Mouthguards for Contact Sports and Teeth Grinding

Mouthguards are used for several reasons, to protect you from broken teeth and other tooth damage.

Most mouthguards that are used during a contact sport fit the upper teeth to offer protection. Sports mouthguards can help protect the teeth, lips, tongue, and soft tissues of the mouth. If you or your children participate in contact sports, it is highly recommended to find an American Dental Association-approved appliance to protect the teeth. Stock mouth protectors for sports can be found at many sporting goods stores and are already pre-formed and ready to wear. Mouthguards can also be worn for noncontact sports with a high fall risk like gymnastics or ice skating.

Teeth grinding mouthguards protect the upper and lower teeth from grinding damage. There are premade mouthguards available for this purpose, but they can also be created to fit your mouth precisely.

There are two different types of mouthguards we offer at our dental office in Cheshire:

Boil and Bite Mouthguards

A boil and bite mouthguard is available in several different colors. These mouthguards are designed to fit your mouth’s unique shape and can be used for sports like field hockey, ice hockey, basketball, or football. They are made from a thermoplastic material that is boiled before it is placed in the mouth. After boiling, it will fit the contours of your teeth. Dr. Kurtz recommends only using these types of mouthguards for sports.

Custom Fitted Mouth Protectors

Dr. Kurtz also offers custom-made mouthguards. They are created with a 3D mouth tracer and a dental impression that will allow Dr. Kurtz to create a mouth protector that fits precisely to your mouth. These mouth protectors are comfortable because they are made from a rubber material to offer the best protection in many situations. These mouthguards can be used for sports, teeth grinding, and to prevent snoring.

What if You Wear Braces?

Mouthguards are critical for athletes wearing braces or having fixed bridgework since there is a higher risk of dental injury in contact sports. Dr. Kurtz recommends mouthguards even if you wear braces. They can help protect against mouth injuries during contact sports. Mouthguard material has been made specifically to cover braces without damaging the mouth guard itself. However, if you have a removable appliance, you should take out the other removable appliance like clear aligners before you put in your mouthguard.

Caring for Your Mouthguard

When you have a mouthguard of any kind, you will want to take proper care of it. Here are some tips for taking care of your new mouthguard:

• Keep the mouthguard out of direct sunlight.
• Wash with cold, soapy water to keep your mouthguard clean.
• Always keep your mouthguard in case when it’s not in use.
• Replace the mouthguard every 12-18 months, depending on the type and how often it is used.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

For custom-fit mouthguards that will offer you the best protection and great fit, contact Dr. Kurtz today.

Here is what the process of the appointment will look like:

First, Dr. Kurtz will discuss with you the type of guard you need. Whether you require a guard for sports or a night guard for grinding or snoring, we can create the best mouthguard for your dental needs.

To create the custom-fitted guard, Dr. Kurtz will take a mold or will digitally scan your mouth. The impression will form the shape of the mouthguard. Depending on what type of mouthguard you need, Dr. Kurtz may take impressions of only the top and front teeth or the lower jaw and bottom teeth as well. Soon you will have a perfect fit mouthguard to protect your teeth.

Your dental and oral health is important, and you will want extra protection to prevent tooth loss or damage from teeth grinding and recreational activities. Contact our office in Cheshire to set up an appointment today!