If your child is growing up and getting into contact sports, they must wear a mouthguard to protect their teeth. But not all mouthguards offer the same benefits. Dr. Greg Reece, a dentist in Charlotte, NC, discusses the benefits of custom mouthguards and what he offers at his practice, Dentistry of the Queen City.
Why are Mouthguards Important?
Mouthguards are essential if you’re participating in a contact sport. In football and certain other sports, mouthguards are required equipment. They help protect the teeth and any dental work that’s been previously done. This can help minimize damage and the need for more restorative work down the road. Mouthguards can also help reduce the risk of getting a concussion.
Custom Mouthguards are Essential
In many stores, you’ll be able to find the “boil and bite” mouthguards. These are large and bulky but are supposed to form to your bite. These can be hard to keep in when attempting to play your sport. You also aren’t able to drink or talk when they’re in your mouth. This makes it hard to have a quick water break or to call out to a teammate that you’re open.
In addition, keeping them in requires clenching your jaw. This can lead to tension, headaches, and pain in the jaw and facial muscles. Your child is probably more likely to spit these out and not use a mouthguard because they’re uncomfortable. This means a higher chance of you having to take them for an emergency dentistry procedure.
With a custom mouthguard, you won’t have any of these issues. The custom mouthguard is made from a mold of your teeth. Dr. Reece will make sure that the mouthguard fits comfortably and securely. You should be able to both speak and get a drink with the custom mouthguard and not have to clench your teeth to keep it in. It still provides the protection you need in a much smaller, more comfortable package.
The Custom Mouthguard Process
To start, a mold of your teeth is taken. This is what the lab goes off to make your custom mouthguard. The mouthguard is specifically made to fit your mouth well. Once it returns from the lab, Dr. Reece will do a final fitting to ensure that the mouthguard is up to your standards. After that, you’re all set!
Dr. Reece will also cover the essentials to ensure your mouthguard is properly cared for. You’ll have to keep it clean and free of bacteria. The mouthguard can be washed with cool water and soap or mouthwash. You don’t want to use hot water, as it can warp your mouthguard and may not fit anymore. It must be kept in a ventilated case when you’re not using it.
Mouthguards at Your Charlotte, North Carolina Dentist
Get a mouthguard that’s both comfortable and will last for years with the proper care. Call us today or schedule an appointment online to get started!