Reduce Sports Injuries With Mouth Guards Fort Myers, FL
A mouthguard is a soft piece of plastic molded to fit over the teeth of the upper jaw. Without one, anyone who participates in physical activity increases their likelihood of an injury to the teeth and soft tissues of the mouth.
A custom-fit mouthguard offers the ideal option to ensure athletes have the proper protection. Custom-fit mouthguards are available at Periodontal & Implant Specialists in Fort Myers and the surrounding area. Call us at (239) 791-7667 to find out why a custom option is the better choice.
The Dangers of Not Using a Mouthguard
For more than half a century, the American Dental Association has recommended the use of a properly-fitted mouthguard to reduce the risk of oral injury while participating in sports. Although mouthguards do not guarantee someone will not sustain an oral injury, athletes become 60 times more likely to get hurt when not wearing one. Hard hits and flying projectiles can all translate into a nightmare for the teeth and jaw.
A custom-fitted mouthguard, worn over the top teeth, protects the teeth from the surrounding soft tissue, absorbs shock, and stabilizes the jaw during a hit. Consider many risks associated with not wearing a mouth guard, including broken or lost teeth, jaw injuries, lacerated lips and cheeks, and damage to orthodontic appliances.
Broken or Lost Teeth
Teeth, although hard, can break. Playing sports without a proper mouthguard leaves the teeth at risk of taking a hard blow without any cushion. This can cause teeth to crack, fracture, or even fall out completely. A cracked or damaged tooth signifies a severe dental emergency.
Jaw Injuries
Jaw injuries commonly occur in sports. Mouthguards prevent or greatly reduce their seriousness by cushioning the jaw and reducing the amount of shock it takes during a hit. Teeth, designed to chew food, can also do damage to the soft tissues of the mouth when left uncovered. A mouthguard can help protect the mouth from punctures or lacerations.
Damage to Orthodontic Appliances
Braces or other orthodontia present a unique challenge that only a custom-fit mouthguard done at a dentist's office can address. This type of mouthguard can be made for the upper and lower teeth. It will not only protect the teeth but also prevent the metal wires and brackets from potentially ripping into the soft tissues of the mouth.
“Hard hits and flying projectiles can all translate into a nightmare for the teeth and jaw.”
Risks of Store-Bought Mouth Guards
Several types of mouth guards are available, today including stock (ready-made) mouth guards, mouth-formed (boil and bite) mouth guards, and custom-made mouth guards. Ideally, patients should have mouth guards made of resilient materials properly fitted to the mouth. This will maximize their high-impact energy absorption while simultaneously reducing any transmitted forces upon impact.
In other words, stock (ready-made) mouth guards or mouth-formed (boil and bite) mouth guards (also known as store-bought mouth guards) tend to be the least effective types of mouth guards. As they cannot be customized to the patient's mouth, they are more prone to slide around in the mouth. These types of mouth guards may cause discomfort and be easier to tear.
“Ideally, patients should have mouth guards made of resilient materials properly fitted to the mouth.”
Long Term Effects of Orofacial Trauma from Sports
Though it is difficult to obtain statistics on sports-related dental injuries, some studies estimate that up to 80% of participants sustain some form of dental injury. While such injuries are not usually life-threatening, they may still be incredibly painful and have long-term effects on one's oral health. As such, it is essential for athletes to seek professional help right away after an accident.
Both contact and non-contact sports carry with them their own sets of risks. Consequently, athletes should always wear mouth guards, no matter what sports they play. The most common types of orofacial trauma include soft tissue injuries, tooth fractures, tooth avulsions, and tooth subluxations – all of which may lead to disastrous oral health problems.
“Both contact and non-contact sports carry with them their own sets of risks.”
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A Better Fit and Design
A mouthguard designed and created in a dental office represents the most durable and protective option. Our dentist will evaluate an athlete's individual needs and customize a mouthguard. This can include providing extra space for growing teeth and jaws — something that just cannot be duplicated with a generic mouthguard.
First, the dentist creates the impression of the teeth that will be used to create the actual mouthguard. From there, the dentist trims, polishes and checks for the proper fit. A properly fitting mouthguard offers a protective, odorless and tasteless option with sufficient thickness in critical areas.
Each mouthguard, tailored to the individual athlete, offers thickness and design to promote comfort and sufficient protection. Thanks to its quality construction, this type of mouthguard can stand up to the rigors of any contact sport. Parents can rest easy knowing they have provided their athlete with the right product to protect their mouth and teeth.
“A mouthguard designed and created in a dental office offers the most durable and protective option.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the dangers of not using a mouthguard?
Q. What makes custom-fitted mouthguards better?
Q. What are the different kinds of mouth guards?
Q. How common are sports-related dental injuries?
People Also Ask
Q. What should I do if I lose teeth?
Q. What methods are available to repair a chipped tooth?
Q. How is a custom mouth guard made?
Q. What is the difference between mouth guards and night guards?
Q. Can dental implants replace missing teeth?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How long do mouth guards last?
A. It depends on how frequently you use it. However, with proper care, a custom-made mouth guard should last several years. Store-bought ones tend to be less durable, as they are not tailored for the mouth. Remember to bring your mouth guard with you to your dental checkups for regular inspection.
Q. How can I get a mouth guard?
A. Call us today, and we will schedule you for an initial consultation. We can begin the process of creating a dental mouth guard once we determine your candidacy. You will need to first undergo a physical examination and get some impressions taken of your mouth.
Q. What are mouth guards made of?
A. The answer varies on a case-by-case basis. Many mouth guards are made of acrylic, while others are made of acetate, vinyl, or rubber. Mouth guards may also be made of a combination of two or more of the above. We combine both hard and soft elements to ensure durability and comfort.
Q. How should I clean my mouth guard?
A. It is essential to clean your mouth guard regularly. First, rinse in warm water to get rid of any plaque and debris. Then, brush the mouth guard with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Do not use toothpaste, as it may be too abrasive. Let the mouth guard air dry completely to prevent rapid bacterial growth, and always store it in a case when not in use.
Q. Can I wear a mouth guard even if I have braces?
A. Yes. We can devise special mouth guards for persons with orthodontic devices or fixed dental work. It is crucial for these patients to adequately protect the mouth, lest the teeth suffer orofacial damage leading to soft tissue injuries.
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Family Dental Terminology
Learn More About Custom Mouthguards for Sports
A custom-fit mouthguard represents a vital piece of protective equipment for any athlete. To schedule an appointment, call us at 239-791-7667 to let Periodontal & Implant Specialists in Fort Myers for more assistance.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
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