How to Choosing the Right Mouthguard – With only 60% of children wearing mouthguards for fall and winter sports, it’s clear that many more need to follow this basic safety and be proactive about preventing dental injuries. For those who don’t know where to start, having so many options to choose from can be stressful when it comes to making a well-informed decision. With that said, here’s what makes a quality mouthguard and the many options there are to consider, so that you can continue to stay active rather than losing a tooth.
Qualities of a good mouthguard
A mouthguard’s sole purpose is to protect you from dental trauma while being active from potential dental injury. In fact, research shows that mouthguard wearers are between 82 and 93% less likely to experience a dentofacial injury, proving just how effective they can be. However, there are many factors to take into consideration in order for a mouthguard to do its job properly.
For example, a good mouthguard should be durable and resilient, meaning it should be able to withstand falls and be able to regain its original shape if twisted or bent. It’s important that your mouthguard not restrict speech or breathing as well, as you’ll need to be able to do both properly no matter what sport you’re playing. Furthermore, a good mouthguard should also be easy to clean in order to keep it as hygienic as possible.
While there are many factors that go into choosing a good mouthguard, getting one that fits properly and is comfortable should be a top priority. A properly fitting mouthguard not only feels more comfortable in the mouth, but can prevent it from falling out. This allows the mouthguard to do the job of protecting your teeth much more efficiently.
Options to consider
When looking for the right mouthguard for you, there are a few options to consider. One option, boil and bite mouthguards (a mouthguard that must be boiled and then bitten to achieve a better fit), can easily be found in most sports supply stores, are readily available, and are also generally inexpensive. These mouthguards can be a great option for those who wear braces, since they can simply be remolded to your teeth’s current position throughout the braces-wearing process. This can easily allow you to keep the same mouthguard instead of having the stress of buying another one each time your teeth shift. However, most boil and bite mouthguards are also known for their design that may restrict speaking when playing a sport, which is why many people may want a more custom fit.
Most other stock mouthguards are also readily available and inexpensive, though unfortunately they’re often limited to a couple of sizes (most likely youth and adult), and are also likely to be found as unacceptable by your dental care provider due to poor protection in comparison to professionally made custom ones. With that said, custom-fit mouthguards made by dental professionals can provide a comfortable, personalized fit that brings the wearer optimal protection. While these mouthguards can be more expensive, your health insurance may be able to cover the costs, making it a great way to go if you have the resources to do so.
Mouthguards are a necessity for those who play high contact sports in order to prevent dental damage. With that said, custom mouthguards are a great way to go when you’re looking for a perfect fit, while other options, such as boil and bite mouthguards work better for those who wear braces since the position of the teeth are constantly changing.
