Mouthguards – Oral Health Foundation

What’s a mouthguard?

A mouthguard is a specifically made, rubber-like cowl which inserts precisely over your enamel and gums, cushioning them and defending them from harm.

When would I would like a mouthguard?

You will need to put on a professionally made mouthguard everytime you play sport that entails bodily contact or transferring objects. This contains: cricket, hockey and soccer – which might trigger damaged and broken enamel; and American soccer, boxing and rugby – which might all trigger damaged or dislocated jaws. A mouthguard will assist shield in opposition to these occurring.

The place can I get one made?

Your dental crew can be completely happy to make you a custom-made mouthguard, which is able to suit your mouth precisely and shield your enamel and gums correctly. Customized-made mouthguards can stop harm to the jaw, neck and even the mind – serving to to stop the concussion and harm brought on by a heavy blow.

How a lot will it value?

Prices can range from dentist to dentist. Ask your dental crew about mouthguards and at all times get an estimate earlier than beginning therapy. When you think about the price of costly dental work and the danger of shedding enamel, it’s a small value to pay for peace of thoughts.

How lengthy do custom-made mouthguards final?

Relying in your age, your mouthguard might have changing pretty usually. In case you are nonetheless rising, new enamel will come by way of and transfer into place. So the mouthguard could turn into too tight or free, and can should be remade to suit the brand new form of your mouth.

Adults could not must have their mouthguards changed fairly so typically. However they’re like every other type of sports activities tools and can endure from put on and tear. It is strongly recommended that you simply take your mouthguard alongside to the dentist once you go in your check-up, so it may be checked.

What about dwelling kits?

Mouthguards are made by taking an correct impression of your mouth and making the mouthguard match your personal enamel. The dentist will word the way in which your jaws chew collectively to ensure the mouthguard meets correctly along with your enamel.

There are cheaper kits accessible. They contain heating the product in sizzling water after which placing it in your mouth till it units. Sadly, these mouthguards can match badly and be uncomfortable to put on. They will fall out and even trigger choking. Additionally the fabric is at its thinnest the place it’s wanted most.

Can I get colored mouthguards?

There are a lot of varieties of mouthguard together with striped, multi-coloured and clear. Many individuals now have colored mouthguards made of their favorite crew’s colors or to match their very own sports activities strip. Your dental crew will be capable to inform you whether or not they can present colored mouthguards.

What do I do if I knock a tooth out?

Firstly, if you’ll find the tooth and it’s clear, put it again into the socket your self. If you cannot put it again, put it straight right into a cup of milk or maintain it in your mouth.