Sports Guard
Estacada, OR
 Athletes of all ages should protect their teeth, gums, and jaw while participating in sports. A sports mouthguard is a flexible, protective appliance worn over the teeth to prevent injuries during physical activities. These mouth guards, typically made from rubber-like materials, shield the teeth and surrounding oral structures from damage and avoid dental emergencies.
Three Main Types of Mouthguards
While stock and boil-and-bite mouthguards are easily accessible, custom mouthguards are highly recommended for athletes in high-contact sports due to their superior protection and comfort.
Stock Mouthguards
These pre-formed mouthguards are ready to wear. They provide the least protection and comfort as they aren't customized to fit the user's mouth.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Made from thermoplastic, these mouthguards are softened in hot water, then molded to fit the athlete's teeth by biting down. They offer better protection than stock options but are still less effective than custom models.
Custom-Made Mouthguards
We find that custom-made mouthguards, like those you can get at River Mill Dental, provide the best fit, comfort, and protection. Custom mouthguards are made using impressions of the athlete's teeth, ensuring a precise fit tailored to their unique mouth structure.
What Do Mouthguards Protect Against?
The primary function of a sports mouthguard is to prevent injuries to the teeth and surrounding areas during physical activity.
Mouthguards help reduce the risk of:
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Tooth fractures or loss: A strong impact to the face can cause teeth to crack, chip, or even be knocked out. Mouthguards cushion the blow and help distribute the force to minimize damage.
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Soft tissue injuries: Mouthguards protect the lips, tongue, and cheeks from cuts and lacerations caused by contact with the teeth during impact.
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Jaw fractures: By absorbing the force of a hit, mouthguards help reduce the likelihood of jaw fractures.
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Concussions: Some studies suggest that mouthguards may also reduce the severity of concussions by stabilizing the jaw and absorbing impact to the head. |
How Are Custom Mouthguards Made?
For athletes opting for custom-made mouthguards, the dentist will first take an impression of the athlete's teeth. This will be done using dental putty or a digital scanner. This impression is sent to a lab to create a custom-fit mouthguard. In the lab, technicians use the impression to form a model of the athlete's teeth. Layers of protective material are then molded over this model to create the mouthguard. Once the mouthguard is ready, we will ensure it fits snugly and comfortably. Any adjustments needed to improve comfort or protection will be made before the athlete takes it home.
Tips for Maintaining Your Sports Mouthguard
Proper maintenance of your mouthguard is key to keeping it effective and hygienic.
Follow these steps to ensure your mouthguard stays in top condition:
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Rinse the mouthguard with cool water or mouthwash immediately after each use.
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Clean the mouthguard regularly using a toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste, or soak it in a denture-cleaning solution.
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Store the mouthguard in a well-ventilated container to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
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Avoid exposing the mouthguard to direct sunlight or hot water, as this can cause warping. |
A sports mouthguard is an essential piece of protective equipment for all athletes. By choosing a custom-fit sports guard and ensuring it's well-maintained, athletes can significantly reduce their risk of dental and facial injuries, keeping their smiles safe while they enjoy the game. Give RIver Mill Dental a call at 503-630-4218 if you are in need of a custom-fitted guard. |
