If you or your child play contact sports, you need to wear a sports mouthguard. Dr. Glen Wainwright creates custom sports mouthguards in Austin, Texas. The dental professionals at Austin Dental Care help patients protect their teeth from injury and prevent the need for restorative dental work in the future.
Mouthguards are a general dental treatment that protects teeth from chipping or getting knocked out during sports. They also offer better protection by fitting snugly enough to prevent any teeth from coming in contact with the athlete’s lower lip or chin. Learn about all of the benefits of a custom mouthguard below.
Benefits of Custom Sports Mouthguards
Custom mouthguards are a much better choice versus the kind you can get over the counter. Store-bought mouthguards, often called boil and bite mouthguards, are one size fits all. While this is convenient, it means that they are not always a good fit. Everyone’s mouth is different, and ill-fitting mouthguards can cause more harm than good.
If your mouthguard doesn’t fit properly, you have to continuously clench your jaw to make sure it stays in. This causes stress throughout your jaw and neck. Too much of this can be a factor in developing TMJ disorders. And if you’re constantly focusing on trying to keep your mouthguard in-place, your head may not fully be in the game that you’re playing. You don’t want to distract yourself from the gameplay.
A custom mouthguard makes it easier to communicate with your team and take quick water breaks. You’re able to speak clearly using a fitted mouthguard and you don’t have to worry about it falling out. You’re also able to take a drink of water when you have the mouthguard in place.
Receiving a mouthguard that fits comfortably provides multiple benefits. Mouthguards:
- Protect the lower jaw from trauma
- Reduce stress on the neck
- Minimize the risk of bruising and injury to the soft tissues in the mouth
- Reduce the chance of contact sports-related concussions
- Help minimize the risk of chipped and damaged teeth
- Reduce the risk of knocked out teeth
- Allow the wearer to speak clearly
Call Austin Dental Care at 512-518-6392 if you play contact sports and require a mouthguard. Dr. Wainwright creates custom mouthguards that fit the exact requirements of an athlete’s teeth, jaw, and tongue.
Custom Mouthguards in Austin, TX
We customize our mouthguards to fit each individual’s teeth and bite. A custom mouthguard consists of soft, thin material that a dentist or dental lab technician molds to the teeth.
The process for getting a custom mouthguard at the dentist consists of the following steps:
Step 1: Prepare for your treatment by reviewing your medical history with your dentist. Your initial visit will consist of a dental exam and oral health history review. During this phase, you can be open with your dentist, ask questions, and voice concerns.
Step 2: Dr. Wainwright will take a dental impression of your teeth. Then he will send the impression to a dental lab technician who will use it to create a mold. The technician will make sure that your new oral device will fit exactly to your teeth.
Step 3: The technician will send the mold back and also the new mouthguard. Once we receive the final product, you will return to Dr. Wainwright for a final fitting. He will inspect it, make adjustments if necessary, and give you the final product. He will make sure the mouthguard is comfortable and easy to use before you leave our office.
Mouthguard Maintenance
You should regularly clean your mouthguard using cool water and mouthwash or soap to make sure bacteria do not multiply. Cool water works well, as hot water can warp the plastic. Store your mouthguard in a ventilated container so it can dry between uses.
Although they can last three to five years, you should replace mouthguards each year to make sure they fit properly each sports season. This is especially true for children that are still growing. A general breakdown from repeated use may alter the fit of the mouthguard. Your mouthguard should fit securely to your teeth without the need to bite or clench the mouthguard.
Your mouthguard can fall out if it does not fit properly, so it’s important to make sure that it fits correctly.
Mouthguard FAQs
Can I use a custom sports mouthguard for teeth grinding issues?
No. Do not use your custom mouthguard for anything other than wearing while playing contact sports. You can incur damage to your mouthguard if you use it at night to prevent teeth grinding damage. Custom sports mouthguards will not withstand teeth grinding. Improper use of a sports mouthguard can significantly reduce its lifespan and effectiveness.
Can I use my sports mouthguard for sleep apnea?
No. Your sports mouthguard can not realign your jaw while you sleep. A sports mouthguard adds no benefit to sleep apnea treatment. You will need a custom oral appliance in order to alleviate your sleep apnea symptoms.
How do I clean my custom sports mouthguard?
Cleaning your sports mouthguard is quick and easy. Rinse your mouthguard using cold water before use. After use, rinse using cold water and hand soap or dish soap and store it in a protective case. Never use hot water or boil your mouthguard, as this can warp it and render it ineffective.
Request a Dental Consultation with our Dentist in Austin, TX
Dr. Wainwright is a dentist in Austin, Texas that provides effective dental treatments for athletes. Call our office at 512-518-6392. You may also schedule an appointment online using our form. Dr. Wainwright serves patients in West Lake Hills, West Austin, Lost Creek, Barton Creek, and all of Travis County, Texas.