With sports in full swing, Dr. Chapman recommends that his patients in Plainfield, IN wear mouth guards especially if they have braces. As an essential part of many athletes’ sport equipment, mouth guards work to protect player’s teeth and prevent dental injury, but which mouth guard is right for you?

Stock mouth guards are preformed and come ready to wear. They are inexpensive and can be bought at most sporting goods stores in Plainfield, IN. Unfortunately, little can be done to adjust their fit: they are bulky, make breathing and talking difficult and they provide little or no protection. Dr. Chapman does not recommend this type of mouth guard to his patients.

Boil and bite mouth guards can also be bought at many sporting goods stores in Plainfield, IN, and may offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. Boil and bite mouth guards are made from a thermoplastic material so that consumers can do just as the name says; “boil and bite” to ensure a perfect fit. Hot water softens this product and allows consumers to shape the mouth guard around their teeth using finger and tongue pressure. Dr. Chapman however, also does not recommend this to his patients.

Custom-fit mouth guards, although more expensive than the other types, will provide the most comfort and protection. For more information on custom-fitted mouth guards contact Chapman Orthodontics at 317.839.6533.