There are a lot of over the counter, do-it-yourself options when it comes to mouthguards. If you play sport or your children play sport, chances are, you have found yourself boiling the kettle and wrestling with a pliable, at-home mouthguard. Whilst this variety will offer you some protection, it is always recommended that you get a mouthguard professionally made and fitted by a denture prosthetist.
Children’s teeth are especially susceptible to sporting injury and a well-fitted mouthguard will not only increase your child’s confidence but give you peace of mind that their teeth are well protected. Back to our chemist/sports store mouthguards and why they are not the best choice especially for children’s teeth. A mouthguard needs a certain amount of heat and suction to be made correctly and this simply cannot be done with over-the-counter mouthguards.
If a mouthguard is not fitted properly it can be loose or uncomfortable. If it is loose then it is not going to be able to protect your teeth properly and you run the risk of it falling out as well. Choking or gagging are also a common side effect of an ill-fitting mouthguard. A professionally fitted mouthguard will feel comfortable and secure and should not impede the way that you breathe or cause you discomfort.
Denture Professional mouthguards are made from heavy duty, flexible, hard-wearing vinyl or laminate. Anyone who plays sport where there is a high chance of injury to their natural teeth should wear a professionally fitted mouthguard. Professionally fitted mouthguards greatly reduce the chances of tooth damage or painful laceration of the lips and mouth due to an impact. Mouthguards also assist to absorb the impact which may result in a damaged jaw and concussion.
Proper Mouthguard Care
Cleaning and storage: Mouthguards can be cleaned simply by rinsing under cold water after each use. They need to be brushed very lightly as well and this can be done easily with a soft toothbrush. Your mouthguard should be stored in a vented plastic container and should be kept away from heat and sunlight so as to avoid the growth of bacteria that can cause odour.
First aid tip: If a tooth is accidentally damaged from impact whilst wearing a mouthguard, it is wise to leave the mouth guard in position and get to a Dentist immediately. If a tooth is dislodged it should be rinsed in milk and placed back into the socket or kept moist and wrapped in plastic and of course, seek dental care immediately.
General Information Regarding Mouthguards
Mouthguards are subject to rebates for eligible patients covered under Dental Health Funds and the best news? You don’t need a referral to visit a dental prosthetist! A professionally fitted mouthguard doesn’t cost much more than the store-bought ones and for the peace of mind that they provide, the investment in your teeth is worth it. If you needed dentures (false teeth), a partial denture or denture repair, you’d go to a denture professional and a mouthguard is no different. To get the best protection, always see a professional Denture Clinician.
Need A Denture Clinic?
If you need a mouthguard or your denture is due for a cleaning, or have a denture concern, you can book an appointment online here or contact Denture Professionals Pinjarra on 9507 5758 OR Denture Professionals Rockingham on 9592 8980.
We pride ourselves on not only our quality, but our service as well.