Who Should Wear a Mouth Guard?
Anyone involved in a sport or physical activity where there is potential contact with another player, equipment, or surfaces should wear a mouth guard. This includes:
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- Gymnastics and cheerleading
Even in non-contact sports, accidental falls or collisions can lead to dental injuries. A properly fitted mouth guard provides peace of mind and protects against these risks.
Types of Mouth Guards
Not all mouth guards offer the same level of protection. There are three main types of mouth guards available:
Stock Mouth Guards (Least Protective)
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- Pre-formed, one-size-fits-all design
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- Available in sporting goods stores
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- Bulky and often uncomfortable
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- Limited protection due to improper fit
Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards (Moderate Protection)
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- Available at drugstores and sporting goods stores
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- Soft material that is boiled and then molded to the teeth
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- Better fit than stock mouth guards but still not fully customized
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- Can be uncomfortable and less durable
Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards (Best Protection & Comfort)
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- Made by your dentist for a perfect, individualized fit
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- Maximum protection for teeth, gums, and jaw
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- Comfortable, allowing for easy breathing and speaking
A custom-fitted mouth guard provides the best defense against sports-related dental injuries and is the recommended choice for serious athletes.
Benefits of Custom Mouth Guards
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- Superior Protection – A custom-fit mouth guard is designed specifically for your mouth structure, teeth alignment, and bite, offering better shock absorption and preventing injuries more effectively than store-bought options.
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- Comfortable Fit – Unlike bulky, over-the-counter options, a custom mouth guard fits snugly without slipping, allowing athletes to breathe, speak, and focus on their game without discomfort.
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- Increased Durability – Custom mouth guards are made from high-quality dental-grade materials, making them more resilient and long-lasting compared to boil-and-bite alternatives.
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- Reduces Risk of Concussions – Studies have shown that properly fitted mouth guards can help absorb impact forces, reducing the risk of concussions caused by blows to the jaw.
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- Protects Dental Work & Orthodontics – For patients with braces, crowns, bridges, or other dental work, a custom-fitted mouth guard provides added protection and ensures that orthodontic treatment remains intact.
How Are Custom Mouth Guards Made?
Getting a custom-fitted mouth guard at Brookside Family Dentistry is a simple and painless process:
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- Dental Impression: We take an exact mold of your teeth and bite to ensure a precise fit.
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- Custom Fabrication: The mouth guard is crafted from thin, high-strength plastic, offering maximum protection without excess bulk.
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- Final Fitting & Adjustments: Once ready, we ensure the mouth guard fits securely and comfortably, making any necessary adjustments.
Our custom mouth guards are designed to fit snugly without restricting breathing or speech, making them ideal for athletes who need to communicate on the field.
Caring for Your Mouth Guard
To ensure your mouth guard stays clean and in good condition:
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- Rinse after each use with water or mouthwash
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- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap
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- Store in a ventilated case to prevent bacterial growth
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- Avoid exposure to heat (hot water, direct sunlight) to prevent warping
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- Replace when worn or damaged (typically every season or once a year)
Proper care helps extend the lifespan of your mouth guard and keeps it free from bacteria buildup.
Get a Custom Mouth Guard in O’Fallon, MO
Protecting your teeth during sports and physical activity is essential. Whether you or your child needs a custom mouth guard for football, basketball, hockey, or another sport, Brookside Family Dentistry provides high-quality, comfortable, and long-lasting solutions.
Don’t risk dental injuries—schedule an appointment today to get fitted for a custom mouth guard!
FAQs
Why would someone need a custom mouthguard?
Custom mouthguards provide superior protection for athletes and can also be used to prevent teeth grinding or jaw clenching during sleep.
How is a custom mouthguard different from store-bought options?
Custom mouthguards are made to fit your exact bite, offering better comfort, protection, breathability, and durability compared to generic boil-and-bite versions.
What sports require a mouthguard?
Sports like football, basketball, soccer, hockey, wrestling, and martial arts all benefit from mouthguards to prevent dental injuries.
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
With proper care, a custom mouthguard can last several seasons. Athletes who are still growing may need more frequent replacements.
Can a mouthguard help with teeth grinding?
Yes. A nightguard is designed specifically to protect the teeth from grinding and clenching, reducing wear, jaw pain, and headaches.
