A custom mouthguard can help protect your teeth and braces during sports. At Hebron Family Dental, we can create your custom mouthguard in our Carrollton, TX, dental office. Mouthguards are a general dentistry service because they prevent problems like chipped, cracked, or even knocked-out teeth. A professional mouthguard can also prevent the need for future dental treatments like bonding, crowns, or dental implants. We provide mouthguards for children and adults who play contact sports like lacrosse, soccer, football, and hockey.
Benefits of Custom Sports Mouthguards
Custom sports mouthguards offer several advantages over store-bought versions. Our custom mouthguards provide the following:
- Better Fit: We make custom sports mouthguards from dental impressions. This ensures that the mouthguard fits snugly and stays in place during high-impact activities. A better fit also means it won’t slip or become uncomfortable while you play.
- Superior Protection: Custom mouthguards offer better protection for your teeth, gums, and jaw. They help cushion any blows to the face to reduce the risk of broken teeth, chipped teeth, and soft tissue injuries like cuts on your lips or tongue. A mouthguard can also prevent jaw injuries because it evenly distributes the force of an impact.
- Comfortable to Wear: Custom-made mouthguards are more comfortable than store-bought ones. They won’t cause as much discomfort, soreness, or trouble breathing and talking. This makes it easier to wear them during games and practices.
- Durable: We make custom sports mouthguards from high-quality materials designed to withstand heavy use. This means they last longer and offer consistent protection over time, even if you play contact sports frequently.
- Protection for Braces and Dental Work: You need a sports mouthguard if you have braces, dental implants, or other dental work. The mouthguard can be specially designed to protect your dental work. We ensure the guard fits comfortably.
Store-Bought vs. Custom Sports Mouthguards
Choosing the right mouthguard can make all the difference. A properly fitted mouthguard not only protects your teeth from damage but also gives you peace of mind. With the right mouthguard, you can focus on playing your sport without worrying about getting hurt. It helps cushion your teeth from hits or falls, which lowers the risk of breaking or chipping your teeth and getting cuts inside your mouth.
Two main types of mouthguards include:
Store-Bought Mouthguards
Mass-produced mouthguards are designed to fit as many people as possible. This means they are often bulky and uncomfortable.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are a popular store-bought option. You boil them in water and then bite down to shape them into your teeth. While this offers a better fit than a standard one-size mouthguard, it still doesn’t compare to the precision of a custom-made mouthguard.
Because store-bought mouthguards don’t fit as snugly as custom options, they can slip during play. The materials used in store-bought mouthguards are also generally less durable than those used in custom mouthguards. They may wear out faster, especially if you use them regularly.
Custom-Made Mouthguards
We make custom sports mouthguards for your teeth. Because they provide a personalized fit, they stay in place, offering superior protection.
Custom mouthguards tailored to your mouth are much more comfortable to wear. You won’t have to worry about them feeling bulky or making it difficult to breathe or talk.
You won’t have to worry about your mouthguard feeling uncomfortable or making it difficult to breathe or talk, which can often happen with generic, over-the-counter mouthguards. A custom fit means you can focus on the game without distractions, knowing your mouthguard is secure and comfortable.
Custom mouthguards are made from high-quality materials that last longer, even with frequent use.
How to Get a Custom Sports Mouthguard
You can get a custom sports mouthguard in just two visits. We’re here to help you through every step of the process. Here’s what happens when you get a custom mouthguard in our Carrollton, TX dental office:
Initial Consultation
At your first visit, we’ll discuss your needs and the sports you play. We’ll also discuss how a custom mouthguard can help protect your smile, especially if you play contact sports or have braces or dental work
Impressions
Next, we’ll take an impression of your teeth. This involves creating a mold of your teeth, which will be used to design your mouthguard. The process is quick and painless, usually taking just a few minutes.
After we have your dental impression, we’ll send it to a dental lab where technicians will create your custom mouthguard. The lab will use high-quality materials to ensure that your mouthguard is strong and provides excellent protection.
Fitting Appointment
Once your custom mouthguard is ready, you will return to our office for a fitting. We’ll make sure the mouthguard fits perfectly and feels comfortable. If you need adjustments, we’ll take care of them. We will also provide you with a case to keep your mouthguard when not in use.
How to Care for Your Sports Mouthguard
Taking good care of your custom sports mouthguard ensures it lasts and stays effective. Follow these simple steps to keep your mouthguard in great shape:
Rinse and Clean After Each Use
After every game or practice, rinse your mouthguard with cool water. You can also gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. This helps remove bacteria and keeps your mouthguard fresh and clean. Don’t use hot water because it can change the shape of your mouthguard.
Store It Properly
When not in use, keep your mouthguard in its case. This keeps it dry and helps prevent bacteria from growing. A ventilated case also reduces the chances of mold and unpleasant odors.
Avoid Chewing on It
It can be tempting to chew on your mouthguard during games or practice, but this can damage it. Chewing on your mouthguard can create cracks or wear it down and make it less effective.
Replace When Needed
Custom sports mouthguards are durable, but they don’t last forever. If your mouthguard is worn out, cracked, or doesn’t fit properly, visit our dental office to get a new one. A well-fitted mouthguard will keep your smile safe during sports.
Protect Your Smile
If you or your child play sports, a custom sports mouthguard is one of the best investments you can make in your oral health. Get a custom mouthguard in our Carrollton, TX, dental office today. Call Hebron Family Dental at 972-236-5871. You can also schedule an appointment online.