A mouthguard, also known as a mouthpiece or gumshield, is a protective device that is placed inside the mouth to protect the teeth, gums, and jaws during sports activities. It is commonly used in contact sports such as football, hockey, boxing, and martial arts. Mouthguards are also recommended to individuals who grind their teeth in sleep, suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, or have orthodontic braces.

Mouthguards were first introduced in the early 1900s for use in boxing. The first mouthguard consisted of a piece of cotton wrapped around the boxer’s teeth. Later, dentists started making custom-made mouthguards for their patients. Nowadays, mouthguards are made of lightweight, durable, and hypoallergenic materials such as thermoplastic polymers, silicone, and rubber.

Mouthguards come in various styles and designs, and each type is suitable for different types of activities and needs. The most common types of mouthguards are stock mouthguards, boil-and-bite mouthguards, and custom-made mouthguards.

Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and come in one size that fits all. They are inexpensive but provide limited protection and comfort. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are made of thermoplastic materials that can be heated in boiling water and then molded to fit the wearer’s teeth. They offer better protection and comfort than stock mouthguards but may not fit perfectly for all wearers. Custom-made mouthguards are designed and fitted by a dentist or orthodontist to fit the wearer’s mouth precisely. They are the most expensive but offer the best protection, comfort, and durability.

Mouthguards are essential in preventing dental injuries such as chipped or broken teeth, lip and cheek injuries, and even concussions. They act as a shock absorber that absorbs the impact of a blow to the face and distributes it evenly across the teeth and jaws, reducing the risk of injury. Mouthguards also prevent the upper and lower teeth from clashing together, which can cause tooth fracture or loss, jaw fracture, or even a concussion.

In addition to protecting against dental injuries, mouthguards also offer other benefits. They help reduce jaw clenching and teeth grinding, which can cause tooth wear, enamel erosion, and TMJ disorders. They can also improve breathing and athletic performance by aligning the jaw and improving airway space, reducing snoring and sleep apnea, and increasing oxygen intake.

Mouthguards require proper care and maintenance to ensure their effectiveness and longevity. They should be rinsed with cold water after each use, then brushed with a toothbrush and toothpaste and stored in a clean, ventilated case. Mouthguards should be replaced regularly, depending on the frequency of use and wear and tear. Custom-made mouthguards should be checked and adjusted by a dentist or orthodontist every six months to ensure a proper fit and alignment.

In conclusion, mouthguards are an essential protective device that should be used by anyone engaged in sports activities, as well as by those with bruxism or TMJ disorders. Mouthguards come in various types and designs, and each type offers varying levels of protection, comfort, and durability. Whether you use a stock mouthguard, boil-and-bite mouthguard, or custom-made mouthguard, it is crucial to wear and care for it properly to reap its full benefits in protecting your teeth and jaws from injury and improving your oral and overall health.

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