If you are an athlete involved in vigorous activities and high impact sports, it is important that you exert extra efforts in protecting your teeth and mouth. After all, thousands of sports-related dental injuries are treated every year in emergency rooms across the world.
One of the ways you can protect your teeth and mouth when you play sports is by wearing custom mouthguards. If you’re still not sure why you need one, read on and find out some of the ways a mouthguard can offer you protection.
It helps prevent lacerations. A custom-fit mouthguard completely covers the sharp surfaces of your teeth so the soft tissues of your cheeks, gums, tongue, and lips are protected from lacerations that may occur from a sudden blow or jolt.
It helps prevent injuries to the teeth and jaw. Aside from protecting you against soft tissue lacerations, a custom-fit mouthguard can also protect your jaws and teeth from injuries. That means you don’t have to worry about chipped or broken teeth, fractured teeth, and fully knocked-out teeth!
It can reduce the risk of jaw displacement and joint fractures. When you wear a properly fitted mouthguard, your risk of suffering from jaw displacement and joint fractures is greatly minimized. This is because your mouthguard can cushion the jaws against damage from impacts. A mouthguard can effectively absorb and distribute force from impact so your jaws are protected.
It can protect you from direct impacts. As an athlete, you are exposed to serious injuries to jaws and teeth. Wearing a mouthguard can help you avoid serious injuries that may be caused by direct impacts. This is very important, especially if you are diagnosed with TMJ.
It keeps you protected from under chin impacts. Every athlete knows that receiving a blow under the chin can cause serious damage to your teeth. More than that, it can cause damage to the jaws and even cause TMJ issues. Wearing a custom-fit mouthguard can ensure that you are protected from such a damaging impact.
Now you may be wondering, there are many over-the-counter mouthguards that you can easily buy at drugstores, why should you shell out for a custom-fit one?
There are quite a number of reasons why custom-fit mouthguards are a better choice. First, of course, is that a custom-fit mouthguard is prescribed and created using a thermoplastic material, based on a very detailed mould taken of your teeth and mouth. Because it is customized to your needs, the thickness can be adjusted so you get optimum protection but still comfortable to wear. It’s also more durable so it will last you longer. It can also withstand forces during sports better.
Do not compromise your teeth, gums, jaws, and mouth when you are playing your favourite sports. Wear custom-fit mouthguards! Dental Laboratory Associates can refer you to one of our partner dentists so you can have one fitted!