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What Are the Different Types of Mouthguards

Protecting your smile is essential, especially if you participate in high-impact sports or activities. That's where mouthguards come into play – they're like a personal bodyguard for your teeth! Whether you're an athlete or just someone who grinds their teeth at night, finding the right mouthguard can make all the difference in preserving your pearly whites. 

What is a Mouthguard?

A mouthguard is a protective device designed to cover and cushion your teeth, gums, and jaw. It acts as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing impact forces that could otherwise lead to tooth fractures or dislodgement. But mouthguards aren't just for athletes; they can also be used for individuals who grind their teeth at night or have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

These oral protectors come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different needs. They are typically made from resilient materials such as silicone or thermoplastic that provide both comfort and durability. Mouthguards work by distributing the force of an impact across a larger surface area, reducing the risk of injury.

Wearing a mouthguard during physical activities like football, boxing, or even skateboarding can significantly reduce the chances of dental injuries. Additionally, if you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), wearing a mouthguard while sleeping can help alleviate symptoms like jaw pain and headaches.

The Different Types of Mouthguards

Mouthguards are essential protective devices that help prevent injuries to the mouth and teeth during physical activities or sports. There are different types of mouthguards available on the market, each offering varying levels of protection and comfort.

  • One popular type is custom-fit mouthguards. These are professionally made by a dentist using an impression of your teeth. Custom-fit mouthguards provide the best fit and offer maximum protection while being comfortable to wear. They can be slightly more expensive than other options but are well worth it for their superior quality.
  • Another option is boil-and-bite mouthguards, which can be molded to fit your teeth at home. These mouthguards come in a pre-formed shape that softens when boiled and then bites down on to create a customized fit. While not as precise as custom-fit guards, they still offer good protection and tend to be more affordable.
  • Stock mouthguards, on the other hand, come ready-made in standard sizes and cannot be adjusted for an individual's teeth. They are typically inexpensive but may not provide the same level of comfort or protection as custom-fit or boil-and-bite options.

When choosing a suitable mouthguard, consider factors such as the level of contact involved in your activity or sport, personal preference for fit and comfort, budget constraints, if any exist, and advice from dental professionals who can guide you based on your specific needs.

Remember that wearing any type of properly fitting mouthguard is better than going without one entirely! So don't hesitate to invest in this simple yet crucial piece of protective gear for maintaining oral health during physical activities or sports.

To learn more about our dental services, contact Summit Denture Clinic at 130 - 2881 Garden Street, Abbotsford, BC V2T 4X1, or call (604) 776-2881. We also serve areas including Maple Ridge: V2W 0A1, V2W 0A2, V2W 0A3, V2W 0A4, V2W 0A5.

Location

130 – 2881 Garden Street,
Abbotsford, BC V2T 4X1

Office Hours

MON - THU9:00 am - 4:00 pm

FRI - SATBy appointments only

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