Stay game-ready with custom sports mouthguards
Our dentists at Summit Dental Group, Drs. Mooney, Studebaker, Ritchie and Richardson, are experts in “oral appliance therapy.” Sports mouthguards are one of these appliances. They protect the appearance and health of athletes’ smiles and are a cost-effective, easy, and long-lasting preventative service available at our office in Boise, Idaho.
Don’t get sidelined
The idea behind all sports guards or mouthguards is much the same; they slip into the mouth and are worn while playing sports and other activities that can lead to blows and injuries to the face, jaws, teeth, and other oral structures. Options largely include:
- Off-the-shelf “boil and bite” or stock mouthguards – These products can be bought at the store or online. They can be worn immediately or softened and shaped in warm water to conform to the mouth. Since these products are mass-produced, they are not customized to the specifications of the wearer. They tend to shift around, which can be particularly annoying. Ill-fitting and uncomfortable, they can even interfere with proper respiration. Notably, even when worn as directed, these guards do not provide the level of protection necessary to prevent the teeth, lips, and other soft and hard tissues from traumatic, painful, and costly damage
- Custom sports guards – There is no substitute for guards made by professionals like our team at Summit Dental Group. These mouthguards are designed to fit one mouth! Since they are not “universal-fit,” they can be worn comfortably and snugly. Patient compliance with wearing them is high, and a precision fit and durable materials also support the ultimate protection. Additionally, researchers have found that well-designed mouthguards can minimize the risk of concussions by softening some of the force that is generated and sustained from contact with the face
Of course, we provide considerable professional guidance in addition to a custom, quality sports mouthguard. This guidance helps to ensure your oral appliance stays in good working order. We also advise on great care to protect these devices from harboring oral bacteria. Summit Dental Group is here for you and your family and wants to keep the fun in your sports of choice!
Call 208-345-8962 with questions or to schedule an appointment at our office in Boise, ID, today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why should athletes wear a custom sport guard?
A custom sport guard protects teeth, gums, and jaw joints from injury during contact sports. It fits better than store-bought options and allows easier breathing and speaking.
Q. Can a sport guard help prevent concussions?
While no mouthguard can fully prevent concussions, a properly fitted one can absorb shock and reduce the force transmitted to the jaw and head.
Q. How do I care for my sport guard after use?
Rinse your mouthguard with cool water after each use, brush it gently, and store it in a ventilated case. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or hot environments.
Q. When should I replace my sport guard?
You should replace your sport guard once it becomes worn, damaged, or no longer fits comfortably. Growing teens may need a new one more often due to dental changes.
Q. Can my dentist make a custom mouthguard?
Yes. Our dentist can take precise impressions of your teeth to create a custom guard that provides maximum protection and comfort.
