Sports Mouthguards

A sports guard is a flexible appliance made out of plastic that is worn in athletic and recreational activities to protect teeth from trauma. Protecting your head, jaw and teeth, even for seemingly non- contact sports, is very important. A mouth guard should be part of the protective gear for any sport where there is a strong chance of contact with other players or hard surfaces. The list would include basketball, soccer, skiing, softball, baseball, wrestling, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, biking and martial arts.

Mouth protectors, which typically cover the upper teeth, can cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the soft tissue of the mouth. Mouth protection is for both kids and adults. Just like a bike helmet, if we get kids used to wearing appropriate protective devices early in their sports participation, we are preventing injuries for now and in years to come.

Types of mouth guards

Type	Description
Custom Made	Lab fabricated from a cast model of your teeth. Requires an in office visit for an impression of your teeth. Offers best fit, comfort, durability and protection. These are best suited for adults and teens whose jaw/mouth shape has stopped changing.
Boil and bite or mouth-formed	Found at most sporting goods stores. Requires softening in warm water and then placing in the mouth and biting down to fit the guard to your mouth. This is a good cost effective option, especially for growing kids whose guards need frequent replacement.
Stock or ready-made	Ready-made, limited sizes, generic fit. Most bulky and uncomfortable offering the least amount of protection. Can inhibit speech and breathing. This type of guard is not considered an acceptable facial protective device by most dental and pediatric groups.