Mouthguards provide some much-needed protection to your child’s mouth during contact sports and rigorous activities. You have some options when it comes to this piece of protective equipment, but you should know what type of mouthguard to purchase. There are three types available, and we’re going to take a look at all three of them.
Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
Custom-fitted mouthguards are made specifically for patients by their dentists. They are more expensive than other types of mouthguards, but they offer the best fit and the best protection of all three. If you are interested in this kind of protection, your Vienna, MO dentist can make a fitted mouthguard for your child. An impression of your child’s mouth is made by the dentist and a lab crafts it to fit their mouth perfectly.
Stock Mouthguards
Stock mouthguards come pre-formed and able to use right out of the package. However, since they are made as a one-size-fits-all type they might not fit your child properly. They offer the least amount of protection and are less likely to fit well. However, having some protection is better than none at all. They are relatively inexpensive and they will work well enough if you have no other options available.
Boil-and-Bite
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are similar to stock mouthguards in that they’re less expensive and can be purchased at any sporting goods store, but they offer a better fit and more protection. They need to be softened in boiling water and formed to your child’s teeth, so they do require a little bit of prep work before they can be used.
If you would like more information about choosing the right mouthguard to protect your child’s teeth from injury contact Barnhart Dental today. Dr. Joseph and Dr. John Barnhart will be happy to address any questions or concerns that you might have.
