Sports-related dental injuries are one of the most common causes of dental emergencies. No matter how careful you may be when playing a sport, accidents are always a risk. Many people choose to use store-bought mouthguards, but these are often large and clunky and do not offer the level of protection that professional mouthguards do.
At Kevin Spees Dentistry, we are committed to doing everything possible to protect you and your family's teeth from any type of damage – including unexpected sports injuries!
What are the benefits of custom mouthguards?
There are three types of mouthguards: pre-made mouthguards, boil-and-bite mouthguards, and custom-made mouthguards.
Pre-made guards are typically one-size-fits-all. This means they are usually either too big or too small and do not offer the same level of protection as a custom guard. Besides, these are often big and bulky – making it more difficult to breathe correctly while playing sports.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are a little bit better than premade ones, but they still come with a host of problems. For example, they are also large and bulky – which can make it difficult to speak and breathe. If worn over braces, they could cause permanent damage.
Custom-made mouthguards are thinner and allow you to breathe and speak comfortably. In fact, they often correct your jaw positioning to enable you to take in even more oxygen. Because they are made to fit around your specific bite, they provide much more protection than their competition.
How do I care for my mouthguard?
After every use, remove your mouthguard and clean it with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Always store it in its protective casing and do not leave it in the sun or hot water – as this can distort it. Never chew on your mouthguard. For the best protection, replace your mouthguard at the beginning of each new sports season.
To learn more about custom mouthguards, contact one of our two locations. Our Zionsville location can be reached at 317-873-2206, and our Lebanon office can be reached at 765-482-6672. We would be happy to answer any questions!
