There are many different mouth guard options available. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Stock mouth guards are widely available and also the most inexpensive option. The guard slips into your mouth and you are ready to play. Unfortunately, many athletes complain that stock mouth guards sometimes make it hard to breathe and never seem to give a truly firm fit.

Boil-and-bite mouth guards usually cost a little bit more than stock mouth guards. They are made from a material that softens when heated and then hardens again once it cools. These mouth guards do offer a little bit more of a custom fit. To use them you simply soak the mouth guard in boiling water for a few minutes, allow it to cool for a moment, then bite down hard on it. The material molds to the general shape of your teeth. When it hardens, you are ready to play. One of the more common complaints with boil-and-bite mouth guards is that they can feel bulky in the mouth.

Custom mouth guards are top-of-the-line mouth guards, offering a custom fit and protection. Technology continues to advance in custom mouth guard materials and techniques.

Vacuum-fitted mouth guards use a moldable thermoplastic material to conform to your teeth. These pieces tend to last around a year. Pressure-laminated mouth guards are a relatively newer product with a lifespan of around two years. Many athletes prefer them over vacuum-molded mouth guards for fit and comfort.

Dr. Joseph Szymczak can help you decide on the mouth guard that’s right for you. Call us today to set an appointment to get your mouth guard. Our number is 616-453-0002.

The post Different Mouth Guard Options first appeared on MI Roots Family Dental.

Tooth fractures and having a tooth knocked out are two of the more common dental emergencies. It’s estimated that each year over 20,000 teeth are knocked out due to contact sports. The American Dental Association recommends that athletes participating in contact sports be fitted for a custom mouth guard.

There are two types of custom mouth guard materials for athletes to choose from.

Vacuum-fitted mouth guards use a moldable thermoplastic material to conform to your teeth. The mouth guard is then trimmed and polished for comfort. These mouth guards tend to last around a year.

Pressure-laminated mouth guards are a relatively newer product. These pieces are molded using multiple layers. Many athletes prefer them over vacuum-molded mouth guards for fit and comfort. Pressure-laminated pieces have an average lifespan of around two years.

Your dentist can help you decide what type of mouth guard is right for you.

If you have any questions about custom mouth guards or if you would like to be fitted for one, please feel free to call us at 616-453-0002 to schedule an appointment.

The post Being Fitted for a Custom Mouth Guard first appeared on MI Roots Family Dental.