Can wearing a mouthguard prevent concussions?

Can wearing a mouthguard prevent concussions?

Properly fitted mouth guards provide better protection and support to sportsmen during contact sports compared to store bought mouthguards.

What is a mouthguard?

Mouthguards are protective devices for the mouth that cover the teeth and gums. Mouthguards reduce the risk of injury to the teeth, arch, gums and lips. Mouthguards can be made from thermoplastic material that is malleable and able to be shaped to individual mouths.

Why is it important to wear a mouthguard in sport?

If a player sustains an injury during sport, the mouth and teeth area are placed under risk of damage. This can result in the teeth shattering or being knocked out as well as damage to the gums or jawbone. It can be more costly to repair the damage done to the teeth than to rather take the necessary steps to prevent the damage in the first place. It takes less time to visit Dentures at Clayfield and get fitted for a custom mouthguard than it will to repair damage due to the absence of one, not to mention the cost of restorative dental treatment.

Should I be wearing a mouthguard?

The Academy of General Dentistry estimates that mouthguards prevent more than 200,000 injuries per year. Any person who is involved in contact sport or high-risk sports should ideally wear a mouthguard to reduce the risk of damage to their teeth. Children should especially be encouraged to wear a mouthguard as their teeth are still in their developmental stages and are more susceptible to damage.

How does someone sustain a concussion in sports?

A fall or collision can cause the brain to hit against the skull and bruise it. Hitting the brain against the skull can also tear blood vessels and injure nerves. Injuries like these can cause a temporary loss of normal brain function- a concussion.

What are the benefits of a custom-made mouthguard?

Custom-made mouthguards are perfectly fitted to the athlete’s mouth, making the mouthguard more comfortable and secure in their mouth. Custom mouthguards are made to fit securely around each tooth, which makes it easier for the person to speak and breathe because it tailored to the individual. Custom- made mouthguards last longer and are less prone to damage by athletes than store-bought ones. When a mouthguard does not fit comfortably in a player’s mouth, because it is not fitted specifically to them, athletes tend to chew on them, slowly reducing the guard’s thickness.

Custom-made mouthguards are generally thicker than store-bought mouthguards. Thicker mouthguards further help absorb shock and limit movement in the jaw caused by a direct hit. The snug fit that a custom-made mouthguard provides prevents a forceful clash of the upper and lower jaws upon impact, this reduces the risk of sustaining neck injuries.

How is a custom mouthguard made?

The team at Dentures at Clayfield will take an impression of your mouth and teeth. This will allow for the mould to be created fitting your mouth exactly. A thermoplastic material, usually EVA is pressed down over the model using a vacuum machine. The mouthguard is then trimmed and polished to allow the guard to adapt perfectly to the gums and teeth.

How do I properly care for my custom-made mouthguard?

Brush your mouthguard with cool water after you use it. Dentures At Clayfield will provide you with the right case to store your mouthguard in, keeping it safe and clean. Try to avoid keeping your mouthguard in hot environments such as in a hot car, the heat could cause the mould to melt slightly and alter its fit. You may also want to bring your mouthguard with you to your regular dental appointments. Your dentist will be able to check the mouthguard’s fit and structure to ensure it is suitable for your mouth.

Considering a custom-fitted mouthguard?

Dentures at Clayfield will be able to create your custom mouthguard for you. You will be able to choose the style of your mouthguard from a broad range of colours available to you, as well as store your guard in the case that they provide you with. Contact Dentures at Clayfield on 0738622256 to request an appointment to mould a custom-fitted mouthguard. Enjoy the comfort a custom-made mouthguard provides when you are enjoying the sport that you love.

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