Frequently Asked Questions
SPORTS MOUTHGUARDS
Brought to you by Dr. Katherine Stredinyn
Studies show that many teeth are
lost annually during sporting activities. An athlete is 60 times
more likely to sustain damage to the teeth when not wearing
a mouthguard. These injuries can occur at any age, and when
one considers the cost of replacing a lost tooth a Mouthguard
can be a great investment.
Many people think that only certain
sports carry a risk, but in reality any activity where contact
can be made or a fall could occur, one can break or lose teeth.
Anyone participating in basketball, baseball, wrestling, soccer,
racquetball, rugby, rollerblading martial arts, as well as skateboarding
and bicycling should wear this protective gear.
A mouthguard can prevent injuries
such as concussions, cerebral hemorrhages, jaw fractures and
neck injuries by helping to avoid the lower jaw from jamming
into the upper jaw.
There are 3 categories of mouthguards
available. I have summarized them below so that
You can compare them. Enjoy your sports and remember to stay
safe!
1) Ready-made
-available in sports store
-inexpensive because there are no impressions needed
-bulky and loose-fitting
-limited comfort, protection and durability due to "one
size fits all"
2) Boil and bite (mouthformed)
-mouthguard is heated in warmed water and formed in your mouth
-fairly inexpensive and also available in sports stores
-not a great fit , but better than above
-may be bulky and interfere with speech/breathing
3) Custom fit
-more expensive than above because impressions are taken at
the dentist
where the mouthguard is made specifically for your teeth
-optimal fit and comfort
-doesn't interfere with speech or breathing
-most durable
