Athletic Mouthguards for Protection and Performance
A mouthguard is a flexible plastic appliance that is worn
during recreational and athletic activities to protect the
teeth from trauma or loss and to prevent jaw fractures.
Mouthguards also minmize cut and bruised lips and cheeks
by keeping soft tissue from contacting the teeth. This is especially
true for those wearing orthodontic braces.
The mouth is the most frequently injured area of the body
during contact sports. Mouthguards should be used by those
participating in boxing, basketball, football, hockey, lacrosse,
martial arts, soccer, wrestling, rugby and water polo.
The American Dental Association also recommends the use
of mouthguards for those participating in acrobatics, gymnastics,
volleyball, racquetball, skiing, skydiving, squash, surfing, weightlifting,
and some track and field events.
Those participating in activities such as skateboarding and bicycling
should also wear mouthguards, especially if they compete.
In order to remain effective, a mouthguard should remain in place
during the activity, while not interfering with talking or breathing.
It should provide maximum protection while being comfortable
in place. There are three types of mouthguards to choose from:
1. Off the shelf. (ready made) Most sporting goods stores carry
these and they are the most affordable. They are available in
numerous sizes and shapes but cannot be adjusted to fit your mouth
They are often times loose and bulky and may interfere with speech
or breathing.
2. Mouth-formed (“Boil and bite fit”) These are also available in
most sporting goods stores and are relatively inexpensive. The plastic
mouthguard is boiled in water anywhere between 10-45 seconds,
cooled under tap water and bite molded directly in the mouth.
Compared to custom fitted guards, the fit is not as accurate and it
may not last as long.
3. Custom-made: This type is highly recommended and most
effective. We make them in our dental office from an impression
of your teeth. They are a bit more expensive than those bought off
the shelf, but offer the best protection and comfort. This option
is well worth the extra cost for safety and peace of mind.
Over time, mouthguards can wear out and lose their effectiveness
just like any other piece of sports equipment. They may have to be
replaced after every sports season. Proper care can extend their
usefulness. Heat and direct sunlight is bad for mouthguards because
they can cause deformation. Keep them from direct exposure , rinse
them under cold water with each use and clean them with soap and
cold water regularly. When not in use, store them in a appropriate
plastic container or immersed in a container of water. Lastly, don’t
handle or borrow someone else’s mouthguard.
