Sports Mouthguards

Sports are a wonderful activity for people of all ages. However, some sports can pose risks for injuries. To prevent injuries in a collision with other players, you put on the appropriate protective gear. Helmets are frequently used to protect your head from harm. However, even in the event of contact, you may still experience oral trauma. At Raptou Family Dental, we can help you to protect your mouth (or the mouth of your child) with a sports mouthguard.

Protecting Your Whole Mouth

A sports mouthguard is designed to protect your mouth (or your child’s mouth) while you play sports—soccer, football, lacrosse, etc. A proper sports mouthguard performs several essential functions:

•	It should protect your teeth from chips, fractures, or avulsions.
•	It should protect the soft tissues of your mouth from lacerations and other contusions.
•	It should protect your jaw from fracturing or dislocation.

Types of Sports Mouthguards

There are three main types of sports mouthguards:

•	Stock mouthguards. A stock mouthguard is a pre-molded mouthguard that can be found at just about any sporting goods store. While it is the most inexpensive option, it does have many downsides. The major disadvantage of these mouthguards is that because they are pre-molded, they may not properly fit your teeth. This can increase your risk of experiencing an injury or make it difficult for you to breathe while you play.
•	Boil and bite mouthguards. A boil and bite mouthguard is another mouthguard commonly found in most sporting goods stores. These mouthguards provide a semi-custom fit, which is achieved by softening the mouthguard in boiling water and biting into it.
•	Custom fit mouthguards. A custom fit mouthguard is one that is custom created in our office from molds of your mouth. While a more expensive option, these types of mouthguards provide the best protection.

Taking Care of Your Sports Mouthguard

For your mouthguard to protect your mouth, you need to take care of it. Brushing it before and after each use is ideal, but rinsing it off with water will work as well. Periodically, clean it with soap and water.

Your mouthguard should be stored in a protective case when not in use (even if it is sitting on your counter). The case should be vented for airflow, which will help to prevent the buildup of bacteria. Never leave your mouthguard exposed to heat or sunlight for prolonged periods of time. At the first sign of damage, it is time to get your mouthguard replaced. Any damage can decrease its effectiveness.

Benefits of a Sports Mouthguard

Sports mouthguards have numerous benefits:

•	Your teeth are protected from severe damage.
•	It absorbs impact.
•	It protects your jaw from dislocation and fractures.
•	It can greatly reduce your risk of suffering a concussion.
•	You save potentially thousands of dollars in dental bills.

Protecting your mouth when you play sports is essential for preventing serious damage. Call Raptou Family Dental today at (614) 427-0449 to learn more.

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(614) 427-0449

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136 Northwoods Blvd Suite A1
Columbus, OH 43235

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Sports Mouth Guards Columbus, OH • Raptou Family Dental
Protecting your mouth when you play sports is essential for preventing serious damage. Call Raptou Family Dental today at (614) 427-0449 to learn more.
Raptou Family Dental, 136 Northwoods Blvd, Suite A1, Columbus, OH 43235 / (614) 427-0449 / raptou.com / 9/26/2021 / Key Phrases: Dentist Columbus OH / Dentist Columbus OH /