Wearing a mouth guard can protect your mouth, teeth, and jaw from dental injury. It’s an essential piece of protective sports gear that should always be worn, especially in contact sports. A custom-fitted mouth guard offers the best level of protection because it is made to fit the contours of your mouth perfectly. In this article, we will explore the benefits of mouth guards and explain how a mouthguard should fit.
How Do Mouth Guards Work?
Mouth guards form a protective barrier between the two jaws. They absorb the force of impact and distribute it evenly across the surface. Most people only need a mouth guard for the upper teeth however, if you wear orthodontic braces, a mouthguard for your lower teeth can protect you against cuts and tears from your braces.
Mouthguards should be worn all the time: for all training sessions, as well as during competitive games.
How A Mouthguard Should Fit: Important Facts To Know
When mouth guards don’t fit correctly, they do not offer an adequate level of protection. It needs to cover your teeth and gums and be aligned with your bite. This is why a custom-fitted mouth guard is so essential.
Mouthguard Fit Check-List
Use your tongue
If the mouthguard can be moved around with your tongue, it doesn’t fit properly. This is a sign it is too loose or improperly aligned. You shouldn’t have to use your jaw or tongue to keep it in position.
Check your speech and gag reflex
If you can’t speak clearly and comfortably, the guard doesn’t fit well enough. If it causes a gag reflex, it should be replaced.
Check your alignment
Mouth guards should align well with your natural bite. If they don’t feel natural, get a new one made.
How Should A Mouthguard Fit?
Mouthguards should cover your teeth and gums fully. If your gums aren’t covered, your tooth roots are vulnerable to impact.
Mouth guards should feel comfortable to wear.
Not only does it make them less effective, but it’s also a distraction when playing your sport. You should be able to drink without removing it too.
Your mouth guard should allow you to breathe easily and speak clearly. You need plenty of oxygen to play your sport, and your team members need to be able to hear you.
How To Care For Your Mouth Guard?
Inspect it regularly for signs of wear. Any wear and tear will compromise its ability to give you adequate protection. Microcracks will also harbour bacteria.
Make sure you brush your teeth before using it.
Rinse and clean mouth guards after each use to get rid of any bacteria. Allow them to air dry naturally.
Store it in the protective case when it’s not in use and clean the case regularly. Do not store it in direct sunlight or put it in the dishwasher as the heat can damage the material.
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