Mouth Guards in Utah, Arizona, New Mexico & colorado

Mouth guards are essential protective devices for anyone engaging in sports or recreational activities that might pose a risk to their teeth, gums, and jaws. They help cushion blows that could cause serious dental injuries, making them crucial for both children and adults active in physical pursuits.

What are Mouth Guards?

Mouth guards protect against impact to the face, distributing the force of a blow over a larger area and thus reducing the severity of potential injury to the teeth, gums, and jaw. They are essential gear for anyone participating in sports where there's a risk of contact to the face. Mouth guards are protective devices worn over the teeth to prevent injuries during physical activities. There are three main types of mouth guards:

Types of Mouth Guards

• Stock Mouth Guards: These are pre-formed and ready to wear, but often do not fit perfectly since they aren't tailored to the individual.
• Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards: Made from thermoplastic material, these guards are placed in hot water to soften, then inserted in the mouth to form around the teeth using pressure from the tongue and fingers.
• Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards: Created by a dental professional from a mold of your teeth, these offer the best fit and protection as they are tailored specifically to the individual’s dental structure.

Why Mouthguards Are Crucial After Orthodontic Treatment

Avoid Risk of Dental Injuries

Participating in sports like mountain biking, rock climbing, and various contact sports prevalent in the Southwest increases the risk of dental injuries. The nature of these activities means accidents can easily result in severe impacts to the mouth, potentially leading to chipped or broken teeth, nerve damage to a tooth, or even tooth loss.

Minimize Long-Term Consequences

Without a mouth guard, the long-term consequences of sports-related dental injuries can include costly dental repairs, long-term pain, and potential complications that may affect dental health for years. For example, a knocked-out tooth might lead to misalignment of the remaining teeth, and unresolved dental trauma could result in chronic jaw pain or headaches.

Preventive Benefits

Mouth guards are a simple preventive measure that can spare athletes from severe pain and high treatment costs associated with sports-related dental injuries. By absorbing and dispersing the impact energy, mouth guards minimize the risk of trauma and allow athletes to enjoy their favorite activities with added safety and peace of mind.

Choosing the Right mouth guard for You

Selecting the appropriate mouth guard is crucial for ensuring maximum protection and comfort. Consider the following factors:

Comfort:

It should be comfortable enough to wear for extended periods, especially during long training sessions or competitions.

fit:

The mouth guard should fit snugly over your teeth and gums. A poor fit can be uncomfortable and may not provide adequate protection.

durability:

Look for materials that are durable enough to withstand the impact of your specific sport without tearing or deforming.

protection

The mouth guard offers sufficient protection for the nature of the activity. High-contact sports may require thicker, more robust guards.

Comparing Types of Mouth Guards

• Stock Mouth Guards are the most accessible and inexpensive option but offer the least protection and comfort due to their generic fit.

• Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards provide a better fit than stock options and are relatively affordable, making them a popular choice for many athletes.

• Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards, while more expensive, offer the best protection and comfort as they are made to fit precisely to the user’s mouth.

Care & Maintenance of Mouth Guards

Proper care extends the life of your mouth guard and ensures it remains effective in protecting your dental health. By choosing the right mouth guard and maintaining it properly, athletes can safeguard their dental health effectively, ensuring they can compete with confidence and stay protected against injuries.

Cleaning:

Rinse your mouth guard with water after each use. Clean it using a toothbrush and toothpaste or soap and water daily. Avoid using hot water as it can warp the material.

Storage:

Store the mouth guard in a firm, perforated container to protect it from damage and allow air circulation to prevent bacteria growth. Keep it away from extreme temperatures to maintain its shape.

Regular Replacement

Mouth guards should be replaced regularly to ensure they continue to offer optimal protection. The replacement frequency depends on several factors:

• Usage: Frequent use can lead to wear and tear.
• Growth: Children and teenagers may need new mouth guards more often due to growth and dental changes.
• Condition: Look for signs of deterioration such as holes, tears, or a poor fit, which indicate it’s time for a replacement.

Getting a Custom-Fitted Mouth Guard

Opting for a custom-fitted mouth guard ensures that you receive the highest level of protection and comfort available, tailored specifically to your dental profile. The process of obtaining a custom-fitted mouth guard involves several steps:

1. Dental Consultation: Visit a dental professional who will assess your specific needs based on the sports you participate in and your dental history.
2. Molding Process: The dentist takes an impression of your teeth, which is used to create an exact replica of your mouth.
3. Manufacture: This mold is sent to a dental lab where the mouth guard is crafted to fit snugly over your teeth and gums.
4. Fitting Session: Once the mouth guard is ready, you will have a final fitting to ensure comfort and protection.

Mouth Guards in Arizona, utah, Colorado, & new mexico

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