Finding the Best Sports Mouth Guards for You
Introduction
Sports mouthguards are an essential piece of protective equipment for anyone participating in contact sports or activities with a risk of injury to the mouth. Choosing the right mouthguard can make a big difference in terms of both comfort and safety, so it's important to take the time to find the right one for your needs.
Considerations
When choosing a mouthguard, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, it should fit properly and be comfortable to wear. A mouthguard that is too loose or too tight can be uncomfortable and may even interfere with your ability to breathe or speak properly.
In addition to fit, you should also consider the level of protection the mouthguard offers. Some mouthguards are designed to protect only the teeth, while others provide additional protection for the lips, cheeks, and gums. If you participate in a particularly high-impact sport, you may want to opt for a mouthguard that offers more comprehensive protection.
Another factor to consider is the material the mouthguard is made from. Latex-free mouthguards are a good option for those with allergies or sensitivities, and some mouthguards are made from materials that are designed to be more durable and long-lasting.
Types of Mouthguards
There are three main types of mouthguards to choose from: pre-formed mouthguards, boil-and-bite mouthguards, and custom-fitted mouthguards.
Pre-formed mouthguards are the least expensive and most readily available option. These mouthguards are pre-shaped and ready to wear right out of the package. While they are easy to use, they may not fit as well as other types of mouthguards and may not provide as much protection.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are a step up from pre-formed mouthguards in terms of fit and protection. These mouthguards are made from a moldable material that you can soften by boiling in water. Once the mouthguard has been softened, you can bite down on it to create a custom fit. While boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a better fit than pre-formed mouthguards, they may not be as comfortable or as durable.
Custom-fitted mouthguards are the most expensive option, but they offer the best fit and the most protection. These mouthguards are made by a dentist or orthodontist using a mold of your teeth. The result is a mouthguard that is tailored to your mouth and provides the highest level of protection. While custom-fitted mouthguards are the most expensive option, they are also the most comfortable and the most durable.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sports mouthguard is an important decision for anyone participating in contact sports or activities with a risk of injury to the mouth. Consider the fit, level of protection, and material of the mouthguard, as well as your personal preferences and budget, when making your decision. With the right mouthguard, you can protect your teeth, lips, cheeks, and gums and enjoy your chosen activity with peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between a sports mouth guard and a dental mouth guard?
Sports mouth guards are designed to absorb shock and protect against injuries during contact sports, while dental mouth guards aim to protect teeth and jaws from teeth grinding and TMJ symptoms.
2. Should I wear a mouthguard for sports?
The American Dental Association recommends wearing custom mouthguards for various sports including basketball, football, hockey, martial arts, and more. Mouthguards provide essential protection for the teeth and jaws during physical activities.
3. What does a sports mouth guard do?
A sports mouth guard is worn over the upper teeth during contact sports to create a protective barrier between the teeth and potential impacts. It helps prevent tooth loss and injuries to the mouth and jaw caused by tackles, punches, or other impacts.
4. What can I use instead of a mouthguard?
If you are seeking an alternative to a mouthguard, an occlusal splint can be used to correct teeth grinding. It helps reposition the jaw muscles and prevents bruxism during sleep. Consult with your dentist to determine the best option for your specific needs.
5. Can my dentist make me a sports mouthguard?
Yes, a dentist can create a custom-made sports mouthguard that is tailored to your specific needs. This allows for adjustments to speech requirements, individual occlusal differences, and the relative dental and concussion injury risks associated with your sport.
6. Can you sleep with a sports mouthguard?
Sports mouthguards are not designed to be worn while sleeping. They are meant for use during sports activities to protect the teeth and jaw from impacts. For nighttime teeth grinding, a separate night guard is recommended.
7. Why do NFL players not wear mouthguards?
There are a few reasons why some NFL players choose not to wear mouthguards. They can make breathing difficult, especially during intense physical activity, and can hinder an athlete's ability to quench their thirst. Additionally, some players may find them uncomfortable or restrictive.
Wearing a well-fitted mouthguard during contact sports offers several benefits. It provides protection for all teeth, cushions the jaw, and creates space between the upper and lower teeth. These features help absorb impacts and reduce the risk of knocked-out teeth and other injuries.
9. Is it OK to wear a mouthguard all day?
While it is common to wear mouthguards for teeth grinding at night, wearing them all day is not necessary. Mouthguards for grinding can be worn at any time, but most people wear them during sleep to prevent teeth clenching and grinding overnight.
Editor's Notes
During our sports mouth guard research, we found 24 sports mouth guard products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 283,439 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sports mouth guards list. We found that most customers choose sports mouth guards with an average price of $14.29.
The sports mouth guards are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sports mouth guards, including Shock Doctor, Frienda, SAFEJAWZ, OPRO, Venum. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.