related: emergencies / emergency faq’s

Mouthguards

A mouthguard is a plastic appliance worn in the mouth during physical activity which helps in preventing injuries to the teeth, tongue, lips, and jaw. Sports related dental injuries are often very traumatic; not only are they painful, but costly as well. Mouthguards offer excellent protection at a relatively small price. No matter which variety you go with, what's important is that it fits and is comfortable.

The Three  Types of Mouthguards

• Stock Mouthguards: These are the least expensive of the group, available at most sport stores. They offer the least protection and often interfere with breathing and speaking. Manufacturers produce these in only a few sizes. Even if you could try them on in the store (which we wouldn't recommend), you probably wouldn't find one that fit. Tooth arrangement and arch size varies too much between people.  Without the recommendation of a qualified dentist, we suggest that you stay away from mouthguards bought at sporting good stores. There’s just too much variability amongst dentitions  for the mass-production of effective mouthguards.

• Mouth-Formed Mouthguards: They're inexpensive and carried by most sport stores. They're basically a piece of plastic which when placed in boiling water is moldable to your teeth. The plastic can be reheated and remolded if not properly made on the first attempt. People usually complain that they're too bulky and difficult to speak with. Though, their fit is much better than the stock mouthguards.

• Custom-Made Mouthguards: Custom-made mouth guards are produced from cast models of your mouth. They offer the highest level of fit and protection. Unlike commercial varieties, they don’t interfere with your speech or breathing. They're designed to cover all of the back  teeth; which has a cushioning effect on blows to the jaw (often preventing concussion). Custom mouthguards are more expensive than their commercial counterparts; however, they more than make up for it in the quality of their protection.

What to Look for in a Mouthguard

• Comfortable
• Easy to clean
• Provides maximum protection against traumatic force
• Remains in place during sports activity (stock trays are notoriously poor-fitting)
• Doesn’t interfere with speech or breathing

Caring for Your Mouthguard

• Keep it in its container
• Rinse it off after each use
• Clean your mouthguard periodically with soap and water

Do's and Don’ts

• If you have a mouthguard, wear it.
• Don't wear removable appliances such as retainers or dentures when playing sports.
• Get your dentist to make you a custom mouthguard if you have any crown or bridgework; protect your investment.

Mouthguard Tips

• Usually, mouthguards should be made for the maxillary (upper) arch. If you have a Class III bite (prognathic bite/ protruding mandible), your mouthguard may have to be made for your lower jaw. See types of occlusion.
• If your child is between the ages of 6 - 12, the mouthguard should be made to allow for the eruption of permanent teeth.
• If you currently wear braces, your mouthguard should be modified by your dentist during its fabrication to allow for additional orthodontic movement.

Note: It is important to note that before beginning any course of treatment you should see your dentist. Please note that without the benefit of a full dental examination, including a review of medical history, dental x-rays, and diagnostic aids, no attempt can be made to provide specific diagnosis or recommended courses of treatment. However, we will be happy to update our site to include topics you feel deserve mention. contact us