Do you or your child play contact sports like lacrosse, football, basketball, or soccer? You need a professional sports mouthguard. At Horizon Family Dental Care, we provide custom sports mouthguards in Baltimore, MD, and the surrounding areas. Mouthguards created by a professional help protect the teeth and soft tissues of the mouth. Athletes need to wear a mouthguard for any sports where there is contact between players. As a general dental treatment, mouthguards prevent future oral health issues from occurring.
What Are The Benefits of Custom Sports Mouthguards?
Compared to store-bought mouthguards, custom sports mouthguards conform to the teeth to protect the smile. Over-the-counter and “boil and bite” mouthguards can feel bulky in the mouth. These types of mouthguards can also slip and fall out during a game. It can be difficult for patients to communicate effectively when they are wearing a bulky mouthguard. Professionally made sports mouthguards make it easy to speak and drink comfortably. They are made of thick and durable plastic that stays in place for effective protection.
Receiving a Custom Sports Mouthguard
We take dental impressions for a mouthguard that provides a custom fit. These impressions are used to create customized sports mouthguards. Patients should clean their mouthguards after each use to stop the spread of harmful bacteria. Wash the mouthguard with warm soap and water. Do not use hot water as this can warp the plastic. Store the sports mouthguard and its ventilated container between each use.
Can Mouthguards Treat Bruxism?
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common symptom of TMJ disorders. TMJ disorders are caused by a dysfunction of the temporomandibular joints which connect the jawbone and skull. We offer nightguards to stop teeth grinding and alleviate jaw pain. Even though nightguards act similarly to sports mouthguards, they are not the same. Do not use sports mouthguards to treat teeth grinding or any other symptoms of TMJ disorders.
Custom Mouthguard FAQs
Custom mouthguards protect your teeth far better than store-bought options. Learn more.
How long does a custom mouthguard last?
With proper care, a custom mouthguard can last several years. However, its lifespan depends on how often it’s used, whether the person grinds their teeth heavily, and whether any dental changes occur. It’s a good idea to bring the mouthguard to dental checkups for inspection.
Will a custom mouthguard affect my speech or breathing?
Because a custom mouthguard is made specifically for your mouth, it generally won’t interfere much with speaking or breathing. Unlike bulky, over-the-counter options, custom guards have a low profile and fit snugly against your teeth. Most people get used to wearing one quickly. Any initial discomfort usually fades within a few days of consistent use.
Will insurance cover a custom mouthguard?
Some dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for custom mouthguards, especially if they’re prescribed for medical issues like teeth grinding or TMJ disorders. Coverage is less likely for sports-related mouthguards unless you have a health savings plan. Always check with your insurance provider.
What should I do if my mouthguard doesn’t fit properly anymore?
If your custom mouthguard starts to feel loose, tight, or uncomfortable, make an appointment with your dentist. Changes in your bite, dental work, or wear and tear can all affect how the guard fits. Continuing to wear a poorly fitting guard can cause irritation or reduced protection. We can adjust it or recommend making a new one.
Can I wear a custom mouthguard with braces?
Yes, custom mouthguards can be made to fit over braces. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard is especially important for orthodontic patients, as braces can increase the risk of mouth injuries during sports. We will design the guard to accommodate the brackets and wires while protecting your teeth and gums. As your teeth shift, the mouthguard may need to be updated periodically.
What sports require or recommend mouthguards?
Sports like football, hockey, lacrosse, wrestling, boxing, and rugby often require mouthguards because of their high risk of contact. However, mouthguards are also recommended for basketball, soccer, mountain biking, skateboarding, and even gymnastics—any activity where falls or collisions can occur. Even in non-contact sports, dental injuries can happen, so it’s better to be safe with proper protection. Custom mouthguards are ideal for athletes in any sport.
Schedule a Dental Consultation Today
Protect your smile with a mouthguard custom-tailored to you. Request a dental appointment with us online. Please let us know if you have questions about mouthguard treatment and we can help.