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Athletes who value their smiles and recognize the risks they face actively seek high-quality mouth guards. The rule is straightforward: If your jaw isnât made of steel, you NEED a mouth guard for high-impact sports. Letâs break it down:
If you play any sort of sport where getting hit or falling is a possibility, a mouth guard can save your teeth and mouth from some serious damage. Now, if youâre asking yourself why you need one, how to pick the right one, or where to get one, donât worry. This guide will explain everything you need to know, step by step.
What Is a Sports Mouth Guard?
A sports mouth guard is like a shield for your teeth. Itâs a special piece of plastic that fits over your upper teeth and keeps them safe if you get hit in the mouth. Imagine it as armor for your smile! Itâs usually made of soft, flexible material that absorbs the impact of a fall, a ball, or even someone elseâs elbow.
Mouth guards are required in some sports because theyâre so good at preventing injuries. Without one, youâre putting your teeth, gums, and even your jaw at risk every time you play.
When Should You Use a Mouth Guard?
You should wear a mouth guard any time youâre doing an activity where you might get hit in the face. Here are some examples:
Contact Sports
Playing contact sports such as football, rugby, hockey, basketball, boxing, and martial arts involve physical contact where players will often trip, fall, face blows, and run into each other. Players are at an increased risk of dental injuries during contact sports and need a mouth guard to save their teeth from damage.
Collision Sports
Professional games like soccer, lacrosse, and field hockey involve a high risk of collisions or falls that could lead to injuries to the mouth and teeth. Collision sports mouthguards act as a cushion against the force of these impacts.
Combat Sports
Sports like wrestling, mixed martial arts (MMA), and boxing involve intentional strikes to the face and head; this makes combat sports mouth guards essential for protecting teeth and soft tissues in combat sports even if it's just practice.
Extreme Sports
Sports or leisure activities such as skateboarding, mountain biking, snowboarding, and skiing come with inherent risks of crashes and falls, which can result in mouth injuries. Always wear a mouth guard during extreme sports to save your jaws and teeth.
Practice Sessions
Athletes are trained to endure pressure and intense practice from an early age. Parents often feel more at peace when their child wears mouth guards during their practices. Sports mouth guards keep their mouths safe from severe injuries when they practice any of these sports, allowing them to play freely.
What Makes a Good Mouth Guard?
Not all mouth guards are created equal. Some protect your teeth better than others, and some are just more comfortable to wear. Hereâs what to look for:
- Proper Fit: A good mouth guard should fit snugly over your teeth without feeling too tight or falling out. If it doesnât fit right, it wonât protect you properly.
- Comfort: Nobody wants to wear something uncomfortable for hours. A mouth guard should feel natural in your mouth. If itâs too bulky, itâll be hard to talk, breathe, or even play.
- Durability: Your mouth guard should be tough enough to handle impacts without breaking or wearing out too quickly. Itâs worth investing in a good one to avoid replacing it often.
Types of Mouth Guards
There are a few different types of mouth guards you can choose from. Hereâs how they stack up:
Stock Mouth Guards
These are the ones you find at the store that are already made in one size. Theyâre cheap and easy to buy but donât fit well. You might even have to bite down to keep them in place, which isnât ideal.
Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards
These are a step up. You soften them in hot water, then bite down to shape them to your teeth. They fit better than stock mouth guards, but theyâre not perfect and can still feel uncomfortable.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
These are the gold standard. A custom mouth guard is made just for you, based on an exact mold of your teeth. Theyâre super comfortable, fit perfectly, and provide the best protection. Brands like Aligner32 even let you make your mold at home, so you donât have to visit a dentist.
Why Choose Aligner32 Custom Mouth Guards?
If youâre serious about protecting your teeth, Aligner32 is a great choice. Their mouth guards are:
- Custom-Fitted: Made just for your teeth, so theyâre comfy and effective.
- Durable: With a 4mm thickness, theyâre tough enough to handle impacts.
- Safe: Made from BPA-free materials, which means theyâre safe for your mouth.
- Affordable: You donât need to break the bank to get top-quality protection.
How to Order Custom Mouth Guards from Aligner32
Getting a custom mouth guard from Aligner32 is simple:
- Order Your Kit: Go to Aligner32âs official website and buy an impression kit. It has everything you need to make a mold of your teeth.
- Make Your Mold: Follow the instructions to create your mold and send it back to Aligner32.
- Get Your Mouth Guards: Your custom-made mouth guards will arrive at your doorstep, ready to protect your smile.
Caring for Your Mouth Guard
Taking care of your mouth guards helps them last longer and keeps them clean. Hereâs what to do:
- Clean It Daily: Rinse your mouth guards with water after each use. Once a week, soak it in a cleaning solution or use a denture cleaner.
- Store It Properly: Always keep your mouth guards in a protective case when youâre not using them. Donât leave it in hot places like your car or near a heater; heat can warp it.
- Replace It When Needed: If you notice cracks, tears, or itâs not fitting well anymore, itâs time to get a new one.
FAQs
How do I clean my sports mouth guard?
Rinse it with water after use, brush it gently, and occasionally soak it in a cleaning solution.
Can sports mouth guards be used for sleep?
Not really. Night guards are better for sleeping because theyâre thinner and more comfortable.
Can I wear a mouth guards with braces?
Yes! Just make sure to get one designed for braces so it fits properly.
What type of mouth guards offer the best protection?
Custom-made mouth guards are the best because theyâre tailored to your teeth and provide the most comfort and safety.
