There’s no doubt that Australia is a sporting nation! Four in five Australians believe that outdoor sports are integral to Australian culture. Since most of these sports involve physical contact, having protective measures against injuries is essential. A study has shown that a mouthguard can prevent traumatic facial injuries and concussions.
What are Mouthguards?
Sports mouthguard are protective gear for athletes, which seamlessly fit into the mouth to protect their teeth and gums from severe injuries. Additionally, they offer great support to the jaw and can effectively reduce the risks of a concussion.
The Benefits of Mouthguards
- Safeguards teeth and gums – Mouthguards safeguard teeth and soft tissue surrounding the mouth and jaw. This prevents tooth breakage and lacerations to the lips, gums and soft tissue.
- Shock Absorber– Mouthguards act as shock absorbers. A custom mouthguard stabilises the head and neck and provides a cushion from the direct impact to the face and jaw. This reduces the risk of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concussions.
The Types of Mouthguards
Mouthguards are categorised into two types – each of these differ in composition and quality. It is essential to know yourself on their properties, so you can know which type best suit your needs:
- Over the Counter Mouthguards
Over the counter or off the shelf mouthguards are easily available at any local sports store. Though inexpensive, “their one size fits all” does little to safeguard teeth and gums. Moreover, the bulky nature of these mouthguards makes it uncomfortable to breathe or talk. This is why most dentists don’t recommend these types of mouthguards as a feasible option for mouth protection.
- Custom Mouthguards
Professional dentists at Totally Teeth Endeavour Hills make custom mouthguards. As the dentists take exact teeth impressions and thorough measurements, these mouthguards are comfortable for wearing, talking, and breathing. In addition to this type of mouthguard being expensive compared to over-the-shelf products, they also provide amazing and reliable protection against any injury.
Why Should You Go for Custom-made Sports Mouthguards?
- Enhanced Comfort
Since most mouthguards are uncomfortable to wear, most athletes are never so keen on wearing them. However, a custom-fitted mouthguard has a better comfort level than the readily available over-the-shelf mouthguards, as they are bulky and cumbersome.
- Offers Better Protection Against Injuries
For added protection, custom-fitted mouthguards are a great choice. As they are customised for a particular athlete, they fit seamlessly into the mouth and offer better protection against possible injuries. Moreover, the custom made guards prevent severe lacerations on lips or the soft tissue that connect teeth and gums.
- Ensure Better Performance on the Fields
If athletes are concerned about their performance on the field, it’s important to know that several studies show that a custom guard improves their play. Unlike the over-the-shelf guards, custom mouthpieces fit perfectly and don’t move around in the mouth or obstruct breathing. Since athletes can breathe adequately and their oxygen intake remains constant, they can feel confident in their performance and game.
If you have any questions about custom made sports mouthguards contact Totally Teeth – A Dental Clinic in Endeavour Hills.
