At Kennebec Dental Excellence of Waterville, Maine, our doctors and team may recommend the benefits of custom sports mouthguards.
Athletic mouthguards are a great way to prevent sports injuries that can cause dental trauma. Custom sports mouthguards are made from a rubber-like material and fit over teeth, gums, and lips to protect them from contact with other hard surfaces or objects.
Athletes of all ages can benefit from wearing sports mouthguards. Our doctors will discuss with you the following advantages of using customized sports guards made at our dental practice:
During physical activities that involve running, jumping, hitting, or any type of movement where the face could be vulnerable to impact, using a custom-fit sports mouthguard is essential in protecting your smile.
Mouthguards help cushion blows that could otherwise cause chips, cracks, or broken teeth.
Wearing a sports mouthguard will also protect against lacerations inside the mouth caused by sharp tooth edges.
Custom-fitted athletic mouthguards offer superior protection compared to those found at sporting goods stores because they are designed specifically for an individual and the contours of their teeth and gums. This ensures proper fit and function.
What Sports May Require A Mouthguard?
There are several high-contact, high-impact sports that may require you to wear a mouthguard. Sports such as football, hockey, soccer, lacrosse, and rugby are examples of activities where a custom-fit mouthguard should be worn.
Shielding Your Smile & Beyond
While preventing chipped or knocked-out teeth is the primary goal, a well-fitted appliance offers comprehensive protection for your entire oral cavity. A custom design acts as a shock absorber, helping to stabilize your jaw during an unexpected collision. This structural support minimizes the risk of severe temporomandibular joint (TMJ) trauma. Furthermore, if you are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, protecting your brackets and wires from impact is absolutely vital. We can design specialized athletic mouthguards that accommodate shifting teeth without compromising your safety. During your initial fitting appointment, we may also review your recent digital x-rays to ensure the underlying bone structure is healthy and capable of withstanding the rigors of high-contact activities. By partnering with our dedicated clinical professionals in Winslow, ME, you ensure that your active lifestyle never compromises your long-term dental health.
The Process Of Getting Your Custom Mouthguard
Acquiring a personalized appliance at our clinic is a streamlined, comfortable experience that far exceeds the quality of boiling a generic piece of plastic at home. We begin by taking precise digital or physical impressions of your upper and lower teeth, ensuring every unique contour is accurately captured. These precise models are then used to fabricate your guard in a specialized laboratory, utilizing highly durable, tear-resistant materials that allow you to breathe and speak clearly on the field.
Caring For Your Sports Appliance
To maximize the lifespan and hygiene of your protective gear, it is crucial to establish a simple daily maintenance routine. Because the appliance sits tightly against your enamel while you sweat, it can quickly accumulate harmful bacteria if not properly sanitized. Athletes in Winslow, ME who participate in seasonal sports should follow these easy care guidelines to keep their equipment fresh.
- Rinse the appliance with cool water immediately after every game or practice session.
- Brush the protective gear gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild antibacterial soap.
- Store the mouthpiece in a sturdy, ventilated container to prevent bacterial growth and structural damage.
- Keep the material away from direct sunlight or hot water to avoid permanent warping.
Speak To Our Team Today About Obtaining A Customized Athletic Mouthguard!
At Kennebec Dental Excellence of Waterville, Maine, our doctors and team can create a mouthguard that fits you perfectly. You don’t have to worry about sacrificing comfort or performance when it comes to protecting your smile with the help of a custom-fitted sports mouthguard from Kennebec Dental Excellence! Call us today to learn more about the benefits. We serve patients and families in and around the areas of Waterville, Winslow, Bangor, Augusta, Skowhegan, Gardiner, and Belfast, ME.