A mouthguard is a cover that is placed on the teeth and is often used to protect the teeth from damage against bruxism (teeth grinding) and during exercise. There are different types of mouthguards:
Prefabricated and Ready To Use: They are inexpensive and can be purchased at most good sports stores and pharmacies. However, little work is done to adjust their fit, they are bulky, difficult to breathe and speak, and have little protection. Dentists do not recommend using it.
Boil & Bite Mouthguards: You can also buy Boyle & Bite mouthguards at many sporting goods stores, and they may be more convenient than ready-made bodyguards. The Boil & Bite mouthguard is made of thermoplastic material. To soften, it is placed in warm water, then placed in the mouth and formed using finger and tongue pressure around the teeth.
Custom mouthguards are designed and manufactured separately in the dentist’s office or professional laboratory according to the dentist’s instructions. First, your dentist molds your teeth, and then a mouthguard is created on the model using a special material. Due to the use of special materials and extra time and work, this custom mouthguard is more expensive than other types, but it gives you the most comfort and protection.
In general, mouthguards only cover your upper teeth, but in some cases (such as using a brace or fixed tooth device), your dentist will also provide mouth guards for the lower teeth. Your dentist can suggest the best mouthguard for you. An effective mouth guard should be comfortable, tear-resistant, durable and easy to clean, and should not restrict your breathing or speech.
Mouthguards should be used by anyone (children and adults) who plays contact sports such as football, boxing, ice hockey, basketball, polo and field hockey. However, even people who use non-contact sports (eg gymnastics) and any recreational activity (eg skateboarding, mountain biking) that may pose a risk of mouth injury may use mouthguards.
