Getting the Bite on Mouthguards in Carrollton, TX
Athletes understand the importance of wearing knee pads, helmets, and shin guards when out on the court or field – but what about protecting your vulnerable smile? Studies show that nearly 40% of sports-related injuries involve the face, after all. That’s why Dr. Marc Dandois strongly recommends the continual use of a custom mouthguard here in Carrollton, TX.
What’s a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a vital piece of athletic equipment that’s designed to fit over a person’s teeth, essentially “guarding” their dental structure and surrounding face, jaw, tongue, and lips from injuries that could occur because of contact with other players or hard surfaces. Research has even suggested that the use of a mouthguard can reduce the severity of a concussion!
There are multiple types of mouthguards, and we want to help you select the one that best fits you or your family’s needs. They include:
- Ready-Made Mouthguards – These are the types that are typically seen on the shelf at your nearest sporting goods store. They’re inexpensive, but the “one-size-fits-all” nature can feel very uncomfortable in the mouth. Patients will typically find that speaking clearly and even breathing are tricky.
- Mouth-Formed Mouthguards – Patients searching for a more customized fit may find that a mouth-formed mouthguard offers promising results. These appliances provide a more comfortable fit over a patient’s natural smile; there are even thermoplastic models that can be personalized by heating the appliance in water and then biting into it. However, people often don’t enjoy the taste of this mouthguard, and it can still have an unpleasantly bulky feel in the mouth.
- Custom-Made Mouthguards – There is no doubt that a custom-made mouthguard is the right choice for optimal smile protection during athletic events. Dr. Dandois will personally design this model to ensure maximum comfort, flexibility, and stability.
Please keep in mind that patients with braces or removable tooth replacements like dentures may require a special model for their mouthguard. Additionally, patients should take care to rinse their appliance after each use and regularly clean it with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Contact our Carrollton, TX practice today if you’d like to start the process of receiving your very own mouthguard!
