An athletic mouthguard is a retainer-like restoration worn in your mouth to protect your teeth and gums against sports injuries. A sports guard cushions your teeth, gums, lips, and cheeks against knocks, blows and falls. A mouthguard protects your mouth from fractures, tooth loss, cuts, etc. A mouthguard also protects you from concussions by absorbing and dispersing the force of impacts to the jaw.

Sports injuries take a second to happen. You could have played numerous games, but it takes one incident to crack or knock out your tooth. Always wear a mouthguard because you never know when an injury will strike.

Who needs a mouthguard?

We recommend sports mouthguards to individuals participating in sports or recreational activities with a risk of dental injuries. Whether you are an amateur or professional player, wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports like hockey, football, rugby, etc. Besides, a sports guard is necessary for non-contact, high-risk activities like cycling, skiing, gymnastics, etc.

Can I consider store-bought mouthguards?

You can buy sports guards from the nearest sports goods store. Stock mouthguards are the cheapest and come in standard sizes—small, medium, and large. Although cheap and convenient, we don’t recommend stock mouthguards. They rarely fit well and can cause more harm than good. Boil and bite is another option available over the counter. While they offer better protection than generic mouthguards, they aren’t the best.

Our office only recommends customized sports guards. These mouthguards are created after taking impressions of your bite. They fit snugly over your mouth, providing ultimate comfort and protection on the field of play. Besides, we make our mouthguards with durable materials to ensure long-lasting outcomes.

How are customized mouthguards created?

It takes two easy dental visits to fabricate your bespoke sports guard. The first visit involves bringing digital scans of your teeth and gums. These digital images guide our dental lab in creating a mouthguard that matches the exact specifications of your dentition. Due to this careful approach, customized mouthguards fit securely and allow for natural breathing and speaking while wearing.

Once we receive your mouthguard, you’ll schedule another appointment to pick it up. Our team will give instructions on how to wear and maintain your mouthguard. Always wear your sportsguard when participating in any activity that may cause dental injuries.

How should I maintain my mouthguard?

You must clean your mouthguard after every use to enhance its durability and aesthetics. When you remove a mouthguard, you should:

  • Rinse it with cold or lukewarm water to remove harmful substances
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap to clean your mouthguard
  • Rinse it again and let it air to dry
  • Store your mouthguard in a dry, ventilated case when not in use

Don’t use abrasive detergents to clean your mouthguard. Also, don’t use hot water because this can warp the plastic. Regular maintenance prevents bacterial growth, ensuring your oral device stays clean and healthy.

I need a sportsguard—what’s next?

Do you need a sportsguard in Tysons, Virginia? Call (703) 952-0663 and schedule an appointment with Avanti Dentistry. Let’s protect your smile while you play your favorite game.