As a dentist, it’s my job to ensure my patients have healthy teeth and gums. However, over the past two decades I have noticed that an increasing number of patients have worn, chipped, or even missing teeth, which have been due primamily to sports injuries.
One of the most effective ways to prevent this problem is by recommending a custom mouthguard for my patients.
While there are cheaper alternatives available, custom mouthguards offer numerous benefits that make them worth the investment. In this short article, I’ll explore the reasons why custom mouthguards are superior to other options and why they’re a must-have for both children and adults.
1. Custom Mouthguards Offer Superior Protection
When it comes to protecting teeth during physical activities, nothing beats a custom mouthguard. Dental professionals create mouthguards that offer superior protection against impact injuries by making them fit the unique mouth shape of each patient. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards that come in one-size-fits-all designs, custom mouthguards are specifically designed to fit the patient’s mouth. This is especially important for patients who play contact sports such as football, hockey, or basketball, where the risk of dental injuries is high. Dental professionals design mouthguards to absorb the impact of a blow, providing protection to not only teeth but also gums, lips, and other soft tissues in the mouth.
2. Custom Mouthguards Offer Better Comfort
One of the most common complaints patients have about over-the-counter mouthguards is that they’re uncomfortable to wear. They’re often bulky and don’t fit properly, causing discomfort, difficulty breathing, and even gagging. In contrast, custom mouthguards are designed to fit perfectly in the mouth, providing maximum comfort and allowing patients to breathe and speak normally. The material used to make our mouthguards is also softer and more pliable than that used in over-the-counter alternatives, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
3. They Offer Far Better Durability
Over-the-counter mouthguards are often made from low-quality materials that don’t hold up well over time. They can become brittle or deformed after only a few uses, reducing their effectiveness and increasing the risk of dental injuries. Dental professionals create mouthguards from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand daily wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, these mouthguards can last for several years, making them a valuable investment for patients who prioritize protecting their teeth.
4. Custom Mouthguards Can Help with Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a common condition that affects many people, both children, and adults. It can cause significant damage to teeth, leading to tooth wear, chipping, and even tooth loss. While over-the-counter mouthguards can help with teeth grinding, they’re often not effective enough to prevent further damage. Custom mouthguards, however, are designed to fit perfectly in the mouth, providing maximum protection against teeth grinding. They can also be customized with extra padding or other features to provide even greater protection.
5. They Can Even Improve Athletic Performance
Custom mouthguards not only protect teeth but also improve athletic performance. They can improve breathing and reduce fatigue during physical activity, which can help athletes perform better. They can also improve posture and balance, which can reduce the risk of injuries and improve overall performance.
6. Custom Mouthguards Offer Better Oral Health
Custom mouthguards are designed to fit perfectly in the mouth, reducing the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems. They can also be customized to fit around braces or other orthodontic appliances, providing extra protection and reducing the risk of damage. Custom mouthguards are also easy to clean and maintain, helping patients maintain good oral hygiene and preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria.
7. Custom Mouthguards Offer Better Value for Money
While custom mouthguards may be more expensive than over-the-counter alternatives, they offer better value for money in the long run. Our mouthguards are made to last for several years with proper care, so patients won’t have to replace them as often as cheaper alternatives. They also offer better protection against dental injuries, reducing the risk of costly dental treatments and restorative procedures. Additionally, many dental insurance plans cover the cost of these mouthguards, making them a more affordable option for patients.
8. Custom Mouthguards Offer Peace of Mind
For patients who engage in physical activities or suffer from bruxism, wearing a custom mouthguard can offer peace of mind. They can feel confident knowing that their teeth, gums, and soft tissues are protected against impact injuries and teeth grinding. This can be especially important for children, who may be more susceptible to dental injuries due to their active lifestyles.
In conclusion, custom mouthguards offer numerous benefits over cheaper alternatives and are a must-have for both children and adults. They offer superior protection against dental injuries, better comfort and durability, and can even improve athletic performance and oral health. While they may be more expensive than over-the-counter alternatives, they offer better value for money in the long run. Plus, they can provide patients with peace of mind. As a dentist, it’s important to educate your patients about the benefits of mouthguards. I always recommend them as a preventative measure to protect patient’s oral health.
