Athletic Mouthguards in Lakeland, Florida
We love sports, and we love staying active. At Crosby Dentistry, we want children and adults to stay healthy and fit and keep their teeth protected. An athletic mouth guard is a perfect way to protect your gums, teeth, and jaw from accidental injury and impact. A custom athletic mouth guard fits seamlessly, allowing for easy breathing as you run and move. Unlike standard over-the-counter options, a custom-fit athletic design from Dr. Crosby won’t slip or fall out, adding increased comfort and protection.
What Is An Athletic Mouth Guard?
An athletic mouth guard is a device that fits comfortably around the teeth and provides cushioning and protection for your teeth, mouth, and gums. Sports are high-energy activities, and the chance for injury is real. Wearing an athletic mouth guard can safeguard your teeth. Compared to other types of mouth guards, an athletic mouth guard is made of extremely thick plastic to add cushioning while still being comfortable.
Why Mouthguards Matter For Oral Health
A mouth guard acts as a protective barrier between your teeth and external impact. During contact sports or collision activities, a mouthpiece can help reduce the risk of chipped teeth, damage to tooth roots, and soft tissue injuries. It may also help lower the risk of concussions by absorbing impact forces.
How Is It Different From Other Mouth Guards?
There are several types of athletic mouth guards available. Often, over-the-counter mouth guards are used for sports because they are affordable and easy to find. However, these varieties are one-size-fits-all and are not the most comfortable devices to wear.
Other options include the boil-and-bite mouth guards. These designs have a slight custom element, creating a pseudo-custom fit once the soft plastic has been allowed to conform to your teeth using hot water.
An athletic mouth guard made at the dentist’s office is customized to fit your mouth and unique tooth shape to sit perfectly around your teeth. Not only will it be easier to breathe with the custom guard in place, but the guard will fit better and won’t slide around inside your mouth. Further, athletic mouth guards are made of extremely thick and durable plastic, so they can absorb impact efficiently.
Types Of Mouthguards Available
There are different types of mouthguards used for protection:
- Stock mouthguard options are pre-made and ready to wear, but may not fit well
- Boil-and-bite mouthguard designs soften in hot water to create a semi-custom fit
- Custom mouthguard options are created by a dentist for a precise fit and maximum protection
Custom-fit mouthguards are often recommended because they provide superior protection and comfort compared to shelf mouthguard options.
How Is A Mouth Guard Made?
It is a straightforward and pain-free process to create a custom athletic mouth guard. First, Dr. Crosby will create an exact mold of your teeth using soft wax to make an impression of your teeth. He’ll then send the mold to a dental lab where a technician will design your athletic mouth guard. Once the guard is completed, the lab sends it back to our office.
Next, your dentist will ensure that the mouth guard fits appropriately, making tiny adjustments so that it doesn’t slip or pinch. These necessary adjustments help create a precise fit for comfort and protection. When everything is complete, you are ready to return to sports activities with your new mouthguard in place.
Do I Need A Mouth Guard For My Sport?
Mouth guards are a definite necessity for certain impact sports that may pose a risk to your teeth. They are most commonly used in sports like hockey, football, soccer, and basketball.
However, many athletes also wear a mouth guard during activities such as boxing, rugby, lacrosse, wrestling, gymnastics, and martial arts. Even in non-contact sports, there is still a risk of accidental collision or falls.
If there is any chance of impact during your sport, wearing a mouth guard is a good preventative measure to protect your teeth and gums.
Benefits Of Custom Athletic Mouthguards
Choosing a custom mouthguard offers several benefits:
- Provides a properly fitted mouthguard for better comfort
- Offers superior protection compared to standard options
- Helps reduce the risk of dental and soft tissue injuries
- Allows easier breathing during sports activities
- Designed for durability and long-term use
Many patients find that a custom-fit mouthguard becomes an essential piece of athletic gear for both performance and protection.
Mouthguards For Braces And Dental Work
Patients with braces or other orthodontic appliances may need a specialized mouth guard. Brackets and wires can increase the risk of injury during sports. A custom mouthguard is designed to protect both the teeth and orthodontic appliances.
This type of protection is especially important for patients with fillings, crowns, or other dental work. A properly fitted mouthguard helps prevent damage and supports long-term oral health.
How Often Do I Need A New Mouth Guard?
Custom mouth guards provide excellent protection for those who are active in sports, and they provide a solution to mouth guards that don’t fit properly. It is a good idea to replace an athletic mouth guard after every season. Because the mouth guard receives bites, chomps, and chews, it can start to degrade and will become less effective over time.
Even though athletic mouth guards are made of thick plastic, they are not invincible. Signs of wear such as cracks, thinning, or changes in fit may indicate that it is time for a new mouthguard. Replacing your guard regularly ensures your teeth, gums, and mouth receive the best care and protection possible.
How To Care For Your Mouthguard
Proper care helps extend the life of your mouth guard and maintain hygiene:
- Rinse the mouthguard after each use
- Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap
- Store it in a ventilated case
- Avoid exposing it to high heat
Taking care of your mouthpiece helps maintain its shape and effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does A Custom Mouthguard Cost?
The cost of a custom mouthguard can vary depending on the type of material used and your specific needs. While over-the-counter options may cost less upfront, custom mouthguards are designed for durability and better protection. Many patients find they are a worthwhile investment for long-term dental safety.
How Should I Clean And Store My Mouthguard?
Proper care is important to keep your mouth guard safe and hygienic. You should rinse it after each use and clean it regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap. Always store your mouthguard in a ventilated case and avoid leaving it in hot environments, as heat can change its shape.
Are Mouthguards Different For Children And Adults?
Yes, children and teens often need mouthguards replaced more frequently because their teeth and jaw are still developing. A properly fitted mouthguard should be updated as the mouth changes to maintain protection. Adults may not need replacements as often, but should still monitor for wear and fit.
Can A Mouthguard Improve Performance In Sports?
A properly fitted mouthguard may help improve comfort and breathing compared to loose-fitting options. Because it stays securely in place, athletes can focus more on their performance. While the main purpose is protection, a better fit and comfort can support overall athletic performance.
What Are Signs That My Mouthguard Is No Longer Effective?
A mouthguard may need to be replaced if it shows signs of wear, such as cracks, thinning, or a loose fit. Changes in your bite or discomfort while wearing it are also signs it may no longer provide proper protection. Regular checks help ensure your mouthguard continues to perform effectively.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you or your child participates in sports and needs reliable protection, our team is here to help. We provide custom mouthguards designed for comfort, durability, and performance.
Contact Crosby Dentistry today at (863) 204-2782 to schedule an appointment and get fitted for a custom mouth guard before your next season begins.