Sports Mouthguards (Gumshields) in Alwoodley, Leeds
Protect Your Teeth While You Play
At Nursery Lane Dental in Alwoodley, Leeds, we understand the importance of sports mouthguards to protect against injuries. Whether you’re playing rugby, hockey, or another contact sport, a well-fitted gumshield helps protect your teeth, gums and jaw from damage.
What Are Sports Mouthguards?
A sports mouthguard (also called a gumshield or sports guard) is a custom-made device that fits snugly over your teeth and gums. It acts as a cushion, protecting your mouth from impacts. Whether it’s a hit from a ball or another player, a gumshield absorbs the shock, helping to prevent broken teeth, jaw injuries, or even concussions.
Why Should You Get a Custom-Made Mouthguard?
Although boil-and-bite gumshields are available in stores, they don’t offer the same level of protection as a custom-made one. These off-the-shelf options can be uncomfortable, don’t stay in place, and aren’t as effective at safeguarding your teeth and jaw.
Here’s why a custom-made sports gumshield is the better choice:
– Perfect Fit: A custom gumshield is made specifically for your mouth, ensuring it stays in place and feels comfortable. If you have braces or a special dental condition, it will be designed to accommodate that.
– Better Protection: Custom gumshields spread the force of an impact more evenly across your mouth, helping to prevent broken teeth, gum injuries, or jaw fractures. They also help reduce the risk of concussions.
– Comfortable to Wear: Unlike shop-bought options, custom gumshields are designed for comfort. They won’t make it hard to speak or breathe during a game.
– Long-Lasting: Professional gumshields are built to last longer than off-the-shelf ones. They stand up to the wear and tear of sports and offer ongoing protection.
– Choice of Colour: You can choose the colour of your custom gumshield! Whether you want it clear and subtle or a bright team colour, a custom gumshield can reflect your personal style or your team’s colours.
The Dangers of Not Wearing a Gumshield
Dental injuries are among the most common sports injuries. A large American study found that 31% of all dental trauma cases admitted to hospital were due to sports injuries*. Studies have also shown that athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to suffer mouth injuries. The British Dental Association (BDA) strongly recommends the use of gumshields for all contact sports to reduce the risk of dental trauma, and gumshields are compulsory for many sports teams. Even if you’re not on a team, wearing a gumshield when playing recreationally can still protect you from serious injuries. Not wearing a gumshield can lead to:
– Knocked-out or loose teeth
– Chipped or broken teeth
– Jaw or bite problems
– Cuts to the gums, lips, or tongue
These injuries can cause long-term physical, emotional, and financial consequences.
*Gassner, Robert, et al. “Cranio-maxillofacial trauma: a 10 year review of 9543 cases with 21 067 injuries.” Journal of cranio-maxillofacial surgery 31.1 (2003): 51-61.
How Are Custom Sports Gumshields Made?
Getting a sports gumshield at Nursery Lane Dental is a simple process:
– Consultation: We’ll assess your dental health and talk about your sport to make sure we recommend the right type of gumshield for you.
– Impression: We take a detailed impression of your teeth to create a model of your dental arch.
– Gumshield Creation: Skilled dental technicians use this model to craft a gumshield that fits perfectly.
– Fitting: Once your gumshield is ready, we’ll ensure it fits comfortably and make any needed adjustments.
How to Care for Your Gumshield
To keep your sports mouthguard in great shape, follow these care tips:
– Clean it regularly: Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your gumshield after every use.
– Store it safely: Keep it in its protective case when you’re not using it.
– Avoid heat and sunlight: Keep your gumshield away from hot water and bright sunshine. High temperatures can cause it to melt or warp, affecting its fit and effectiveness.
– Replace when needed: Over time, your teeth may shift, so it’s important to get your gumshield replaced regularly to ensure a proper fit.
Conclusion: Protect Your Teeth with a Custom Sports Gumshield
At Nursery Lane Dental in Alwoodley, Leeds, we are committed to helping you keep your smile safe, no matter what sport you do. A custom sports gumshield is the best way to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw from injuries.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—book an appointment with us today to get fitted for a gumshield that will keep you safe while you play.