What Type of Mouthguard is Right for Me?

A mouthguard can come in handy for many reasons. Whether you or your child is in a competitive sport or you have been told you grind your teeth, a mouthguard could be the answer you have been looking for. There are so many different types out there, it can be hard to know which one is for you. With different looks to them and different prices, it can be confusing. Luckily, we are here to narrow it down for you, so you feel less confused. Keep reading as the experts at dentists in Pasadena TX share with you what type of mouthguard is right from you.

Not only is a mouthguard there to protect your teeth, but it will assist in protecting your cheeks, lips, and even tongue. When you are looking for a mouthguard try and keep a couple things in mind. Firstly, it does not limit your breathing. This is especially true if you need the mouthguard for sports. You can't have it end up limiting your breathing or that will affect your performance in a bad way. Secondly, ensure it stays in the same place when you are moving around. If it moves around, it may end up moving out of place which will still result in an injury. Ensure it always stays in the same place. Third, you will be less luckily to wear it if it is not comfortable. Although it may not be the most comfortable thing in the world, especially when you first start wearing it, it's a good idea to purchase a mouthguard that fits and is comfortable. Finally, you want to make sure to be cleaning it on a regular basis. Because of this, ensure you can clean it easily.

Here is a list of the different types of mouthguards that you can invest in.

Stock mouthguard

The first type is the most common. These are stock mouthguards. They are also the least expensive option. These come ready to use and can be purchased at most sporting good stores. There are a couple negatives about these though. Since they come ready to use, they cannot adjust to your specific teeth and mouth. They are also bulky and do not allow you to breathe as well. Lastly, there is not as much protection as a made for your mouthguard. With that said, this option is affordable and still does a great job.

If you feel a mouthguard would be a good solution for your issues or if you are about to join a sports league, contact us today. We will be sure to fit the guard perfectly to your teeth, so you come out of each game as safe as possible. We look forward to your phone call.

Boil and bite mouthguard

Again, these can be purchased at most sporting good stores. These will fit better than a stock mouthguard as they can most to your specific mouth. The goal is to boil them in hot water, so they become soft. You then place your mouth into it to shape it properly, so it fits you in the future.

Custom-fit mouthguard

A professionally designed and created mouthguard can be created for you at the dentist. This is called a custom-fit mouthguard. It is designed specifically for you from what your dentist believes will help create the best mouthguard possible. The dentist starts by making an impression of your teeth. The mouthguard is then molded overtop with a specific material. Since there are additional steps, this mouthguard is the most expensive option. With that said, it is comfortable for you to wear and will provide the most protection. These mouthguards typically take one week to complete. These also let people adjust them slightly even after they are already created. This ensures people are happy with the results and that fits perfectly.

All three of these options are good. The second two; boil and bit mouthguards and custom-fit mouthguards are the best as they are designed to fit correctly to your specific teeth. If you or your child is playing sports that are in any way physical, we recommend wearing a mouthguard. It's also a great idea for children to start wearing one young so they get used to putting it on on a regular basis.

There are more mouthguards too. These are bite splints, night guards, bite planes, and more. These are to be worn in the evening to help people not grind their teeth. These were not listed in the traditional list of three because they are mouthpiece instead of the mouthguard. These too can be custom-fit to both the upper and lower set of teeth. If you experience TMJ or a headache, you may be grinding your teeth without knowing it and a mouthpiece or mouthguard may be for you.

Mouthguards can protect against minor and serious injuries. It helps to keep oral cavities away and helps to protect against jaw issues. Wearing a mouthguard is a great idea for people of all ages as well as all activities.

There are a couple tips to remember. Always make sure to brush and floss your teeth prior to using the mouthguard, do not chew the mouthguard or this will change the shape of it. When cleaning the mouthguard, always use cold water instead of warm. Finally, always store the mouthguard in its storage box so avoid germs or misplacing it.

Although there are many different types of mouthguards available, consult with your dentist to find out what the best option is for you. Depending on the activity and the severity of how much you need it will depend on which option they recommend for you and why. For more questions about mouthguards or to get fitted for one, contact us today.