How to Properly Fit and Wear a Mouthguard

Jul 01, 2023

Mouthguards are protective devices designed to cover and cushion your teeth, gums, and jaw. They are primarily used in contact sports, such as football, hockey, and boxing, to reduce the risk of dental and facial injuries.

Mouthguards can be custom-made by a dentist to fit your teeth and provide the highest level of protection, or they can be purchased at sporting goods stores or online. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are a popular option for those who want a better fit than what is available with standard over-the-counter mouthguards.

The primary purpose of a mouthguard in SW Calgary is to protect your teeth and jaw from damage during sports activities. Wearing a mouthguard act as a shock absorber, helping to evenly distribute the force of an impact and reducing the likelihood of dental fractures, chipped or broken teeth, and jaw injuries. Additionally, mouthguards can help prevent cuts to the inside of your mouth and damage to your lips and tongue.

While mouthguards are most commonly associated with sports, they can also prevent tooth damage caused by bruxism. Mouthguards can also manage snoring and sleep apnea by helping keep your airway open and reducing the risk of obstruction.

Choosing a mouthguard that fits properly is vital to provide adequate protection.

A poorly fitting mouthguard can lead to discomfort, difficulty speaking and breathing, and an increased risk of injury to the teeth and gums. A dentist in SW Calgary can help you select the right mouthguard for your needs and ensure that it fits properly.

How do Mouthguards Work?

Mouthguards protect the teeth from damage during high-impact sports or from grinding or clenching the teeth during sleep. They are commonly used in contact sports like football, basketball, and boxing, where the risk of injury to the mouth and teeth is high.

Mouthguards work by absorbing and redistributing the forces generated by an impact on the mouth. When a blow to the face occurs, the mouthguard acts as a cushion, spreading the force over a larger area and reducing the pressure on any particular tooth. This helps to minimize the risk of dental injury.

How to Wear Mouthguards

How you wear these mouth protectors will determine their effectiveness.

Clean your mouthguard. Before using your mouthguard, clean it with cold or lukewarm water.
Position the mouthguard correctly. Place the mouthguard in your mouth and align it with your teeth. Make sure it covers your upper teeth completely and fits snugly.
Bite down on the mouthguard gently to ensure that it fits properly. Use your tongue to press the mouthguard to ensure it is properly positioned.
If your mouthguard feels loose or uncomfortable, you may need to remold it or get a different size.

How To Use Mouthguards

Mouthguards are essential safety gear that protects your teeth, gums, lips, and jaws during physical activities such as contact sports, weightlifting, or martial arts.

Choose the right mouthguard. Select a mouthguard that fits your mouth properly and provides adequate protection. Different types of mouthguards are available, such as stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-fitted.
Mouthguards should be worn during contact and in non-contact sports such as gymnastics and skating.
Mouthguards should fit properly to provide the best protection. Custom-fit mouthguards can be obtained from a dentist, while boil-and-bite mouthguards can be purchased at sporting goods stores.
Clean your mouthguards regularly with a toothbrush and toothpaste or with mouthwash. Also, store them in a case to prevent damage.
Replace worn-out or damaged mouthguards to ensure proper protection. Replacing them every season for sports and every 6-12 months for nighttime use is ideal.

Cleaning your mouthguard is important to proper oral hygiene and can help prolong its lifespan. Rinse your mouthguard with cool water after each use, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub away any debris gently. You can also soak your mouthguard in an antibacterial solution or mouthwash for added cleanliness.

Conclusion

It is important to properly fit a mouthguard to protect your teeth and prevent injuries. While different types of mouthguards are available, choosing one that fits securely is recommended. Visit My Dental Clinic for more information about mouthguards.