Investing in a professional mouthguard is a good idea if you or your child plays sports. During a contact sport, you could sustain an injury to your teeth from a direct hit. Most dentists recommend mouthguards for other non-contact sports that could involve falling. These sports include gymnastics and skateboarding. Mouthguards can also protect the soft tissue inside of and surrounding your mouth.
What is an Athletic Mouthguard?
Similar to a night guard, a sports guard is also a protective device for your teeth but is designed to wear while participating in contact sports that can damage your teeth.
You may have heard of different types of mouthguards. For example, you can buy boil and bite or stock mouthguards at sporting stores. However, Dr. Campbell does not recommend these mouthguards because they do not fit perfectly to your gum line and can cause irritation. The best type of athletic mouthguard for you or your child is a custom-made mouthguard from Campbell Dental Arts in Escondido, CA. These mouthguards are customized for your mouth to provide the best protection and fit.
How to get Athletic Mouthguards in Escondido, CA
If you live in or around Escondido, CA, and are looking for an athletic mouthguard, look no further than Campbell Dental Arts. In our office, Dr. Campbell will sit down for a consultation with you to examine your teeth and discuss your needs. Next, Dr. Campbell will take an impression of your teeth. We use this impression to design the custom-fit mouthguard. Once the mouthguard is made, Dr. Campbell will invite you back for another appointment. You will try on the mouthguard during this appointment, and Dr. Campbell will make adjustments if necessary.
Dr. Campbell recommends that his patients wear their mouthguards every time they play their sport. Wearing it is essential to protect the teeth and gums. Mouthguards are typically only worn on the top teeth unless you have braces or a dental bridge. In those cases, Dr. Campbell may recommend a mouthguard for each set of teeth. It would be best if you replaced athletic mouthguards after each sports season. If you play more than one sport, you should get a new mouthguard for each sports season. It can become weaker and less effective if you do not replace the mouthguard.
The Risk of Not Wearing an Athletic Mouthguard
If you or your child does not wear an athletic mouthguard while playing sports, you may experience damage to your teeth or soft tissues. For example, if you are in a sports accident, you could experience broken teeth, cuts on your cheeks or lips, and jaw problems without an athletic mouthguard. Wearing a mouthguard during sports can also reduce your concussion risk.
Are Night Guards and Athletic Mouthguards Interchangeable?
No, wearing an athletic mouthguard to bed is not recommended or vice versa. There are a few critical differences between night guards and athletic mouthguards. First, athletic mouthguards are bulkier than nightguards. Many patients find it uncomfortable to wear athletic mouthguards at night because they are more extensive. Similarly, night guards are slimmer and made to prevent your teeth from grinding together while you sleep. The thinner material of the night guard does not provide significant protection against sports injuries. If you grind your teeth at night or you have jaw pain when you wake up, consider a consultation for a night guard in addition to your athletic mouthguard.
As with most dental concerns, seeking preventative care is better than dealing with a dental emergency or trauma. If you’re experiencing teeth grinding or clenching symptoms or have someone in your family who needs a custom sports Athletic Mouthguards in Escondido, CA for their upcoming sports season, please get in touch with our office for a consultation visit. You and your smile are worth it.
