Mouthguards Summer

Summer has arrived, and it brings a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy. Whether you like playing sports, hiking, or relaxing on the beach, summer is the best time to enjoy the warm weather. However, these activities come with a risk of injury, and we often forget about protecting our teeth. One of the ways to protect your teeth is by using mouthguards. This blog post will discuss why you should consider mouthguards for summer activities.

Why You Should Consider Mouthguards for Summer Activities

Protection from Impact

Mouthguards are designed to protect the teeth and gums from impact during sports and other physical activities. They absorb the impact force, reducing the risk of tooth fracture or loss.

Preventing Injuries

Mouthguards protect against direct impact but also against injuries caused by jaw clenching, which can lead to headaches, neck pain, and other problems.

Reducing the Risk of Concussions

Mouthguards can help reduce the risk of concussions by cushioning the impact of blows to the head. A custom-made mouthguard can provide even more protection by helping to stabilize the jaw.

Improved Performance

Wearing a mouthguard can improve an athlete's performance by providing security and confidence. Athletes can focus on their performance without worrying about injury because their teeth and gums are protected.

It Prevents Expensive Procedures

While custom-made mouthguards may be more expensive than stock or boil-and-bite mouthguards, they are worth the investment. They offer superior protection and comfort and can prevent expensive dental procedures in the future.

It Prevents Bruxism

Nightguards are a mouthguard that can prevent bruxism, a condition in which people grind or clench their teeth during sleep. This can lead to tooth wear, fractures, and other dental problems.

Alleviating Pain

Nightguards can also help alleviate pain caused by bruxism. Nightguards can reduce jaw pain, headaches, and other symptoms by cushioning the impact of grinding and clenching.

Protecting Dental Work

Mouthguards can protect dental work such as crowns, bridges, and dental implants. These restorations can be expensive to replace, and wearing a mouthguard can help extend their lifespan.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

Wearing a mouthguard can prevent dental emergencies such as broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and soft tissue injuries. By reducing the risk of injury, mouthguards can help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer season.

Types of Mouthguards & How They Protect Your Teeth

Mouthguards are essential protective gear for anyone who engages in sports or other physical activities that pose a risk of dental injury. They are dental devices designed to cover and protect the teeth and gums from damage during impact or trauma.

Several types of mouthguards are available, each with unique features and benefits.

Stock Mouthguards

They are made from a soft, pliable rubber or silicone and come in various sizes. While stock mouthguards are affordable and easy to find, they often offer limited protection. They may not fit well, making them uncomfortable to wear.

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Boil-and-bite mouthguards are also available at retail stores. They are made from a thermoplastic material that softens when boiled. Once the material is soft, it can be molded to the shape of the wearer's teeth and gums by biting down on it. Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a better fit than stock mouthguards, but they still may not provide as much protection as custom-made mouthguards.

Custom-Made Mouthguards

Custom-made mouthguards are the most effective type of mouthguard designed to fit the specific contours of the wearer's teeth and gums. They are made by a dentist or dental lab using impressions of the patient's teeth. Custom-made mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort, as they are tailored to the individual's needs. They are more expensive than stock or boil-and-bite mouthguards, but they are worth the investment, especially for athletes who engage in high-contact sports.

Nightguards

Nightguards are a mouthguard designed to protect against bruxism, a condition where people grind or clench their teeth, often unconsciously, during sleep. Nightguards are made from a soft material and are customized to fit the wearer's teeth. They provide a cushioning effect that helps to reduce the impact of grinding and clenching on the teeth and gums, preventing damage and alleviating pain.

Tips to Protect Your Smile During Summer

Here are some tips to protect your smile during summer:

Wear a Mouthguard

A mouthguard is one of the best ways to protect your teeth and gums during summer activities. Consult with a Shoreline dentist such as Eric Yao, DDS, MAGD, LLSR to get fitted for a mouthguard that fits your teeth and gums perfectly.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water during outdoor activities can help keep your mouth moist and prevent dry mouth. A dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay and other dental problems.

Avoid Sugary and Acidic Foods and Drinks

Summer is a time for sweet treats and cold drinks, but consuming too many sugary and acidic foods and drinks can lead to tooth decay and erosion. Opt for healthier options such as fruits, vegetables, and water.

Brush and Floss Regularly

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent dental problems. Brush twice a day and floss at least once daily to remove plaque and food debris that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Visit Your Shoreline Dentist Regularly

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help detect and prevent dental problems from worsening. Schedule an appointment with our Shoreline dentist for a check-up and cleaning before summer activities.

Protect Your Lips

Lips can also get sunburned during summer activities, leading to dryness, cracking, and skin cancer. Use a lip balm with at least SPF 15 to protect your lips from the sun's harmful rays.

Avoid Chewing on Ice or Hard Objects

Chewing on ice or hard objects can damage your teeth and even cause them to crack or break. Avoid chewing on anything that's not food; if you must chew on ice, let it melt in your mouth first.

Don't Use Your Teeth as Tools

Using your teeth to open bottles or packages can damage your teeth and even cause them to break. Use scissors or other tools instead.

Don't Forget to Pack Your Oral Hygiene Kit

Don't forget to pack your oral hygiene kit when heading out for summer activities. Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash to maintain good oral hygiene even when away from home.

Conclusion

If you need guidance on choosing the right mouthguard, contact our office today!