Whether you’re a seasoned rugby player, a weekend hockey enthusiast, or enjoy the thrill of martial arts, protecting your smile during sports is crucial. Edinburgh dentists are at the front lines of smile defence, offering custom mouth guards that provide superior protection compared to store-bought options. Let’s debunk some common myths and discover how mouth guards can be your smile’s MVP.
Why Athletes Need Mouth guards
- Tooth Trauma: High-impact sports carry a risk of chipped, cracked, or even knocked-out teeth – injuries that can be painful and costly to fix.
- Jaw Protection: Mouth guards absorb shock, helping to minimise jaw joint injuries or concussions in the event of a blow to the face.
- Soft Tissue Defence: They shield lips, gums, and inner cheeks from lacerations caused by braces or teeth during impact.
- Prevention Pays Off: A custom mouth guard is a small investment compared to the potential cost and discomfort of emergency dental treatment.
Myth-Busting Time
- “Only for Contact Sports”: Even “non-contact” sports like basketball, cycling, or gymnastics carry a risk of falls or collisions that can damage teeth.
- “Store-Bought is Fine”: “Boil and bite” mouth guards offer inadequate fit and protection. They can be bulky and uncomfortable, hindering breathing and speech.
- “Kids Don’t Need Them”: Children and teens are especially vulnerable as their mouths are still developing. Sports injuries are a leading cause of dental trauma in young people.
- “A Mouth guard Will Ruin My Performance”: A well-made custom guard allows for easy breathing, clear speech, and won’t affect your game.
Custom Mouth guards: The Gold Standard
Edinburgh dentists create the ultimate protection:
- Perfect Fit: Impressions of your teeth ensure a snug, comfortable fit that won’t easily dislodge during play.
- Optimal Thickness: Customised to your sport, providing the right level of impact absorption where it’s needed most.
- Comfort & Confidence: Breathability and freedom of speech let you focus on your game, not your mouth guard.
- Durability: High-quality materials withstand the rigors of your sport and last longer than over-the-counter alternatives.
- Personalisation: Choose your team colours or add your name for a unique touch.
Beyond the Game: Mouth guards Matter
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): A custom night guard can protect teeth from the wear and tear caused by night-time clenching.
- TMJ Disorders: Properly designed mouth guards may alleviate some symptoms of jaw joint problems.
The Role of Edinburgh Dentists
Your dentist in Edinburgh is your partner in smile protection:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: They’ll assess your sport and any existing dental concerns to design the ideal mouth guard.
- Proper Care & Maintenance: Guidance on cleaning, storage, and when to replace your mouth guard for optimal protection.
- Emergency Ready: In the unfortunate event of a dental injury, your emergency dentist in Edinburgh is equipped to provide urgent care.
Resources for Athletes
- Sports Governing Bodies: Many sports organisations in Edinburgh may have specific mouthguard requirements or recommendations.
- Mouthguard Guide – NHS Inform : Provides helpful information and tips for choosing the right type of mouthguard.
Protect Your Winning Smile
Remember, your smile is as valuable an asset as your athletic skills. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Don’t Wait for an Injury: Be proactive and get a custom mouthguard before you step onto the field or court.
- Regular Check-ups: Dental exams help ensure any existing issues won’t be worsened by mouthguard use.
- Insurance Coverage: Some policies may offer partial coverage for custom mouthguards, making them even more accessible.
Edinburgh dentists are ready to help you safeguard your smile. Play hard, smile confidently!
