Athletic Mouthguards

At Southwest Dentistry, we understand the importance of protecting your teeth, gums, and jaws during sports activities. Athletic mouthguards are essential oral appliances that provide a barrier between your teeth and potential impacts. They play a crucial role in preventing dental injuries and maintaining your oral health.

Types of Athletic Mouthguards

We offer a variety of athletic mouthguards to cater to your specific needs:

• Custom-Made Mouthguards: These mouthguards are individually designed and fabricated to fit your unique dental structure. They offer superior protection, comfort, and durability compared to over-the-counter options.
• Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Boil-and-bite mouthguards are readily available at sporting goods stores. They are softened in hot water and then molded to your teeth for a semi-custom fit.
• Stock Mouthguards: Stock mouthguards come pre-formed and ready to wear. While they are convenient, they provide a less precise fit and may be less comfortable compared to custom-made options.

Benefits of Custom-Made Athletic Mouthguards

Choosing a custom-made athletic mouthguard offers numerous advantages:

• Enhanced Protection and Fit: Custom-made mouthguards are designed to precisely fit your teeth, offering optimal protection and minimizing the risk of injury.
• Reduction of Dental Injuries: They provide a cushioning effect that helps absorb and distribute impact forces, reducing the risk of broken teeth, jaw fractures, and other dental traumas.
• Prevention of Soft Tissue Injuries: Custom-made mouthguards also protect the soft tissues of your mouth, such as the lips and cheeks, reducing the likelihood of cuts, bruises, and other injuries.
• Improved Performance and Comfort: Properly fitted mouthguards can enhance your overall performance by allowing clear speech and breathing, and they offer a comfortable fit for extended wear during sports activities.

The Process of Getting a Custom-Made Athletic Mouthguard

When you visit Southwest Dentistry for a custom-made athletic mouthguard, our experienced dental professionals will guide you through the process:

• Initial Dental Examination and Impressions: We will perform a thorough dental examination and take precise impressions of your teeth to ensure an accurate fit for your mouthguard.
• Laboratory Fabrication Process: The impressions will be sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians will fabricate your custom-made mouthguard using high-quality materials.
• Fitting and Adjustments: Once your mouthguard is ready, we will ensure it fits comfortably and securely. Any necessary adjustments will be made to guarantee maximum protection and a proper fit.

Proper Care and Maintenance of Athletic Mouthguards

To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your athletic mouthguard, it is important to follow proper care and maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning and Storing: Rinse your mouthguard with cool water after each use. Brush it with a toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste. Store it in a ventilated container to prevent bacterial growth.
• Replacement Timelines: Over time, mouthguards can wear out or become less effective. We will provide you with recommendations on when to replace your mouthguard to maintain optimal protection.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: It is essential to schedule regular dental check-ups. During these visits, we will assess the condition and fit of your mouthguard to ensure it continues to provide adequate protection.

Athlete-Specific Considerations

Different sports may have varying levels of impact and risks. We will discuss specific sports that benefit from mouthguard use and provide appropriate recommendations based on your athletic activities.

We also understand that some athletes may have unique considerations, such as braces or orthodontic appliances. Our dental team will guide you on the best mouthguard options to accommodate these circumstances.

Additionally, we offer customization options, including team colors or logos for team sports, to help you showcase your team spirit while protecting your oral health.

Mouthguard Safety and Guidelines

Your safety is our priority. We recommend using mouthguards certified by appropriate dental or sports organizations to ensure their quality and effectiveness.

We will provide you with safety guidelines for wearing mouthguards during sports activities, including proper insertion, removal, and care techniques. It is important to be aware of potential risks and limitations associated with mouthguard use.

Mouthguards for Different Age Groups

At Southwest Dentistry, we cater to athletes of all ages:

• Benefits for Children and Teenagers: Mouthguards are especially crucial for young athletes as their developing teeth are more susceptible to injury. We will discuss the benefits and recommend suitable mouthguard options for children and teenagers.
• Considerations for Adult Athletes: Adult athletes in various sports disciplines can also benefit from the protection provided by mouthguards. We will evaluate your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate mouthguard for your dental condition and sports activities.

Schedule Your Appointment Today!

At Southwest Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of athletic mouthguards in protecting your oral health during sports activities. With custom-made mouthguards, we provide enhanced protection, reduce the risk of dental injuries, and help improve your overall performance and comfort.

To discuss your athletic mouthguard needs, schedule an appointment at Southwest Dentistry. Our dedicated dental team is committed to providing personalized and professional care for athletes of all ages. Contact us today and take a proactive step towards safeguarding your smile while enjoying your favorite sports!