Mouthguards
Sport is good for your health! If this statement is true, and given that the benefits of physical activity are numerous and well documented, we must not overlook the risks associated with it, particularly for the mouth and teeth. Certain sports, especially those with a high potential for impact or collision, can cause damage, which is why it is important to protect yourself properly. That's why at Clinique Poirier, your Valleyfield dentists offer custom-made mouthguards designed for a wide range of sports.
MOUTHGUARDS: WHEN TO WEAR THEM?
Many sports involve the risk of impact to the jaw or blows to the mouth or face. This risk is increased in combat sports (wrestling, boxing, certain martial arts) or contact sports (football, hockey, soccer, basketball, etc.). Other non-contact sports such as gymnastics, skiing, snowboarding, inline skating, and mountain biking also carry their share of risks.
To limit potential injuries to the teeth, jaws, lips, tongue, and other tissues in the mouth, it is recommended to wear a mouthguard, which is a device placed in the mouth to cover the teeth and gums.
THE BEST CHOICE FOR OPTIMAL PROTECTION
It is important to choose the right mouthguard from among the options available on the market:
1 – Preformed or ready-to-wear mouthguards: These are inexpensive and easy to find. However, they do not fit the mouth very well, which causes discomfort and does not provide real oral protection.
2 – Universal mouthguards: To use them, simply soften them in boiling water before biting down on them to mold them to your teeth. However, even
though they are smaller than preformed mouthguards, they offer little stability and tend to lose their shape.
3 – Custom-made mouthguards: This type of mouthguard is made in a dental clinic using impressions of the user's teeth. This ensures comfort, stability, and safety.
Dental Services
WHY CHOOSE A CUSTOM-MADE MOUTHGUARD FROM YOUR DENTIST?
- Opt for a custom-made mouthguard
As it is custom-made, it adapts to the specific conditions of the mouth. For example, the mouthguard can be worn with braces. However, it is recommended that removable appliances be removed during use.
- Choose a brightly colored mouthguard
Despite its stability, in the heat of the moment, the mouthguard may be knocked out of the mouth. To ensure it can be easily found, it is therefore recommended that you choose a brightly colored mouthguard with contrasting colors.
- Replace it regularly
Mouthguards should be replaced when they are worn out. They should normally be replaced after each sports season. It is also important to replace mouthguards for children and teenagers regularly to keep up with their growth.
Office hours
Mon – Thu 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Fri 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sat – Sun CLOSED
