1292 Main St., Unit #2, Windsor, CO 80550
Whether you or your child is playing soccer, hockey, or participating in karate, having the right equipment and gear is essential to protect your body from harm. Besides bringing along what's needed to play the game, other items such as a football helmet, catcher's mask, or a pair of shin guards are necessary to prevent injuries. With millions of dental and facial injuries due to sports-related trauma occurring each year, remember that wearing a mouthguard is essential to protect your smile!
Although getting injured is a risk in every sport or recreational activity, contact sports where players tackle each other, hit the ground hard, or get struck by objects like bats, balls, or sticks are most often responsible for oral trauma.
While it's impossible to eliminate the risk of oral trauma completely, a mouthguard provides added protection to reduce the likelihood and severity of injuries. Studies show that mouthguards prevent more than 200,000 injuries per year. By wearing a mouthguard during practice and at game time, you can safeguard your beautiful smile!
Mouthguards are removable appliances designed to comfortably fit over your teeth. Made from biologically safe plastic, they offer an extra layer of protection against sports-related injuries.
Given that children and teens are incredibly active in sports, they are at an increased risk for oral trauma. Studies show that a high percentage of dental injuries in school-age children occur while playing sports. It's essential to consult with our office before the season starts and discuss which type of mouthguard offers you or your child the best protection.
Since 80% of traumatic dental injuries occur to the top front teeth, most mouthguards are designed to cover the maxillary teeth. However, in some cases, they may be fabricated to include the lower teeth as well. It all depends on your individual needs. For those wearing braces, the potential for additional injuries from brackets, wires, and broken appliances due to an accidental blow to the face is significant. You will need a mouthguard that's designed to fit over orthodontic appliances.
While there are plenty of over-the-counter products available, not all mouthguards are equal. When choosing a mouthguard, it's essential to speak with our knowledgeable team at Valstad Dental to determine which type provides optimal protection. We'll advise you on all the available options, including stock mouthguards, boil and bite mouthguards, and custom-fabricated mouthguards.
Besides limiting the risk of oral injury, a well-fitted mouthguard should be comfortable to wear, not interfere with speech, or restrict breathing. It must also be strong, durable, and easy to maintain. For all these reasons, a custom-fabricated sports mouthguard from Valstad Dental is often the wisest investment.
At Valstad Dental, we are dedicated to helping you and your family maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. If you or your child plays sports or participates in recreational activities that pose a risk for oral injuries, investing in a custom mouthguard is one of the best decisions you can make to safeguard your dental health. Don't hesitate to reach out to our friendly team and schedule an appointment for personalized guidance on choosing the best mouthguard to suit your needs.
Keep smiling, and let us help you stay safe while playing sports!
Dr. Valstad has taken advanced courses on sleep apnea disorder and is up to date on the latest trends in treatment and technology.
We’ve completed over 100 implant cases using advanced technology that ensures treatment is more precise and faster than ever before.
CEREC® enables us to take digital impressions and mill a new restoration in our office with seldom the need for a second visit.
