Prevent Tooth Injury with Sportsguards and Mouthguards
Your teeth are strong and durable, just like you, but they’re not indestructible. That’s why if you engage in any activity that could put them at risk such as grinding your teeth (bruxism) or if you play sports, it’s important to protect them with the help of a custom mouthguard or sportsguard from Dr. Lamberti. In fact, according to a study by the University of Alabama at Birmingham, sports mouthguards have been found to reduce the risk of sports-related dental injuries by 60 times!
What are Mouthguards/Sportsguards?
Mouthguards and sportsguards are custom-made orthotic appliances available from Dr. Lamberti. These devices are designed to fit comfortably in your mouth and protect your teeth from the impact of things like tooth grinding and sports injuries.
According to data from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, it is estimated that upwards of 40 percent of all dental injuries occur while playing sports, and nearly 80 percent of all dental injuries affect at least one of the top two front teeth as well as the tongue and cheeks. In fact, each year, nearly $500 million dollars is spent on replacing teeth lost to this type of injury, and sports related tooth injuries account for over 600,000 emergency room visits annually!
Who is a Good Candidate for Mouthguards/Sportsguards?
Sportsguards and mouthguards are an excellent idea for any patient of any age who grinds their teeth or who participates in sports. Whether it’s a solo activity like rollerblading, weightlifting, or skateboarding, or there is a chance of accidental dental contact such as with football, soccer, wrestling, baseball, volleyball, hockey, basketball, or even lacrosse, any sport has the potential to injure the mouth. Thus, it is important to protect yourself or your child’s teeth while they play.
For young children, losing an adult tooth prematurely can cause a variety of dental problems later in life, including dental crowding. For older patients, losing a permanent tooth can result in the need for costly replacements like dental bridges, dental implants, or dentures. If you or your child fit into any of these categories, speak to Dr. Lamberti about your sportsguard or mouthguard options.
The Benefits of Mouthguards/Sportsguards
There are many benefits to getting a professionally made sportsguard or mouthguard from Dr. Lamberti. Professional models are far better for your smile than those one-size-fits-all boil-and-bite guards available at sporting good stores. Because a custom guard fits perfectly in your individual mouth, it is much more comfortable and more likely to be worn. Furthermore, because there is no excess material, it is less likely to cause secondary injury like boil-and-bite varieties can, and because it is made by your dentist, it can easily accommodate dental work such as crowns, fillings, bridges, and braces as needed, so simply wearing it won’t pose a risk to your smile.