Cosmetic Dentistry - Mouthguards

Phoenix, Scottsdale and Payson, AZ.

You may have heard of mouthguards being worn by football players. But did you know that many injuries to the teeth and mouth occur during other sports as well? The National Youth Sports Association estimates that nearly 5 million teeth will be knocked out in sports-related injuries every year. These teeth can be expensive to replace. During the lifetime, one may need to replace or repair a damaged tooth 3 or 4 times, costing thousands of dollars.

The benefits of mouthguards have been well documented. While football players incur an average of 7% oral injuries, basketball-related oral injuries (where mouthguards are not typically worn), average 35%.

Mouthguards are recommended for most sports, especially:

• Soccer
• Volleyball
• Baseball
• Hockey
• Skateboarding
• Martial arts
• Boxing

Different Types of Mouthguards

Boil and Bite Mouthguards: These can be purchased at a drug store. They are warmed and form-fitted in the mouth. They can be somewhat effective and are less expensive than custom mouthguards. They can make it difficult to breathe while playing sports.

Custom-Fitted Dentist-Fabricated Mouthguards: These are made here in our office. Studies have shown these mouthguards to be much more effective in preventing injuries. An impression of the teeth is taken and they are custom molded to the teeth.

Dr. Chris Winterholler and Dr. Patrice Winterholler join the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics in recommending custom-fitted mouthguards for children to reduce injury.

You can read more at Pure Power Mouthguard, Nightguards and Snoreguards.

To learn more about mouthguards and whether they might benefit you or your family, please contact our cosmetic dentistry office for a free consultation. We serve the areas of Scottsdale, Phoenix and Payson, Arizona.