Custom Mouthguards Calgary
Our Calgary Orthodontist, Dr. Trpkova, believes that prevention is the cornerstone of a healthy, stunning smile, especially when it comes to playing sports. Whether you enjoy martial arts, basketball, or even extreme sports like skydiving, protecting your teeth and gums is of utmost importance.
That’s where custom mouthguards come into play.
With decades of experience in orthodontic care, Dr. Trpkova regularly recommends custom mouthguards to help protect patients from preventable dental injuries. A properly fitted mouthguard can help reduce the risk of damage to the teeth, gums, jaws, and surrounding oral structures while participating in athletic activities.
Why Should You Wear A Mouthguard?
Serving as a shield for your teeth, mouthguards are an excellent preventative measure against potential oral injuries during physical activities. From unexpected impacts to incidental bites, mouthguards provide a barrier that reduces the risk of chipped or broken teeth, cuts to the lips and gums, and other injuries.
For athletes participating in contact sports such as football, rugby, martial arts, and ice hockey, a properly fitted mouth guard is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of mouth injuries, jaw injuries, and even tooth loss resulting from accidental impacts.
At InLine Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to promoting oral health and safety for athletes with our selection of high-quality, custom-made mouthguards. Start your journey to a safer, more secure smile today.
When to Wear a Mouthguard?
The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends wearing a mouth guard when participating in sports such as basketball, boxing, hockey, football, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, racquetball, rugby, track and field, skateboarding, skiing and snowboarding, skydiving, soccer, surfing, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting, and wrestling.
Even athletes participating in recreational leagues or school sports can benefit from wearing a custom mouth guard. Many dental injuries occur during routine play rather than high-level competition.
For optimal protection, InLine Orthontics offers Custom Mouthguards in Calgary that athletes can rely on. These custom mouthguards ensure a perfect fit, providing the safety and comfort you need for your active lifestyle.
Why Choose a Custom Mouthguard?
Not all mouthguards provide the same level of protection. While over-the-counter options may offer basic coverage, a custom made mouth guard is designed specifically for your teeth and bite. This custom fit allows for greater comfort, improved retention, and better protection during athletic activities.
Custom mouthguards are especially beneficial for patients with braces, orthodontic appliances, or unique bite patterns, where generic mouthguards may not fit properly or provide adequate protection.
Types of Mouthguards
A mouth guard should not only protect your teeth and gums effectively but also fit comfortably, resist tearing, be simple to clean, and not interfere with your ability to breathe. This is why at InLine Orthodontics, we provide a comprehensive guide to help you make the best choice for your oral safety.
There are three primary types of mouthguards to consider: the pre-made mouthguard, the “boil-and-bite” fitted mouthguard, and the custom-made mouthguard.
Pre-Made Mouthguards
Pre-made mouthguards, as their name implies, come ready to wear. They can be found in most sporting goods stores and are often an economical choice for athletes. While these mouthguards are readily available and convenient, they may not provide the most optimal fit since they are not tailored to your unique dental structure.
These stock mouth protectors are often available in limited sizes and may feel bulky or uncomfortable. Because they are not customized to your mouth, they can shift during activity and may provide less protection than professionally fitted alternatives.
It’s crucial to note that a poorly fitting mouthguard may not offer adequate protection, so consult with our orthodontist if you choose this option.
“Boil-and-Bite” Fitted Mouthguards
A step up from pre-made mouthguards, “boil-and-bite” mouthguards provide a more personalized fit. Made from thermoplastic material, they are initially heated (commonly by boiling), and then bitten into, which allows the mouthguard to conform to the shape of your mouth. This provides a better fit and, consequently, more effective protection than a pre-made mouthguard.
These can also be purchased at sporting goods stores.
Custom-Made Mouthguards
For the highest level of comfort, fit, and protection, custom-made mouthguards are the gold standard. Created in our orthodontic office, these mouthguards are crafted based on detailed impressions of your teeth, ensuring a perfect fit.
Most custom athletic mouthguards are designed to fit securely over the upper teeth, providing protection while still allowing athletes to breathe and communicate comfortably during play.
While custom-made mouthguards are more expensive than other options, they offer superior protection and comfort, making them a worthwhile investment, particularly for athletes with braces or retainers.
Our orthodontist will guide you on proper wear and care to maximize the lifespan and effectiveness of your custom mouth guard.
Custom Mouthguards for Athletes and Active Families
Whether you’re a competitive athlete, a weekend warrior, or a parent looking to protect your child’s smile, a professionally fitted mouthguard is a smart investment. At InLine Orthodontics, we create custom mouthguards for athletes of all ages who participate in sports ranging from basketball and soccer to martial arts and ice hockey.
Protecting your smile today can help prevent costly dental treatment and serious injuries tomorrow.
Taking Care of Your Mouthguard
Similar to a retainer, braces, or any other special dental appliance, it’s important to take care of your mouthguard by storing it properly and keeping it clean. Knowing when it’s time to replace your old mouthguard with a new one is also a valuable skill. If it’s worn down or no longer fits properly, it might be time for a new one!
Here are a few simple ways to keep your mouthguard clean and working correctly:
- Gently scrub your mouthguard after each use with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
Store your mouthguard in a protective case. - Do not leave your mouthguard in the sun or in hot water as it may melt or become deformed.
- Replace your mouthguard at the beginning of every new sports season.
- Do not wear a retainer with your mouthguard. If you wear braces, your doctor will help design a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth and your braces.
- Do not chew on or cut pieces off of your mouthguard. Mouthguards come in different shapes and sizes, so ask your doctor which is best for you.
- Bring your mouthguard to each orthodontic check-up and so that your doctor can check to make sure it’s still in good shape!
Book Your Free* Consultation Today
Choosing the right mouthguard can make a significant difference in safeguarding your teeth and gums and our top recommendation for this is a custom-made mouthguard.
Crafted to the unique contours of your mouth, these mouthguards not only provide superior protection but also ensure optimal comfort, allowing you to focus on your sport rather than your oral appliance.
For patients who also experience teeth grinding during sleep, Dr. Trpkova can discuss whether a separate appliance such as a night guard may be beneficial. Athletic mouthguards and night guards are designed for different purposes and should not be used interchangeably.
However, we understand that everyone’s needs and budgets may vary, which is why we invite you to schedule a free* consultation with our experienced Calgary orthodontist, Dr. Trpkova.
Calgary Orthodontics with over 20 years of experience. We offer traditional braces & Invisalign in a friendly environment for beautiful, healthy smiles.