In contact sports, dental injuries can be a common risk, and not all mouthguards offer the same level of protection. Which is why everyone from professional athletes to children starting their sporting careers should ensure they’ve got the best possible protection with a custom-made mouthguard.
At Beaches Dental Mona Vale, we’re a proud sponsor of the local Warringah Rats Rugby Union and Narrabeen Sharks rugby League Clubs and have a deep understanding of the importance custom mouthguards play in contact sports. In this article, we’ll discuss custom dental mouthguards in detail.
What are Custom Sports Mouthguards?
Custom sports mouthguards are made using pressure laminated, thermoformed plastic. Unlike over-the-counter options, these mouthguards are created based on precise impressions taken of your mouth, ensuring a perfect fit that offers optimal protection, comfort, and stability during physical activity.
The Importance of Customisation
The main advantage of a custom sports mouthguard lies in its customisation. A mouthguard that fits perfectly is more effective in distributing the force of an impact evenly across the teeth. This ultimately minimises the risk of injuries such as tooth fractures, luxation (tooth displacement), or even avulsions (complete knockouts).
Furthermore, because custom mouthguards are designed to accommodate an individual’s specific dental structure, they interfere less with breathing and speaking, which can improve comfort and performance during sports.
The Process of Getting a Custom Mouthguard
Consultation and Impression
The process begins with a consultation at Beaches Dental Mona Vale. During this initial consultation, our dental professionals will evaluate your dental health and discuss your specific needs based on the sports you play. This step ensures that the mouthguard we make offers the best protection for your unique situation. Next, we take a detailed impression of your teeth. This process involves using a soft impression material that captures the exact shape and size of your teeth and gums. The accuracy of this impression is crucial for creating a mouthguard that is a perfect fit for you.
Fabrication
Once the impression is taken, it is sent to a dental laboratory where your custom mouthguard is fabricated. Our laboratory partner, Tuff Mouthguards, uses high-quality materials and the latest technology to ensure that your mouthguard is durable, effective, and safe. The fabrication process involves thermoforming the medical-grade plastic material around a model of your teeth, creating a mouthguard that is a perfect match to your dental anatomy.
Fitting and Adjustments
When your custom mouthguard is ready, you’ll return to Beaches Dental Mona Vale. Here you can try in your mouthguard and make sure it is comfortable and ready to go.
Caring for Your Custom Mouthguard
Maintaining the condition of your custom mouthguard is crucial for ensuring its longevity and effectiveness.
Here are some care tips:
Rinse Before and After Use: Always rinse your mouthguard with cold water before and after each use. This helps remove any debris and prevents the build-up of bacteria.
Clean Regularly: Clean your mouthguard at least once a week with a mouthguard cleanser or soak. Make sure to rinse and dry thoroughly after cleaning.
Avoid Heat: Keep your mouthguard away from high temperatures, such as hot water, direct sunlight, or the dashboard of your car, as heat can warp its shape.
Store Properly: When not in use, store your mouthguard in the provided ventilated case. This protects it from damage and ensures it remains hygienic.
Check for Wear: Regularly inspect your mouthguard for signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, it may be time for a replacement to maintain optimal protection.
Replacement and Upkeep
Custom mouthguards are durable, but they’re not indestructible. The lifespan of a mouthguard depends on several factors, including the intensity of your sports activity, how well you care for it, and growth or changes in your dental structure. Children and teenagers with changing dental structures will need to replace their mouthguards quicker than adults.
We recommend having your mouthguard checked by a professional at Beaches Dental Mona Vale during your regular dental checkups to assess its condition and fit.
Why Choose Beaches Dental Mona Vale?
At Beaches Dental Mona Vale, we’re committed to providing athletes of all ages with the highest quality custom mouthguards. Our partnership with Tuff Mouthguards ensures that each mouthguard is fabricated with precision and care, using only the best materials. Our team of dental professionals is trained to assess your specific needs and recommend the best protection for your sports activities.
Conclusion
A custom mouthguard is an essential piece of protective equipment for anyone participating in contact sports. At Beaches Dental Mona Vale, we understand the importance of protecting your smile and are dedicated to offering personalised, high-quality dental care.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward safeguarding your dental health.
If you’re a member of the Warringah Rats Rugby or Narrabeen Sharks Rugby League Clubs, please let us know during your consultation as you’re eligible for a club sponsor offer.
