Taking part in combat sports such as jiu-jitsu and kickboxing is a great way to develop self-confidence and increase your health and fitness. However it's also a sure way to damage your teeth and cause a multitude of injuries if you fail to protect yourself properly. Fortunately there is a simple and easy way to prevent things like cracked teeth and punctured lips, and that's by investing in protective gear such as mouthguards. Mouthguards are inserted into the mouth and offer dentist approved protection from impact injuries. The Australian Dental Association recommends custom mouthguards because of their unrivalled protection; however, there are other options available too.
Custom Mouthguards
Whilst custom mouthguards offer the best protection available, they can be quite costly and require you to visit your local dental practice; however, if you're serious about your sport, then this is certainly a worthwhile investment. In order to get your mouthguard made, you'll need to arrange an appointment to see your dentist; they will then be able to take a mould of your mouth using a putty-like substance. You'll be required to bite down hard to allow the putty to make an exact copy of your teeth and gum line. This will then get sent away along with notes regarding your chosen colour to be manufactured.
Boil and Bite
If you can't afford a custom fit mouthguard or you'd like a second spare one just in case you lose it, then a boil and bite will do the trick. All you need to do if place the mouthguard in hot water for a short while, following the instructions, then place it into your mouth and bite down. The putty that makes up the mouthguard will mould itself to your teeth and provide a comfortable fit. These are a great option if you can't afford custom ones; however try to get one that is approved by some sort of governing body like the Australian Dental Association, and be aware that they will not be as snug and are more prone to falling out.
Cleaning
Regardless of which mouthguard you opt for, you should ensure you clean it regularly. After every time you use it, wash it in warm water and scrub gently with a soft bristled toothbrush to remove any debris. If you have an anti-bacterial mouthwash, you can even use that to help clean it. It will kill any residing bacteria and prevent infections within the mouth.
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