Mouthguards
Use custom-fitted mouth guards when you play sports. A mouthguard, custom-fitted by your dentist, may help to reduce the risk of dental injuries. Sport, leisure and recreation activities are the most common cause of dental injuries.
Importance of custom fitted mouth guards
Dentists can make custom-fitted mouth guards that offer far more protection and comfort than standard varieties. Given standard mouth guards don’t fit as accurately as custom-made mouth guards, they are often uncomfortable and can interfere with an individual’s breathing and speaking ability.
Is it right for you?
Custom-fitted mouth guards are especially designed by the dentist to fit the individual’s mouth. They provide the best protection due to their close fit, comfort and cushioning (shock absorption) effect.
What is involved?
A custom fitted mouth guard is made by a dentist using an impression taken of your teeth and a plaster model. Custom fitting allows for an accurate assessment of your mouth and provide the best fit, size coverage and thickness in a mouth guard especially for you. Dr Boorer can also make an assessment of any risk factors you might have and recommend the best type of mouth guard appropriate for your sport.
How to correctly care for your mouthguard
Recommendations include:
• Rinse the mouth guard in soap and warm water after each use. Allowing it to air-dry.
• Disinfect the mouth guard from time to time with a mouthwash.
• Keep the mouth guard in a well-ventilated plastic storage box when not in use. The box should have several holes in it.
• Do not leave the mouth guard in direct sunlight, in a closed car or in the car’s glove box. Heat can damage it.
• Ask your dentist to inspect your mouth guard at every dentalcheckup.
• Replace the mouth guard if it is damaged.
• Replace a child’s mouth guard every 12 to 18 months, even if it appears to be in good condition. Growth and new teeth can alter the fit.
• Replace an adult’s mouth guard after dental treatment or tooth loss. Otherwise it should last for many years.
General Safety Tips
You will be guided by your dentist, general suggestions include:
• Ensure you wear the mouth guard at all times during games and training sessions.
• Players undergoing orthodontic treatment can have a custom-fitted mouth guard made by their dentist to fit comfortably and accurately over their braces.
• See your dentist if the mouth guard starts to feel uncomfortable or doesn’t fit well.
How long will a mouthguard last?
Your dentist should review your mouth guard at least every 12 months to ensure it is fitting correctly. Sometimes, a mouth guard needs to be replaced if major changes occur to the teeth, like restorations or adult teeth coming through.