Sports Mouth Guards in [city], [st]

At [practice_name] in [city], Utah, sports mouth guards are recommended to protect teeth, lips, cheeks, and the jaw during contact and recreational sports. This guide explains what a sports mouth guard is, how a custom mouth guard works, the benefits of wearing one, and what patients in [city], [st] can expect during a visit.

Sports mouth guards explained

A sports mouth guard is a protective oral appliance worn over the teeth to absorb and distribute impact. Common options include stock guards, boil-and-bite guards, and dentist-made custom guards. Custom guards are shaped to your bite for a precise fit, better shock absorption, and improved comfort compared with store-bought versions.

It helps to distinguish a sports mouth guard from a night guard. A night guard is designed to manage teeth grinding during sleep, while a sports mouth guard is built to reduce injury during athletic play. If you are searching for what a sports mouth guard is and how it differs from other appliances, this distinction matters for safety and results.

How a sports mouth guard can help you

• Helps reduce the risk of chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth.
• Shields soft tissues, lowering the chance of lip, cheek, and tongue cuts.
• Distributes impact to limit jaw and temporomandibular joint stress.
• Improves comfort and breathing when fitted correctly.
• Offers options for athletes with braces or dental restorations.

Some research suggests a potential reduction in sports-related concussion risk, but evidence is mixed. The primary, proven benefit is protection of the teeth and soft tissues.

The custom mouth guard process

The process typically begins with an exam and discussion about your sport, position, and any orthodontic appliances. Impressions or a digital scan are taken to capture your bite. A dental lab fabricates the guard from durable, shock-absorbing material. At delivery, fit is checked and adjusted so the guard stays secure without excessive clenching. You will receive instructions on how to clean a sports mouth guard and how to store it safely.

Your experience and care tips

Plan to wear your sports mouth guard anytime practice or games involve contact or fast-moving equipment. If you wear braces, a mouthguard for braces is designed with extra room and smooth surfaces to protect brackets and soft tissues while allowing orthodontic movement.

• Rinse before and after use, and brush the guard gently with a soft toothbrush.
• Wash with cool water and mild soap; avoid hot water that can warp the material.
• Store in a ventilated case and let it dry completely between uses.
• Avoid chewing on the guard, as this weakens protection and shortens lifespan.
• Bring the guard to checkups for fit evaluation and cleaning guidance.

How long do sports mouth guards last? Many athletes replace them each season, sooner if the guard becomes loose, thin, or damaged. Children and teens may need more frequent replacement due to growth or orthodontic changes. Custom vs. boil-and-bite replacement timing can differ because custom materials often maintain their shape longer under normal use.

Step-by-step custom guard guide

1. Consultation: Teeth, gums, and any restorations are assessed for ideal protection.

2. Impressions or scanning: Accurate models capture your bite and arch shape.

3. Fabrication: A lab forms layered, resilient material to your specifications.

4. Fitting: Edges are smoothed and retention is checked for secure comfort.

5. Care review: Cleaning, storage, and replacement signs are discussed.