“I wear a custom sports guard when I play ice and roller hockey. It feels good, because when I’m talking to the other teammates, the words I say have to be clear, so it is very comfortable when I speak to my teammates. I wear it because if I get hit into the boards and if I go head first, God forbid, my helmet cage could fall off and if I didn’t have my guard in, my teeth could get chipped or they could fall out. I wear it every day I go out on the ice. Well, I have got hurt but not near the face, but I have seen somebody loose their teeth one time.”
From Michael Bambi, Age 11, Center and Assistant Captain for the
Raiders Peewee A (The Rink at
Old York Road)
Just what is a custom sports guard?
A custom sports guard is a revolutionary piece of protective gear that protects the teeth, and jaw from impact and injury during sports activities. These sports guards cushion blows that could cause injury. They can reduce the rate of concussion as well as dental and mandibular injuries.
A non-custom sports guard without any individual fitting provides only minimal protection. If the wearer is rendered unconscious, there is a risk that the sports guard may lodge in the throat potentially causing airway obstruction.
Custom sports guards are designed to address individual needs. Age, type of sports activity, level of competition, previous dental injury, orthodontics, erupting teeth, currently missing teeth are all important considerations that influence the design of the sports guard.
A sports guard should be worn at all times during sports activities, including games as well as practice.
AN ATHLETE IS 60 TIMES MORE LIKELY TO SUSTAIN DAMAGE
TO TEETH WHEN NOT WEARING A SPORTS GUARD.
Does it require a dentist to custom fit?
Yes, a sports guard’s design and fit is extremely important. A custom designed sports guard ensures the correct fit and positioning for maximum safety and protection.
Is there a children’s size?
Yes, a custom sports guard can be designed for people of all ages. There are children from 6 to 60 wearing the custom sports guard.
Will I be able to breathe?
Yes, absolutely! In fact the front airway will allow free airflow and let the wearer talk better than with most sports guards.
During the game I need to be able to communicate with my teammates. How well can I talk?
The perfect custom fit allows you to speak easily.
I have a bad gag reflex. Will I be able to wear a custom sports guard?
The custom fit reduces likelihood of gagging problems.
How long will my custom sports guard last?
Like any other sports gear, a sports guard will wear out, making it less effective. If your sports guard has holes or tears or becomes loose, it can irritate the teeth and oral tissues. Occasionally check your sports guard’s condition and replace as necessary. Schedule regular dental check-ups and bring your sports guard to each dental visit.
Does it require special cleaning?
Nothing special, but the sports guard should be cleaned before and after each use with toothpaste or mouthwash. When not in use, it should be stored in its protective case.
To minimize distortion, avoid high temperatures, such as hot water, hot surfaces or direct sunlight.
Does the sports guard come in different colors?
Custom sports guards are available in a variety of colors and designs.
THE AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION ESTIMATES THAT SPORTS GUARDS PREVENT APPROXIMATELY 200,000 INJURIES EACH YEAR IN HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE FOOTBALL ALONE.
At Pi Dental Center, our prosthodontists are trained to provide the highest quality custom sports guards.
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