Dental Information:
Mouthguards
Existing programs using custom-fitted mouthguards are likely to prevent more than 200,000 oral injuries this year. Custom-fitted mouthguards are made by your dentist, and provide a better fit – and thus greater protection - than boil-and-bite or other off-the-shelf guards.
Mouthguards protect not only against teeth being knocked out or damaged, but also help cushion against traumatic force that can cause brain and other head injuries. A properly fitted mouthguard should not interfere with either speech or breathing...and it can be a coordinated part of your sports uniform, made in the team colors and featuring the team logo.
Discuss mouthguards with your dentist if you, your spouse, or children are involved in athletic activity. Remember: the cost of a custom mouthguard is far less than for rebuilding or replacing unprotected teeth.
Volunteers of the SDCDS sponsored mouthguards program have provided custom fitted mouthguards, in the SDSU colors of red and black, for the SDSU Aztecs football and basketball teams for several years. Each mouthguard features the Aztecs logo and the player’s name. For more information about mouthguards click here.
If you are interested in having your San Diego/Imperial County area sports team fitted with custom mouthguards, contact us at: (619) 275-0244 or email at: mike@sdcds.org
What is a mouthguard?
A mouthguard is an appliance worn in the mouth which helps prevent injuries to the teeth, lips, cheeks, tongue, and jaw during Sports activities. It should be worn in addition to protective headgear which also protects against injuries to the head and neck.
Why does anyone involved in sports need mouthguards?
According to the American Dental Association, more than 200,000 oral injuries are
prevented annually in this country by sports mouthguards. Perfect for soccer, volleyball, baseball, softball, rollerblading, skateboarding, martial arts, boxing, hockey, kickboxing and mountain biking.
Why custom fabricated sports mouthguards?
Custom-fitted mouth protectors are made by your dentist. They cost more than the other versions, but because they are custom made they offer a better fit than anything you can buy off the shelf. Athletes who have braces or fixed
bridge work especially should consider custom-fitted mouth protectors.Mouth
guards may not be mandatory equipment in all sports, but their worth is indisputable.
What is the procedure for creating a mouthguard?
The procedure for making mouthguards is simple. The dentist takes impressions (molds) of your mouth and has you bite on a piece of wax. Models of your mouth are sent to a lab, and then the mouthguards made. The best type of mouthguard, in my opinion, is composed of layered, heat and pressure
laminated ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA). They come in a variety of different layers, and colors. They are strong, comfortable, and allow for easy speaking and breathing, but do cost more than those that are store-bought.
You should discuss with your dentist if you, your spouse, or children are involved in athletic activity. Ask your dentist if he or she has experience making custom mouthguards, or is a member of the Academy of Sports Dentistry. Remember that the cost of a custom mouthguard is far less than for rebuilding or replacing unprotected teeth.
What to look for in a mouthguard:
A mouthguard should: provide maximum protection from a traumatic force remain in place during sports activity (a well-fitted mouthguard will provide this, but if the mouthguard does not fit properly, it may be too loose and be knocked out easily) not interfere with breathing or speech, be comfortable to wear.
Caring for your mouthguard:
Keep your mouth guard in top shape by rinsing it with water or mouthwash after each use and allowing it to air-dry. With proper care, it should last the length of a season or longer. Store it in a container, so it will not get damaged or lost like any other sports gear, mouthguards can tear or wear out; therefore, replace them after each sports season.