Mouth guards and gum shields are protective devices worn over the teeth and gums to help prevent injuries during sports or other physical activities. They are made from materials that are strong and durable enough to withstand impacts and absorb shock, reducing the risk of dental and oral injuries.
If you or someone you know participates in sports or other activities that involve physical contact, it's important to understand the benefits of wearing mouth guards and gum shields. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about these protective devices, including their types, benefits, and how to choose the right one.
These are pre-formed, ready-to-wear mouth guards that can be purchased from most sports stores. They are inexpensive but provide minimal protection and are often uncomfortable to wear.
Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards
These are mouth guards that can be molded to fit your teeth and gums by boiling them in water and then biting down on them. They offer better protection and comfort than stock mouth guards.
Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards
These are mouth guards that are custom-made by a dentist or orthodontist to fit your teeth and gums perfectly. They provide the best protection and comfort, but are also the most expensive.
Gum Shields
These are similar to mouth guards, but only protect the gums rather than the teeth. They are often used in rugby and other contact sports where gum injuries are common.
Choosing the Right Mouth Guard or Gum Shield
When choosing a mouth guard or gum shield, consider the following factors:
Level of Protection
Choose a mouth guard or gum shield that provides the right level of protection for your sport or activity.
Comfort
Look for a mouth guard or gum shield that is comfortable to wear and doesn't interfere with breathing or speaking.
Fit
Make sure the mouth guard or gum shield fits properly and is not too loose or too tight.
Material
Choose a mouth guard or gum shield made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand impact.
Mouth Guards & Gum Shields FAQ's
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No, they cannot prevent all dental injuries, but they can significantly reduce the risk of dental and oral injuries.
It's recommended to replace your mouth guard or gum shield every six months or as soon as it becomes damaged or worn.
Yes, there are mouth guards and gum shields specifically designed for people with braces or other dental work.
Mouth guards and gum shields are essential protective devices for anyone who participates in sports or other activities that involve physical contact. They help protect the teeth, gums, and mouth from injuries and can even improve athletic performance. There are different types of mouth guards and gum shields available on the market, so it's important to choose the right one based on your needs.
Whether you're a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, wearing a mouth guard or gum shield can make a significant difference in protecting your oral health. Make sure to prioritise your safety by investing in a high-quality mouth guard or gum shield and replace it regularly to ensure its effectiveness. Don't wait until it's too late to protect your teeth and gums. Speak to your dentist or orthodontist about the right mouth guard or gum shield for you and start enjoying the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're taking the necessary precautions to safeguard your oral health.
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From making the initial call with Sarah to treatment I had a fantastic experience.Amazing... atmosphere, perfect for nervous patients like myself! I have worried for years about going to the dentist and “Sophie & Shannon made it all disappear. They were both so patient with me and reassured me throughout the appointment . Taking time to explain everything and what to expect, I never felt pressured or rushed it was exactly what I needed to gain some confidence. I cannot thank all the staff enough and would recommend to anyone who maybe like myself and have worries and concerns.read more
This practice is by far the very best I have been to - ever! ALL the staff are amazing, from the... warmest of welcomes on reception, to the most fantastic and 'state of the art' dental treatment by an experienced, professional and extremely caring dental team. The premises are inviting, relaxing, and absolutely spotless. I've instantly gone from a terrified patient to feeling reassured and happy with my treatment plan - in a very short period of time. I just wish we had found them sooner, and have absolutely no hesitation in recommending them (in fact I do so at every opportunity!) Never before has a dentist extracted my teeth without sedation, but Dr Johan did so with the very minimum of discomfort. I have now regained my smile, and could not be happier - thank you!read more
Fitted a new bridge tooth in a very small space. The attention to detail and care taken was... excellent. Cannot tell it is not a real tooth and matches perfectly..read more
We lived in Canada for 20 years and when we returned to the UK eight years ago we struggled to find... a hygienist as thorough as our Canadian hygienist. Then we found Ramsbottom Dental Clinic and Kelly the hygienist. She is thorough but gentle and a lovely friendly person. The new premises are lovely with a large airy and bright waiting area. The receptionists are great and always make you feel welcome. I thoroughly recommend this dental practice.Lesley Welbourneread more
I started visiting Ramsbottom Dental care a number of years ago when I heard they were good at... working with anxious patients! I have now used three of the dentists there and am a regular on the dental plan; a regular check up amd hygienist clean for not much more than a tenner a month.Today I had a crown undertaken and cannot fault the work. I didn't feel a thing; fast, efficient and pain-free.All of the staff are friendly, helpful and reassuring; appointments at times convenient to me are always available and I would recommend everyone to give them a try.read more
Would definitely recommend this practice to everyone. Staff are lovely, great service and always a... warm welcome 🤗 I have seen Dr Ronette Gooson for Invisilign and can’t fault her. Always greeted with a friendly smile and she’s an excellent orthodontist.read more
Been going to Ronette and Johan for about 15 years now and they’ve always given me the best... treatment and have a lovely personal approach and really talk you through everything. Recently finished my orthodontics treatment with them and they’ve completely transformed my smile. Thank you so much 😊read more
I have been a patient of Ramsbottom Dental Care for a number of years. First impressions are always... important and I am always greeted by a warm and welcoming reception team. The treatment I receive from Johan and Kelly makes me feel at ease and relaxed and I would have no hesitation in recommending them.read more
Went to see Dr Sophie yesterday with my 12 year old daughter who had chipped her front tooth. ... Sophie & her assistant Jo were absolutely lovely & did the most amazing job restoring her tooth to its former beauty with composite bonding. Thank you soooooo much from both me & Olivia. I am so impressed with this dental practice, from my initial call & correspondence with Sarah, up to the appointment itself & would highly recommend.read more
Really clean and friendly environment. Put at ease by the staff who made sure I was comfortable at... all times. Very happy with the dental work done. Lots of little touches in the practice that make it relaxed and a pleasant place to be. An excellent experience all round and top class service.read more
From making the initial call with Sarah to treatment I had a fantastic experience.Amazing atmosphere, perfect for nervous patients like myself! I have worried for years about going to the dentist... and “Sophie & Shannon made it all disappear. They were both so patient with me and reassured me throughout the appointment . Taking time to explain everything and what to expect, I never felt pressured or rushed it was exactly what I needed to gain some confidence. I cannot thank all the staff enough and would recommend to anyone who maybe like myself and have worries and concerns.read more