CUSTOM MOUTHGUARDS
Woodbridge, VA
SPORTS MOUTHGUARD
AN OVERVIEW
In an issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) it was reported that 13 to 39% of all dental injuries are sports-related.
Currently, the National Federation of State High School Associations mandates mouth guards for only four sports: football, ice hockey, lacrosse, and field hockey. However, there is no requirement on the type of mouthguard. Nor are there standards in place for how well a mouthguard should protect teeth.
CUSTOM MOUTHGUARD VS. OVER-THE-COUNTER OPTIONS
While parents want to protect their children’s teeth, they also want to conserve money. Many parents will purchase an inexpensive mouthguard from a sporting good store, thinking this is sufficient protection.
Unfortunately, it’s not.
Commercial mouth guards are inadequate because the fit poorly and offer limited shock absorption. When improperly fitted, they can interfere with breathing and speech. Bulky, uncomfortable mouth guards are less likely to be worn – resulting in no protection for teeth.
Boil-and-bite Mouth Guards Aren’t Much Better
Boil-and-bite mouth guards offer better protection and shock absorption, however they too tend to be bulky and uncomfortable. They often fit poorly around braces and can result in cut lips or cheeks when a player is hit in the mouth.
CUSTOM MOUTH GUARDS OFFER SUPERIOR PROTECTION
A custom made mouthguard from the dentist offers the best protection and comfort. In our Northern Virginia dental office, we routinely create custom mouthguards for athletes. Our mouthguards are available in a variety of colors and can be personalized with the player’s name or team logo.
SPORTS MOUTHGUARD
WHAT TO EXPECT
On your first visit to our Woodbridge dental office, we will make an impression of your teeth. From that impression, we create a stone cast model of the mouth. The mouthguard material is adapted to the model and a vacuum process forms the material to the contours of your teeth, gums and mouth.
On a second visit, Dr. Cavallo will fit the mouthguard and adjust as necessary to achieve a comfortable fit.
When fitted properly, a custom sports mouthguard will stay securely in place, covering all of your teeth. You should be able to breathe and speak normally while wearing a mouthguard.
GET YOUR CUSTOM SPORTS MOUTHGUARD
Looking for a dentist in Woodbridge, VA, hat makes custom mouthguards? Dr. Cavallo has made mouthguards for several girls lacrosse teams in Northern Virginia. Wearing a personalized mouthguard in team colors has increased team unity and emphasized the importance of proper safety while playing and enjoying one’s sport.
Contact us today to learn more about our custom mouthguards. To schedule your visit call (703) 490-5888 or request an appointment online.