Sports Guard
Pembroke Pines, FL
 Anyone who plays sports needs to make certain that they are protecting their mouth at all times. While some sports such as football and hockey include helmets that do help with this, many sports do not provide any form of protection. Even if you play a sport with protective gear, you should still wear a mouthguard. This protects your lips and tongue from cuts and prevents your teeth from being broken or knocked out and requiring emergency dentistry. Here at Everglades Family Dental, we can help create a custom mouthguard that is comfortable to wear and also provides the protection you need while playing sports.
What Is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard, sports guard, or sports mouthguard is a plastic device that you wear while playing sports or any other activity that could result in damage to your mouth. This plastic tray sits on top of your teeth and helps support and protect them. You generally wear a sports mouthguard on your upper teeth, although there are also lower mouthguards that may need to be worn at times and by those who have specific dental appliances or needs.
Types of Mouthguards for Sports
There are three options for a sports mouthguard. The most common, and the most ineffective, are standard guards. You purchase these guards as-is, which means they are something of a “one-size-fits-all” product. However, while they may work, they may not be very comfortable to wear. You may find that it is difficult to talk while wearing one of these guards.
The second option is called a boil and bite mouthguard. These mouthguards can be more comfortable because you do actually make them fit your mouth. You boil the mouthguard in hot water, then allow it to cool. While it is still warm and flexible, you bite into the material to create an imprint of your teeth. This option is still not the best, but it is better than a standard guard.
The best option for a mouthguard is a custom-made one. We will take a full impression of your teeth and custom-make your mouthguard to fit exactly. This is the best option for those who play a lot of sports and plan on continuing the hobby for quite some time. If you are a serious athlete, it can be a very worthwhile investment.
What Does a Mouthguard Do?
A mouthguard absorbs impact and acts as a shield for your mouth. The plastic reduces the amount of force that hits your teeth, which helps hold them in place and prevent chipping or breaking. The plastic guard is blunt, unlike your sharp front teeth, so it also prevents your teeth from cutting into your lips, tongue, or soft parts of your mouth.
Do You Need a Mouthguard?
If you plan on playing sports, especially any type of contact sport, a mouthguard is essential. It protects your teeth and the rest of your mouth from injuries that could be very painful or require surgery to repair. Children who play sports should also wear a mouthguard. If you would like to learn more about getting a custom mouthguard, contact Everglades Family Dental at (754) 764-0465.
|
