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Sports Dentistry

What are the Different Types of Mouthguards?

Choosing the right mouthguard is essential. Mouthguards help protect teeth and gums from injury. If your child participates in basketball, boxing, hockey, football, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, racquetball, rugby, track and field, skateboarding, skiing and snowboarding, skydiving, soccer, surfing, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting or wrestling, it is recommended by the American Dental Association that a mouthguard is worn.

There are three basic types of mouthguards:

  • Pre-made mouthguard
  • “Boil-and-bite” fitted mouthguard
  • Custom-made mouthguard.

When choosing a mouthguard, be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, comfortable and well fitted to your child’s mouth, easy to keep clean, and does not prevent him from breathing properly. If he wears braces or a retainer, it is imperative for him to wear a mouthguard. Your dentist can show your child how to wear a mouthguard properly and how to choose the right mouthguard.