Are you or your child an athlete involved in contact sports? The risk of serious dental injuries, ranging from chipped teeth to fractured jaws, is a constant concern. Many athletes underestimate the importance of proper mouth protection, leading to preventable trauma that can have long-term consequences for their health and performance. This comprehensive guide will explore why a professional fitting is crucial and provide you with the knowledge needed to select the best mouthguard fitting clinic.
Understanding the Importance of Professional Mouthguard Fitting
A standard over-the-counter mouthguard, often referred to as a ‘boil-and-bite’ mouthguard, may seem like a convenient solution. However, these typically offer inadequate protection and can even cause more harm than good if not fitted correctly. They are made of a soft material that expands when heated in hot water and shrinks when cooled around the teeth. Poorly fitted boil-and-bite guards can cause excessive pressure points, irritate gums, and sometimes contribute to tooth movement or damage. Proper fitting by a qualified professional is paramount for optimal protection.
Custom-made mouthguards, created through impressions and digital scanning, provide a significantly superior fit and level of protection. These guards are precisely molded to the individual’s teeth and jaw, distributing impact forces more effectively and minimizing the risk of injury. The difference in protective capability is substantial and should not be underestimated. Studies have shown that athletes wearing professionally fitted mouthguards experience a dramatically reduced risk of dental trauma – around 70-80 percent less, according to research published by the American Dental Association.
Types of Mouthguard Fitting Clinics & Professionals
Several types of professionals can fit mouthguards for sports. Each has unique expertise and approaches:
- Dentists: General dentists often have experience fitting mouthguards, particularly for younger athletes with orthodontic appliances or those needing basic protection. They can offer a good balance of cost and effectiveness.
- Orthodontists: Orthodontists specialize in teeth alignment and frequently fit custom mouthguards designed to protect braces during sports activities. Their precision is invaluable when dealing with dental work.
- Sports Dentists: These dentists have specialized training in the fitting and care of sports-related oral appliances, including mouthguards. They possess a deep understanding of the biomechanics involved in impact protection.
- Specialized Mouthguard Labs: Many labs offer fitting services alongside their manufacturing capabilities. This provides a streamlined process for obtaining a custom fit.
Comparing Mouthguard Materials
The material used for your mouthguard significantly impacts its performance and comfort. Here’s a breakdown of common materials:
| Material | Pros | Cons | Typical Cost (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) – Boil-and-Bite | Affordable, readily available | Less precise fit, potential for discomfort, lower impact protection | $30 – $60 |
| Polyurethane – Custom Fitted | Superior fit and comfort, excellent impact absorption, durable | More expensive than EVA | $120 – $350 |
| Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) – Custom Fitted | Increased flexibility, improved comfort, more resistant to tearing | Generally more expensive than traditional polyurethane. | $180 – $400 |
Remember that higher quality materials translate directly into enhanced protection. Don’t compromise on this crucial element.
Finding the Right Mouthguard Fitting Clinic: A Step-by-Step Guide
Selecting a qualified mouthguard fitting clinic involves careful consideration. Follow these steps to ensure you’re making the right choice:
Step 1: Research & Recommendations
Start by asking your dentist or coach for recommendations. Online reviews on platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, and Facebook can provide valuable insights into the experiences of other athletes and their families. Look for clinics with consistently positive feedback regarding fit quality and customer service.
Step 2: Check Qualifications & Experience
Verify the professional’s qualifications. Ideally, they should be a dentist, orthodontist, or sports dentisthave specialized training in mouthguard fitting. Ask about their experience fitting mouthguards for athletes in your specific sport. A clinician with relevant sport-specific knowledge is invaluable.
Step 3: Assess the Fitting Process
Inquire about the clinic’s fitting process. A thorough fitting should involve a detailed consultation, taking into account your sport, dental history, and any existing orthodontic appliances. They should use digital scanning or impressions to create an accurate model of your mouth. The fitting process itself should be comfortable and well-explained.
Step 4: Evaluate the Mouthguard Design & Features
Discuss the design features of the mouthguard with the professional. Consider factors like comfort, breathability, and ease of cleaning. Ask about any protective elements incorporated into the design – such as reinforced corners or impact zones – that could provide added security.
Real-World Examples: Case Studies & Statistics
Let’s examine some real-world scenarios to illustrate the importance of professional mouthguard fitting:
Case Study 1: The High School Football Player
A high school football player, Mark, used a generic boil-and-bite mouthguard. During a game, he collided with another player and suffered a fractured jaw. An investigation revealed that the poorly fitted mouthguard had contributed to the injury by concentrating impact forces on specific teeth.
Case Study 2: The Hockey Player with Braces
Sarah, a hockey player wearing braces, was fitted with a custom-made mouthguard by an orthodontist. During a game, she collided with the boards and sustained significant damage to her brackets and teeth. The custom fit of her mouthguard absorbed much of the impact, minimizing the damage compared to what would have occurred with a standard boil-and-bite guard.
Statistics & Research
Research consistently demonstrates the effectiveness of professionally fitted mouthguards. The National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) emphasizes that properly fitted mouthguards reduce the risk of dental injuries by as much as 60 to 75 percent, depending on the sport and level of protection.
Conclusion
Investing in a professionally fitted mouthguard is an essential step in protecting your oral health while participating in sports. Don’t settle for a generic boil-and-bite guard – prioritize safety and seek out a qualified professional who can provide you with the best possible protection. Choosing the right mouthguard fitting clinic ensures a precise fit, superior comfort, and significantly reduces the risk of serious dental injuries.
Key Takeaways
- Custom-made mouthguards offer far superior protection compared to boil-and-bite guards.
- A professional fitting is crucial for distributing impact forces effectively.
- Choose a dentist, orthodontist, or sports dentist with specialized training in mouthguard fitting.
- Consider the material type – polyurethane and TPU generally provide better protection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How often should I replace my mouthguard?
A: Mouthguards should be replaced after every 6-8 months of use, or immediately if they become damaged or worn.
Q: Can I fit a mouthguard myself using a boil-and-bite kit?
A: While it may seem convenient, the risk of improper fitting and inadequate protection outweighs the cost savings. Professional fitting is strongly recommended.
Q: Are there any specific mouthguards designed for particular sports?
A: Yes! Mouthguards are often tailored to specific sports like football, hockey, lacrosse, and basketball, considering the types of impacts athletes typically experience.
Q: What should I do if my mouthguard feels uncomfortable?
A: Immediately discontinue use and consult with your dentist or mouthguard fitter to ensure a proper fit.
