Whether your child plays football, your teenager competes in basketball, or you yourself enjoy recreational sports, protecting your teeth should always be part of your pre-game checklist. At Jackson Smiles Family Dentistry, we provide custom athletic mouthguards designed to fit comfortably and securely over your teeth. A properly fitted mouthguard can help reduce the risk and severity of dental injuries during sports and other activities.

Interested in learning more? Ready to be fitted for a custom athletic mouthguard? Contact us today!

Getting Your Custom Athletic Mouthguard

Getting a custom mouthguard is a straightforward process. During your appointment, our dental team will evaluate your teeth and discuss your sport, activities, and specific protection needs. We will then take an impression of your teeth to create a mouthguard designed for your individual smile.

Once your custom mouthguard is ready, we will check the fit and make sure it feels comfortable and secure. Our team can also provide instructions for wearing and caring for your mouthguard so it can continue to provide protection throughout the season. Children and teens may need their mouthguards checked more often as their teeth and jaws develop. Athletes with braces or other dental appliances may also need a specialized mouthguard.

How to Care for Your Mouthguard

Taking proper care of your mouthguard can help keep it clean, comfortable, and in good condition. After each use, rinse it with cool or lukewarm water to remove saliva and debris. You can gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap when needed.

Allow the mouthguard to air dry completely before placing it in its ventilated storage case. Keep it away from hot water and excessive heat, which can change its shape and affect the fit. Avoid chewing on your mouthguard, and inspect it regularly for tears, cracks, or other signs of damage. Bring your mouthguard to your regular dental appointments so our team can check its condition and fit. It should be replaced when it becomes damaged, worn, loose, or no longer fits properly.

Are custom mouthguards better than store-bought mouthguards?

Custom mouthguards are designed specifically for your teeth, providing a personalized fit that can help keep the mouthguard securely in place during athletic activities. A properly fitted mouthguard should be comfortable and allow you to breathe and speak without constantly adjusting it. Store-bought mouthguards can also provide protection when properly fitted, but they are not individually created for your mouth. For athletes, a custom mouthguard can offer the benefit of a fit designed around their individual teeth and dental needs.

Which sports require a mouthguard?

Mouthguards are commonly recommended for sports and activities where there is a risk of contact, collision, or falls. This includes football, hockey, lacrosse, wrestling, and martial arts, as well as activities such as basketball, soccer, baseball, gymnastics, and skateboarding. Even if a sport does not involve intentional contact, an unexpected fall or collision can result in an injury to the teeth, lips, cheeks, or tongue.

How often should I replace my athletic mouthguard?

There is no single replacement schedule that applies to every athlete. A mouthguard should be replaced when it becomes worn, damaged, loose, or no longer fits properly. Children and teens may also need new mouthguards as their teeth and jaws develop. During routine dental visits, our team can check your mouthguard or your child’s mouthguard and let you know if it may be time for a replacement.