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- Jun 22, 2017
Mouthguards are becoming more and more popular thanks to contact sports. While this is one of the main reasons why someone wouldpurchase a mouthguard, there are many different reasons why you would need one.
For many mouthguard users, they don’t always do their research to find out what would be the best mouthguard for their needs. This is where boil and bite mouthguards come in. A cheap option that many people use when they need a mouthguard.
So, are boil and bite mouthguards a bad idea? In this article, we’ll explore what boil and bite mouthguards are and why they’re not the brightest idea for your everyday or sporting use.
What is a boil and bite mouthguard?
A boil and bite mouthguard is usually bought from a supermarket or chemist. It’s a cheap alternative to other mouthguards, which is why it is so popular. To mould the mouthguard all you have to do is boil it in a pot of water until the plastic softens enough to be moulded to your mouth and teeth. This is done by simply biting down with the soft mouthguard in your mouth. After that, you let it cool and there’s your mouthguard!
Is a boil and bite mouthguard good for contact sports?
In short, no. While boil and bite mouthguards may help soften the blow a bit they are not designed or made in such as way as to provide enough protection if you take a hit to the mouth. Wearers often find them to be extremely uncomfortable to wear and in some cases won’t wear them at all. Common injuries while wearing boil and bite mouthguards include:
- Cut lips and gums
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Teeth that are knocked out
- Broken jaws
Can injuries be avoided when wearing a proper mouthguard?
Not all mouth injuries can be avoided however, a “proper” mouthguard will help reduce the damage. The point of a mouthguard is to absorb the shock that comes with a hit to the mouth as well as protecting teeth from damage. Cheap mouthguards are usually made from hard plastic that is uncomfortable to wear while playing sports as they don’t fit your mouth properly, even if you have used the boil and bite method.
What is a “proper” mouthguard?
A “proper” mouthguard is a mouthguard made and fitted by a dentist or specially trained technician. If you are considering a mouthguard then it is strongly advised that you seek professional help. The reason for this is your dentist will make sure you have a superior guard that fits perfectly and will protect your teeth and mouth better than anything else on the market. They are slightly more expensive than cheaper supermarket versions but are well worth the investment.
My Kids Only Have Baby Teeth, They Don’t Need a Mouthguard Yet
This is a very common mistake that parents make. Just because your child has baby teeth doesn’t mean you can risk any potential mouth damage. Baby teeth pave the way for second teeth, and any major damage done to baby teeth can cause problems well into adulthood. If you are concerned about your child’s teeth always make sure you speak to your dentist.
Where Can I Get a Mouthguard?
At Aesthetic Dentures, we specialise in making mouthguards. Our team are highly trained to make the best mouthguard possible. Our team work with you to ensure your new guard is comfortable to wear and fits to perfection.
If you would like more information about having a mouthguard made or have damage to teeth caused by playing sport,contact Aesthetic Dentures. Our dentists can get you back to a perfect smile before you know it.
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Customer Stories
5.0
Elias is fantastic. His work is amazing. And his approach to us as a customer was extremely comforting. He has given my husband a whole new meaning to his self esteem and he actually loves to smile. All thanks to Elias amazing work. Read more
Sarah-Marie Urzino
A year ago
5.0
My daughter got her mouthguard moulded and made through these guys, the process was amazing and they made my daughter feel at ease. She is so happy with her new sparklie mouthguard with her name on it! I Highly recommend Elias and Tamica. Thank you very much Read more
Karen Halse
A year ago
5.0
Elias went above and beyond to replace my Denture after an accident over New year. Super friendly service and above all the most comfortable denture I have ever had. Highly recommend!! Thankyou. Read more
Mark Halliday
A year ago
5.0
From my first phone call to Tomika explaining my situation with my teeth and how bad they were and that I didn't know where to start, to having my first free appointment with Elias was the best thing I have ever done. Tomika is very easy to talk to, friendly and professional. Elias, well he is great, told me exactly what he could achieve, the cost and the timeframe and he was spot on. Read more
Kim Lennon
6 months ago
5.0
Elias prepared a full set of dentures for my 90 year old mother. The service he provided was exceptional, using current technology effectively to create a set of dentures which were far superior to what she had previously had. Elias also made it very clear that my mother could go back at any time if minor adjustments were required. He gives meticulous attention to detail. Tamika ensures that appointments run to time. Read more
Janelle Horton
10 months ago
5.0
Loving my new dentures, professional friendly service 5 stars all round. Would highly recommend this practice. Thanks guys.. Read more
Deidre Bell
6 months ago
5.0
State of the art technology and skills and ability to match. I went to the clinic highly anxious ( my previous dental encounter at another clinic resulted in a panic attack and blacking out twice whilst in the chair) due to the poor integrity of my teeth, as a direct result of a health condition I had lost the majority of my teeth and the remaining were nothing short of a train wreck. Elias treated me the utmost respect and kindness. Read more
Meghan Stafford
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Faqs
A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth. At Aesthetic Dental and Denture Clinic, we offer two types of denture, complete and partial. Complete dentures are necessary when all your natural teeth are missing. A partial denture is used when some natural teeth remain. If you are having extractions, we can also provide you with an immediate denture. This is often an interim denture so you can avoid the embarrassment of being without teeth.
A denture usually lasts between five and seven years. Time and natural changes in the mouth will affect the fit and wear patterns of your denture. If your denture is worn and doesn’t fit as well as it used to, it may require a repair or reline. Having your denture checked every two years will help to ensure a proper fit and by following your denture care instructions, you’ll extend the life of your replacement teeth.
Dentures don’t last forever. Dentures usually last between 5 to 7 years and need to be relined every 1 to 2 years. Over time dentures become worn and don’t fit as well, so it’s important to reline them regularly. The better you follow your denture care instructions, the longer your replacement teeth will last.
It is advised that you visit your dentist every 6 months for a check-up and clean. This will help to prevent any major oral health issues from occurring. However, if you have bad breath, bleeding gums, discoloured teeth, cracked or chipped teeth, tooth or jaw pain it is advised to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
At Aesthetic Dental and Denture Clinic, we know attending the dentist can be difficult for nervous and anxious patients. We offer a number of options to help make your next visit as calm and stress-free as possible. Contact us today and a friendly dental technician will be able to give you all the options available.
