Do you or your child play contact sports like soccer, hockey, baseball, or lacrosse? Receive custom sports mouthguards at Waterford Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Leland, NC. Sports mouthguards are a general dental solution that helps protect the teeth and gums from damage during sports. Not wearing a sports mouthguard during contact sports can lead to chipped, cracked, fractured, or even lost teeth.
Receive a sports mouthguard today to prevent cosmetic or restorative repairs down the road.
Professional vs. Store-Bought Sports Mouthguards
Professional mouthguards are made specifically to fit your mouth. Because of this, they are less bulky than store-bought mouthguards and are more comfortable and reliable. Patients don’t need to clench their teeth to keep their professional sports mouthguard in place, which can put unnecessary pressure on the jaw. You can also drink water and speak easily when wearing your custom sports mouthguard.
Over-the-counter mouthguards can distract from the game because they can fall out or cause discomfort. Wearing a properly fitting mouthguard helps absorb shock taken from a hit to the face. It stabilizes the head and neck to reduce the chance of severe injury.
Receiving a Sports Mouthguard
You can receive a custom-made mouthguard after just two visits to our Waterford dental office. To begin treatment, we will take dental impressions of all of your teeth. We will send these impressions to a dental laboratory where your custom mouthguard is fabricated. Once the mouthguard is complete, we will ensure that the mouthguard fits properly at your next visit.
Sports mouthguards are simple to care for. You can clean and rinse your mouthguard using soap or mouthwash and warm water. Keeping your mouthguard clean helps eliminate harmful bacteria. If your child is receiving a sports mouthguard, it may need to be replaced over time, usually each sports season, as their adult teeth come in.
Proper Mouthguard Care
The first step in caring for your mouthguard is cleaning it after every use. Saliva, bacteria, and food particles can build up on its surface, creating unpleasant odors and increasing the risk of oral infections.
To clean your guard, rinse it under cool water immediately after removing it. Then, use a soft toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste to gently scrub away debris. Avoid hot water, as heat can warp the mouthguard and affect its fit.
Drying your mouthguard thoroughly before storage is equally important. A damp mouthguard can become a breeding ground for bacteria or mold. After rinsing and brushing, place it on a clean towel or surface and allow it to air dry completely. Only once it is fully dry should you place it in its storage case.
Proper storage also helps extend the life of your mouthguard. Always keep it in a ventilated container that allows air circulation to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid leaving your guard loose in a gym bag, pocket, or on a countertop, as this exposes it to dirt, bacteria, and potential damage. Cleaning the storage case regularly is another simple but effective step in preventing contamination.
Regular inspections of your mouthguard are essential. Over time, you may notice signs of wear such as cracks, thinning, or rough edges. These changes can reduce its effectiveness and cause discomfort or irritation. If you see damage, contact your dentist to repair or replace the guard. Wearing a damaged mouthguard not only reduces protection but can also increase your risk of oral injuries.
Avoid harmful habits that shorten your mouthguard’s lifespan. Chewing on it, bending it, or exposing it to direct heat, such as leaving it in a hot car, can weaken the material. Treating your mouthguard with care will help you avoid costly and inconvenient replacements.
Custom Mouthguard FAQs
Custom mouthguards have many benefits compared to ones you can purchase over the counter. Learn more by reading the answers to the questions below.
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
The lifespan of a custom mouthguard depends on how often you use it and how well you care for it. With proper cleaning and storage, many last between one and five years. Athletes and people who grind their teeth heavily may need replacements more often due to wear.
Will a custom mouthguard affect my speech?
In most cases, custom mouthguards have little to no impact on your speech once you adjust to wearing them. Because they are slim and precisely fitted, they do not create the bulkiness that store-bought guards often cause. Some minor lisping may occur initially, but it usually disappears within a few days of use. Athletes and patients often find they can communicate clearly while wearing their guard.
Can I wear a custom mouthguard with braces?
Yes, custom mouthguards can be made to fit comfortably over braces. In fact, they are highly recommended for athletes with braces to protect both the teeth and the orthodontic appliances. Unlike generic guards, custom ones won’t interfere as much with brackets and wires.
What happens if I don’t clean my mouthguard properly?
Failing to clean your mouthguard can lead to a buildup of bacteria, plaque, and even mold. This can cause bad breath, oral infections, or gum irritation. A dirty mouthguard may also wear down faster and develop unpleasant odors. Proper cleaning after each use is the best way to avoid these problems.
How do I know if my custom mouthguard fits correctly?
A properly fitted custom mouthguard should feel snug over your teeth without slipping or shifting. It should not pinch your gums, cause sore spots, or feel overly tight. You should be able to breathe and speak comfortably while wearing it. If the guard feels loose or painful, schedule an appointment with your dentist for an adjustment.
What should I do if my custom mouthguard feels uncomfortable?
If your custom mouthguard feels uncomfortable, schedule an appointment with your dentist for an adjustment. Sometimes minor changes to the fit are needed after the initial delivery. Avoid trying to modify it yourself, as this could damage the guard and reduce its effectiveness. A well-fitted mouthguard should feel comfortable and secure without causing pain or irritation.
Request a Dental Consultation
If you or your child needs a new sports mouthguard, call our professional dental team at 910-519-1624 or schedule an appointment with us online. Let us know if you have any questions about sports mouthguards, and we will be glad to help.
