Extra Protection for Your Teeth
It’s important to remember that even healthy teeth can still be damaged, which is why a mouth guard can be so valuable. There are different types of mouth guards designed to protect you from sports-related dental injuries. While you might find a one-size-fits-all option at the drugstore, it can easily shift out of place when you need it most. Some kits require boiling the guard and molding it to your teeth, but these too often fit poorly because they aren’t professionally made. We suggest visiting us so we can take precise measurements and create an impression of your mouth. This allows a custom mouth guard to be crafted in the lab, perfectly tailored to your teeth. At Gables Exceptional Dentistry, we are confident that our professionally made guards can help shield your teeth from most sports-related injuries.
What do mouth guards look like?
Many of our Coral Gables patients are curious about mouth guards but worry about how they will look. This concern is completely normal, as most people don’t want to draw attention to the protective gear they’re wearing. Luckily, our mouth guards are made from clear plastic, allowing them to blend in naturally. When you put one in discreetly, it’s unlikely anyone will notice it during practice or a game. This is another reason to get your mouth guard from our Coral Gables dental office. Store-bought options are often brightly colored and, because they don’t fit precisely, can shift or come loose, making them more noticeable. If you or your child prefer a colorful mouth guard, we can also create one that fits perfectly in the color you like.
Why do people wear mouth guards?
Mouth guards are primarily needed during sports practices and games. Many people, especially adults, don’t realize how frequently face and mouth injuries occur in sports. While some sports, like football, are well-known for requiring protective gear, others, such as basketball, are often overlooked, even though basketball players experience a high rate of injury. In fact, the American Dental Association reports that the risk of injury is 1.6 to 1.9 times greater when a mouth guard isn’t worn. Dental guards are highly effective at preventing these injuries, with the ADA estimating that around 200,000 injuries are avoided each year thanks to this simple device. For Coral Gables parents wanting to keep their children safe, providing a mouth guard is an easy and effective solution.
What is the risk of not wearing a mouth guard?
At Gables Exceptional Dentistry, we strongly encourage patients to wear a mouth guard and for parents to provide one for their children who play sports. This applies to organized leagues as well as casual games, like a weekly basketball match in the park. Without a mouth guard, a tooth can break, crack, chip, or even be knocked out by a stray ball or an accidental elbow. In more severe impacts, a tooth might be pushed up into the gums or pierce through the lips or cheek—situations that are not only painful but can also require immediate dental attention.
Is there a reason to have one created by a dentist?
Once you’ve decided to protect your teeth, the next step is to schedule an appointment at our Coral Gables, FL, dental office. We will examine your teeth, take precise measurements, create an impression, and have a custom mouth guard crafted just for you. This ensures a perfect fit that stays securely in place, no matter how fast you run, how high you jump, or how hard you hit the ball. Sports can be demanding, requiring your full focus and energy, and you need a mouth guard that can handle that intensity. When you come to our office, that is exactly what you will receive.
Are they affordable?
When you visit our office for a mouth guard, we can create one that fits perfectly and remains affordable for your family. While it may cost more than a store-bought guard, you’re receiving a higher-quality device with a precise fit. This investment is well worth it for protecting your teeth and avoiding more costly dental repairs in the future.
How do you clean mouth guards?
We recommend removing your mouth guard and rinsing it right after use. Store it in a safe case, and once you’re home, gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. This helps prevent plaque buildup on the guard. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive. If you’d like, we can also suggest a specialized cleaning solution that’s available on the market at the time.
Start protecting yourself and your children today by having your custom mouth guards created. Call (305) 614-2438 to schedule an appointment with our dental office.
