Do you have children involved in sports? Then you should seriously consider the health of their teeth. Rigorous sports can reek havoc on teeth, if they’re not properly protected against brunt forces. In this helpful blog, Dr. James Stewart, your 48154 dentist explains available mouthguard varieties and how each function.
The Three Mouthguard Types
- Stock mouthguards. This type of mouthguard is ready-to-wear. You can find stock mouthguards at virtually any sporting goods store. Additionally, stock mouthguards don’t cost very much—between $5- $15 per mouth piece. The downside to stock mouth pieces is the sizing. Typically, stock mouthguards comes in small, medium, or large. However, everyone’s mouth differs and using a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t as effective.Furthermore, these mouthguards tend to feel bulky and can make breathing a difficult task. Though some protection is better than none, stock mouthguards may not necessarily work best.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards. Also available in sporting goods stores, these mouthguards have more flexibility in terms of fit. It’s made from a thermoplastic material that softens in hot water. Once the mouthguard is malleable, it’s placed on the teeth and contoured to fit your mouth’s structure. Moreover, this option is still quite affordable in the $20 to $50 range.As with anything, the downfall of this protective mouth piece is that adjusting the shape requires some finesse. If you’re considering this option have your 48154 dentist help you create the first set.
- Custom-fitted mouthguards. A custom-made mouthguard is the best way to protect your child’s teeth; yet, it’s the most expensive. These can price in the hundreds of dollars, depending on the dentist. To have one made, the doctor takes impressions of your child’s teeth and sends the model to a lab. Once there, a technician manufactures the mouthguard mold from a specialized material and returns it to the dentist for patient use.
Sports that Require the Use of a Mouthguard
If your child partakes in any of the following activities, they should have some kind of protective covering over their teeth.
- Basketball
- Football
- Rugby
- Volleyball
- Wrestling
- Soccer
Visit Your Livonia Dentist for Children’s Dentistry
Your kids can have healthier smiles with the help of your Livonia 48154 dentist. With a mouthguard, your child can play sports without having to worry about the integrity of their oral health. To schedule an appointment, call our office at (734) 425-4400. Also, visit our website to view services, testimonials, and print patient forms. We look forward to treating patients from Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Northville, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, and surrounding areas.