Are Custom Mouthguards Worth the Investment for Athletes?

If you are an athlete in a contact sport then you likely know how important it is to wear a mouthguard. But do you need to spend the money on a custom mouthguard? The answer is more complicated than a strict yes or no. The truth is that the right guard can save you money in the long run, but not everyone needs a custom option. Read on to find out why it might benefit you then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to make an appointment with a dentist.

Mouthguards are necessary to protect your teeth

First, let us consider what you need a mouthguard for: To protect your teeth. Some sports are more likely to result in tooth injury than others, such as hockey, football, and lacrosse. It is not uncommon for athletes in these fields to have teeth that are broken, cracked, or chipped. In fact, teeth can even be lost.

The advantages of using a custom mouthguard

There are several advantages to using a custom mouthguard versus a general one. First, it is most likely to stay in place and protect the teeth. If you are involved in a particularly violent sport then this can be very important.

Second, a custom mouthguard will work must better without limiting your ability to breathe or speak. For an athlete who only needs a mouthguard for a few minutes a time, a generic one may be fine but if an athlete intends to wear their mouthguard for a long period of time – and wants to be able to breath freely – a custom guard may be in order. Likewise, if an athlete needs to speak as part of their sport, then they will find it easier to do so with a custom mouthguard.

Finally, it is important to note that a custom mouthguard can better protect those who have had past dental work including cosmetic dentistry. If a person has had expensive work done, such as orthodontic work, then it is well worth the investment in a custom mouthguard to protect a previous investment.

Remember that dental mouthguards are about more than just protecting the teeth

When you are considering the options, remember what is really at stake. High-impact sports can be dangerous and the right mouthguard can protect our overall health. They can help reduce the chance of a jaw fracture, concussion, neck injury, and even a cerebral hemorrhage. How? By preventing the lower jaw from jamming into the upper jaw.

At a minimum, you need a mouthguard that fits well and will protect you. Whether that can be covered with an over the counter mouthguard or a custom one is in order will depend on a number of factors. To make an appointment with a dentist who can assess your needs and help you decide what’s right for you, contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161.