EN 
ES Dr. Arabella Michelén
Summer is synonymous with activity: time outdoors, vacations, camps, games, and sports. It’s an ideal time to exercise, enjoy family moments, and participate in recreational activities that strengthen both body and mind. However, many of these activities also pose risks to your oral health, especially when engaging in contact or high-intensity sports.
During this season, dental injuries and fractures increase due to falls, collisions, or unexpected impacts. An effective preventive measure is the use of custom-made mouthguards, designed with 3D digital technology.
A mouthguard can be simply defined as a flexible device that protects the teeth and oral soft tissues from the impact of a blow, likely during outdoor activities or sports. They should be custom-made and worn while engaging in the activity.
The care and hygiene of a mouthguard are very important. Food should not be consumed while wearing it, nor should chewing gum. Drinking water or other liquids to stay hydrated is allowed.
You should have a case to store it when not in use, placing it dry and clean, as moisture promotes the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. It should be cleaned with a soft-bristled toothbrush and cold or lukewarm water—never hot, as this can deform it. Your dentist may recommend effervescent tablets, which are ideal for its care. From time to time, it’s good to leave it exposed to air, since darkness encourages fungal growth.
The mouthguard is a personal item and should not be shared.
You should bring it to every dental visit for inspection. In the case of children and adolescents, especially those with mixed dentition, it needs to be replaced more frequently.
The ideal mouthguards are custom-made for each person, which helps prevent injuries to the soft tissues and occlusion, as each individual’s bite is different. Using an intraoral scan, an exact image of the oral cavity is obtained, allowing the creation of a mouthguard that fits precisely, providing superior comfort and protection compared to generic ones available on the market. The dentist will offer a choice of colors and combinations to match the patient’s personality, as well as a thickness determined based on the patient’s specific characteristics.
A custom-made mouthguard provides the following advantages:
• Fits your mouth perfectly without causing discomfort.
• Facilitates breathing and speaking during exercise.
• Protects teeth, gums, lips, and jaw from impacts.
• Made from high-quality, durable materials.
• Can be personalized with colors and your name or team logo.
They are recommended for children aged five to six who are beginning physical activities and likely have their front permanent teeth in the oral cavity, as well as for adolescents and adults who play sports such as soccer, baseball, basketball, boxing, martial arts, cycling, paddle tennis, and other outdoor activities.
These recreational activities and sports are healthy for people; however, an accident can impact their well-being. Thanks to the advanced technology applied in dentistry, patients today have access to a mouthguard that not only protects their teeth but also preserves their smile and emotional well-being.
Consult your dentist about custom 3D mouthguards and enjoy your activities with complete confidence and protection. Prevention is easier and more effective than cure.