can vary depending on the type of mouthguard and how well you care for it. Custom mouthguards for sports can last six months to two years if you properly care for them. Custom-fitted mouthguards for bruxism can last up to three years. It’s important to regularly inspect these mouthguards for signs of wear, such as thinning or tears.
Can custom mouthguards be worn with braces?
Yes, you can wear one with braces. In fact, we highly recommend that patients with braces use a custom mouthguard during sports or other activities with a risk of impact or injury. We will design the mouthguard to fit comfortably over your braces, protecting your teeth, jaws, and orthodontic investment.
Can custom mouthguards prevent concussions?
While custom mouthguards cannot guarantee concussion prevention, they do significantly reduce the risk and severity of concussions during athletic activities. Because of their secure fit, a custom mouthguard stabilizes the head and neck and absorbs impact forces. This minimizes movement and potential trauma to the brain. Custom mouthguards are a vital piece of protective gear for athletes, offering an additional layer of safety.
How long does it take to get a custom mouthguard?
The process of creating a custom mouthguard typically involves taking impressions of your teeth, crafting the guard, and scheduling a fitting appointment. The total time can vary but generally takes around two to three weeks. This ensures a precise fit and allows for any necessary adjustments during the fitting.
What should I do if my mouthguard feels uncomfortable?
If your custom mouthguard feels uncomfortable, it is crucial to contact us as soon as possible. Your dentist can adjust the mouthguard to ensure that it fits properly. Minor discomfort during the initial break-in period is normal. However, the mouthguard needs adjustments if you experience persistent pain or irritation. We can smooth sharp edges, adjust the fit, or provide guidance on adapting to your new mouthguard.
Custom mouthguards stand out in every aspect. They can provide you with a superior fit, enhanced protection, improved comfort, and better durability when you compare them to store-bought mouthguards. Owings Mills Dental Care will craft your mouthguard using your unique dental profile. This ensures optimal oral health and protection during sports or other activities. With custom mouthguards, you can be confident in your oral safety and comfort. Call 410-782-3021 or request an appointment online to get yours today.