All About Mouthguards

Mouthguards are designed to protect your teeth and gums from injury during playing sport of other physical activities. Typically made out of soft, pliable material, they can be custom-fitted to the wearer’s mouth for maximum protection and comfort.

How are mouthguards made?

Mouthguards are typically made by taking an impression mould of your mouth and gums, which is then used as a mould to create a custom-fit mouthguard. Overall, the process of making a mouthguard is relatively straightforward and typically takes a few days to complete. It is important to have a properly fitting mouthguard to ensure optimal protection during sports or other physical activities.

The steps for making a mouthguard are:

– Your dentist or dental hygienist will do a general clean of your teeth and gums to remove any debris or plaque from your teeth.
– Then, using an impression material called Alginate, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and gums. They do this by putting the alginate in a tray that is then placed over your teeth and gums and left to set for about 30 seconds.
– Once the impression is set, we will pour casting stone into the impression to create a model of the teeth and gums. Here at Tranquility Dentistry, we have the technology to make our mouthguards in house, so there is less delay in your mouthguard being ready for you to pick up.
– Your mouthguard is then made using the impression as a guide. A sheet of plastic is heated and moulded perfectly to the shape of your teeth and gums. It is then trimmed and polished to ensure a comfortable fit.
– Mouthguards can be adjusted or customised to include specific features, such as extra thickness for added protection for very physical activities, or can be made with specific team colours or designs.

What activities are mouthguards used for?

Mouthguards are commonly used in a variety of sports to protect the teeth and mouth from injury. Some of the sports where mouthguards are typically recommended or required include Football, Basketball, Hockey, Boxing, Rugby, Soccer, Martial arts and Volleyball.

They are also recommended for activities such as skateboarding, snowboarding, and skiing, where there is a risk of falls or collision. It is always a good idea to check the specific rules and regulations of your or your child’s sport or activity to see if mouthguards are required or recommended for safety.

Why are mouthguards so important?

They provide protection from dental injuries

Mouthguards can help protect your teeth and gums from impact during sports or other physical activities. They can help prevent chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth, as well as cuts and bruises to the lips, cheeks, and tongue.

They reduce the risk of concussion

Mouthguards can help reduce the risk of concussion by absorbing some of the impact that would otherwise be absorbed by the head and brain.

Improved breathing and speech

Mouthguards are well fitted so they are designed to stay in place and improve breathing and speech, which can be especially helpful for communicating with teammates or coaches during games or practices.

Protection for braces

Mouthguards can help protect teeth and braces from damage during sports or other physical activities, reducing the risk of expensive repairs.

Overall, mouthguards are an important part of protection from sports injuries. Having a custom-fitted mouthguard can make a big difference for you and your children this sporting season. If you’d like to learn more about mouthguards and getting one for you or your children, have a chat to one of our dentists at your next checkup.

All About Mouth Guards