Sports Guard Salem, OR Dental injuries in sports can result in knocked out teeth, chips, and fractures. These injuries come with significant pain, and the need for restorative dental procedures. Mouthguards are a critical protective barrier that absorb and distribute the forces of impact that could cause severe oral trauma. Some athletes view mouthguards as optional because they hinder breathing or are uncomfortable. However, custom mouthguards are perfectly fitted, and custom designed to fit each athlete with their performance and protection in mind.The proven ability of sports mouthguards to prevent serious injuries makes them an indispensable piece of protective equipment for all athletics, especially contact sports.Types of Athletic MouthguardsStock mouthguards come ready to wear, but they offer minimal protection because of their one-size-fits-all approach. Each individual person's teeth are very unique, and require custom protection. Boil and bite mouthguards provide better protection through fitting at home. However, custom made mouthguards acquired from Smith and Emerick Family Dental are created using your dental impressions for a perfect fit. They offer superior protection, breathing, and comfort. Benefits and ProtectionMouthguards absorb some of the forces of impact endured in sports. This helps to prevent tooth fractures, knocked out teeth (avulsions), and jaw injuries. Custom mouthguards also protect soft tissues from lacerations and reduce concussion risk by cushioning blows to the jaw. A 2019 systematic review concluded that, when compared with mouthguard users, individuals who did not use mouthguards had more than twice the increased risk of orofacial injury. Which Sports Require Mouthguards?Many contact sports require the use of mouthguards. Mouthguards are crucial in sports such as boxing, football, ice hockey, and lacrosse. Organizations like the American Dental Association recommend mouthguards for non contact sports as well, such as basketball, soccer, and skateboarding. School athletic programs increasingly require mouthguard use across multiple sports. Proper Care and MaintenanceAthletes should rinse mouthguards before and after use. Regular cleaning with mild soap, and thorough drying prevents bacterial growth. Store mouthguards in ventilated containers and replace them when they show any signs of wear. Athletes typically replace inexpensive mouthguards from retail stores every season, and replace custom guards every few years. Special ConsiderationsAthletes with braces need specially designed mouthguards to accommodate their orthodontic appliance. These guards require extra material to prevent bracket damage, and provide added dental protection. We advise athletes with dental work such as bridges or implants to consult our team for customized mouthguards to fully protect their restorations. Impact on PerformanceModern custom mouthguards balance protection with comfort and function. Proper fitting ensures clear speech and unrestricted breathing during play. Many athletes report improved performance through better jaw alignment, and improved breathing. Developing TechnologyEmerging technologies include smart mouthguards with impact sensors for concussion monitoring, and antimicrobial materials for enhanced hygiene. Intelligent mouthguards have been adopted by World Rugby for its professional athletes. In addition, custom fitting processes are becoming streamlined. New mouthguard technology could potentially reduce costs and maintain the same quality of protection. Mouthguards, and especially, custom mouthguards, have been proven to be effective for the prevention of serious oral injuries. This makes them an essential piece of athletic equipment for all sports. Proper selection, fitting, and maintenance ensure optimal protection for athletes across all competition levels. Schedule Your Appointment today!If you are interested in learning more about our services, please call (971) 208-6023, and schedule your appointment today! |
Contact Information876 Welcome Way SE Salem, OR 97302-4092 Office HoursMonday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday: 7:00am - 5:00pm Wednesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm Thursday: 7:00am - 5:00pm Friday: 8:00am - 5:00pm (971) 208-6023 info@ksfamilydentist.com Follow Us |
