Prevent dental injuries with sports dentistry and custom sports mouthguards in Nanaimo, BC.
At our Nanaimo dental clinic, we see sports-related dental injuries all too often, from chipped or knocked-out teeth, cuts on the gums or cheeks, and even jaw injuries. These types of injuries are completely preventable with custom fitted sports mouthguards.
What is a sports mouthguard?
A sports mouthguard is a dental device designed to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw during physical activities, especially contact sports. It fits over your teeth and helps to absorb the impact of hits, falls, or accidental collisions. Wearing a mouthguard reduces risk of injuries like chipped or knocked-out teeth and cuts to the inside of the mouth. There are several types of athletic mouthguards: Stock mouthguards, boil and bite mouthguards and custom-fitted mouthguards. At Nanaimo Smiles, we offer the latter using our iTero technology.
How do custom-fitted sports mouthguards protect your smile?
If you or your child is involved in Nanaimo sports like hockey, baseball, or soccer, you know how cringe-worthy some of those falls or hits can be. Custom sports mouthguards can protect teeth by providing a precise, snug fit that’s perfectly matched to their unique dental structure. Unlike generic mouthguards, which can be uncomfortable and may shift during use, a custom mouthguard is molded to your teeth, ensuring it stays securely in place during use. This customized level of fit is key to maximizing the protective benefits.
A custom mouthguard works by acting like a cushion between your teeth and the impact force during sports. It absorbs and distributes the shock from hits or falls, reducing the risk of damaging or losing teeth. It also helps protect against soft tissue injuries in the mouth, like cuts to the gums or cheeks, and can even reduce the risk of jaw fractures.
When should my child start wearing a sports mouthguard?
While you may think that your little athlete only needs a sports mouthguard if they’re involved in sports where they’re at risk of being hit, this is really only half the story. In reality, your child should wear a sports mouthguard whenever they participate in any physical activity that poses a risk of injury to their teeth, mouth, or jaw. This includes not only contact sports like football, hockey, and basketball, but also activities where there’s a chance of falling, colliding, or being hit, such as soccer, gymnastics, skateboarding, or cycling.
How are custom-fitted sports mouthguards made in Nanaimo?
At Nanaimo Smiles, we utilize our advanced dental technology to ensure getting a custom-fitted mouthguard is as efficient as possible. The process begins with a consultation with your Nanaimo dentist, where we’ll discuss the sports you or your child plays and any concerns you may have regarding protection. Our goal is to understand your specific requirements for a custom mouthguard to ensure we are completely aligned.
Our team of dental professionals in Nanaimo utilize an intraoral scanner to take precise, 3D impressions of your smile (the same tech we use in our custom-made teeth whitening trays). Unlike traditional messy molds, this digital scan is quick and comfortable.This ensures that the custom-fitted mouthguard will fit perfectly and securely, providing the best possible protection for your smile. Once we have the scan, the images are sent to a dental lab where the mouthguard is created from a durable, flexible material that provides optimal protection. When the mouthguard is ready, our dental team will be in touch for an in-person fitting.
How comfortable is a sports mouthguard?
At Nanaimo Smiles, we want to make sure you are able to focus on the game–not on an uncomfortable dental appliance. A sports mouthguard—especially a custom-made one—is designed to be as comfortable as possible while providing maximum protection. Because custom mouthguards are made from a model of your mouthe, they fit precisely and comfortably, unlike over-the-counter options that may be bulky or ill-fitting. This custom fit means that the mouthguard stays securely in place during physical activity, without causing discomfort or interfering with breathing or speaking. The material used in custom mouthguards is also flexible yet durable, and feels soft against the teeth and gums. Once accustomed to wearing it, it’s likely you’ll forget it’s even in your mouth during games or practice.
How should I care for my sports mouthguard?
As with any custom-made dental appliance, you’ll want to ensure proper care to extend its lifespan. Caring for a sports mouthguard isn’t complicated, and only requires a few steps to maintain its condition and cleanliness.
- Clean After Each Use: Rinse the mouthguard with cold water after each use to remove any debris. You can also clean it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste. Avoid using hot water, as it can distort the shape.
- Store Properly: Always store the mouthguard in a sturdy case when it’s not in use. This helps prevent damage from pressure, heat, or dirt. Make sure the case is well-ventilated to allow the mouthguard to dry completely after cleaning.
- Inspect Regularly: Check your sports mouthguard regularly for signs of wear or damage. If it’s cracked, torn, or no longer fits properly, it’s time to replace it. A mouthguard that is not in good condition may not offer the same level of protection.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep your mouthguard away from hot surfaces, like the dashboard of a car, or direct sunlight for extended periods, as heat can warp the material.
- Replace When Needed: If the mouthguard looks like it’s worn out in certain areas, it may need to be replaced altogether. If you notice the material wearing down or that your mouthguard isn’t as snug as it once was, we recommend you come see our Nanaimo dental team.
How much are custom sports mouthguards in Nanaimo?
What you can expect to pay for a custom sports mouthguard can vary depending on factors like the material used and the complexity of the design, but typically, a custom sports mouthguard ranges from $4d00 to $500. While the initial cost may seem higher than over-the-counter options, the comfort, fit, and level of protection a custom mouthguard provides make it a worthwhile investment. Some dental insurance policies may cover a portion of the cost for custom mouthguards, particularly if they are considered medically necessary due to the sport. However, coverage can vary widely between insurance providers, so it’s a good idea to check with your insurance company to confirm what is covered under your plan. If you have any questions about dental care costs, please do not hesitate to contact our team and we’d be happy to discuss your options with you.
What’s the difference between a sports mouthguard and a night guard?
Many people are now using night guards to protect their smile while sleeping, these appliances are quite different from a sports mouthguard. While the process to create them is similar, the materials used serve different purposes. A night guard is worn while sleeping to protect your teeth from grinding (bruxism) or clenching. It helps prevent wear on your teeth, jaw pain, and headaches that can come from grinding during the night. Night guards are typically made from softer, more flexible materials than sports mouthguards because they’re designed specifically for comfort during sleeping. So while both types of mouthguards are meant to protect your teeth, the softer material used to create a night guard won’t offer the same level of protection needed during sports or physical activities.
Kids Custom Sports Mouthguards in Nanaimo, BC
At Nanaimo Smiles, we take a special interest in kids’ dentistry and love making dental visits a fun and positive experience for children. We know that kids want to enjoy sports without worrying about their teeth, so we’re excited to help them stay active and safe with custom sports mouthguards. From the moment kids walk in, we create a welcoming environment that’s full of smiles and understanding. We take the time to explain things in a way that feels easy and engaging, making sure kids feel comfortable and excited about their dental care. Our goal is to make taking care of their teeth something they look forward to, so they can enjoy their favourite activities with confidence and a healthy smile.
Custom Sports Mouthguards in Nanaimo, BC
If you’re looking for custom-fitted sports mouthguards in Nanaimo, BC to reduce risk of sports-related dental injuries such as chipped or knocked-out teeth or injured gums, our Nanaimo dental team is ready to help. Contact our team today to book your consultation.