Did you know that approximately 30 million children and teens participate in sports in the US, out of which about 3.5 million get injuries every year? Almost one-third of all injuries incurred in childhood are sports-related injuries.
Facial and dental trauma is common in sports. While all types of sports have a potential for injury, contact sports have a higher occurrence rate of facial and dental injury than non-contact sports. Some sports and recreational activities that can cause injuries are:
- Basketball
- Bicycling
- Football
- In-line and roller skating
- Skateboarding
- Snowboarding and skiing
- Soccer
- Martial arts
- Boxing
Various dental and facial injuries that occur during contact sports are:
- Tooth injuries
- Avulsion
- Fracture of the facial bones
- Concussion injuries
The best way to prevent facial and dental injuries is to wear a sports mouthguard. While stock and boil-and-bite mouthguards are available, personalized mouthguards provide superior protection and comfort.
What are Personalized Mouthguards?
Personalized mouthguards, also known as custom-fitted mouthguards, are dental devices designed specifically for an individual’s mouth. They are typically made by dental professionals using impressions of an athlete’s teeth, ensuring a perfect fit. Unlike generic options, personalized mouthguards provide tailored protection and enhanced performance.
Why Should Athletes and Sports Enthusiats Invest in Personalized Mouthguards?
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Superior Protection Against Injuries
Sports-related dental injuries can range from minor chips to severe tooth fractures and jaw dislocations. A well-fitted personalized mouthguard absorbs and distributes impact forces, reducing the risk of injuries such as:
- Broken or knocked-out teeth
- Soft tissue injuries (cuts on the lips, tongue, or cheeks)
- Jaw fractures and dislocations
- Concussions (by absorbing shock and reducing impact to the head)
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Enhanced Comfort and Fit
Unlike boil-and-bite mouthguards, personalized mouthguards are custom-made using a mold of the athlete’s teeth. They fit snugly and securely without irritating. This ensures that the athlete can breathe, speak, and drink easily during the game without needing constant adjustments. Moreover, they are lightweight and more comfortable.
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Durable
Stock and boil-and-bite mouthguards are often made of lower-quality materials. As a result, they wear out quickly. On the other hand, personalized mouthguards are made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand intense physical activity. Not only do they last longer and provide better long-term protection but also a cost-effective option.
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Reduced Risk of Concussions
While mouthguards are primarily designed to protect teeth and gums, they also play a role in reducing the risk of concussions. A personalized mouthguard provides cushioning to the jaw and head. As a result, they help absorb shock and minimize the force transmitted to the brain, lowering concussion risks during sports.
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Protection for Braces and Dental Work
Athletes who wear braces, retainers, or other dental appliances are at a higher risk of oral injuries. A personalized mouthguard is designed to fit over orthodontic appliances. That is why they provide an added layer of protection. It prevents damage to braces while also safeguarding the soft tissues in the mouth from cuts and abrasions.
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Customized for Specific Needs
Every athlete has unique dental and jaw structures. So, a one-size-fits-all solution may not be effective. Custom mouthguards for sports are designed to accommodate individual needs, such as:
- Adjustments for bite alignment issues
- Special cushioning for athletes with a history of jaw injuries
- Added thickness for high-impact sports
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Compliance with Sports Regulations
Many sports leagues and associations require athletes to wear mouthguards for safety reasons. A custom-fitted mouthguard ensures compliance with these regulations and provides superior protection compared to off-the-shelf options.
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Prevent Costly Dental Repairs
Dental injuries can be expensive to treat. They require expensive dental procedures such as crowns, implants, or even surgery. But investing in a high-quality personalized mouthguard can save you from costly dental repairs and painful procedures in the long run.
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Less Touching, Improved Hygiene
Personalized mouthguards fit securely and reduce the need for constant adjustments with hands. This helps minimize the risk of transferring bacteria and germs. This is beneficial, especially for team sports, where hygiene is crucial in maintaining overall health.
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Safe Storage
Since personalized mouthguards come with a designated case, athletes can store them safely. This aids in preventing contamination and damage when not in use. In addition, proper storage extends the lifespan of the mouthguard and ensures it remains effective in protecting against injuries.
The Bottom Line
Personalized mouthguards are an essential piece of protective gear for athletes, offering superior comfort, durability, and injury prevention compared to standard options. Whether you’re playing contact sports like football and hockey or engaging in recreational activities like skateboarding or bicycling, a custom-fitted mouthguard can significantly reduce the risk of dental and facial injuries.
So, what are you waiting for? Invest in high-quality customized mouthguards and protect your teeth while performing at your best!
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