Toothguards

Mouthguards - the the right choice in the Sportano shopEveryone who has watched a combat sports competition at least once has noticed that the competitors wear mouthguards. This is a key piece of equipment that protects not only the teeth, but also the gums, tongue and the inner part of the cheeks from damage. High tempo, dynamic actions and unexpected blows all increase the risk of oral injuries. The mouthguard acts as a shock absorber, distributing the force of the blow and protecting the sensitive areas. At Sportano, we offer high-quality mouthguards from brands such as Everlast, Opro, SAFEJAWZ, DBX BUSHIDO, LEONE 1947 or Shock Doctor.Types of mouthguards: individual vs universalMouthguards are one of the most important pieces of equipment in combat sports, serving to protect teeth, gums and tongue from possible injury. Because of their crucial role, there are different types of them available on the market, adapted to the needs and requirements of athletes. The main difference among the protectors is their type: universal and individual. Universal protectors are ready-to-use models that can be purchased in many sports shops. They come in different sizes and are usually manufactured to fit as many people as possible. This makes them relatively cheap and readily available. However, their main disadvantage is that they rarely offer a perfect fit. They can shift, which is not only uncomfortable, but can also reduce the effectiveness of the protection. Customised protectors, on the other hand, are those that are specifically made to measure for a particular person. In order to make them, it is necessary to take an impression of the athlete's dentition, which is then used to create a perfectly fitting mouthguard. As a result, such a protector not only protects better, but is also much more comfortable to wear. Of course, such precision comes at a price, so custom protectors tend to be more expensive than their universal counterparts.Protector materials and technologyThe manufacturing technology and materials used to create mouthguards have evolved considerably over the years. Today's protectors are the result of advanced research and innovation aimed at providing maximum protection while ensuring comfort. The primary material used in the manufacture of most protectors is thermoplastic. This is characterised by its ability to soften when exposed to heat, allowing the protector to be customised to the user's dentition. Once the plastic cools, it solidifies, retaining its adopted shape and providing excellent protection against injury. Technological innovations in recent years have made it possible to combine different materials in a single product. Some advanced protectors consist of several layers - for example, a gel inner layer for better comfort and fit and a harder outer layer for better impact protection. Other technologies include adding anti-bacterial materials or increasing air conductivity to prevent the protector from getting too hot during intense training. Ultimately, choosing the right materials and manufacturing technology depends on a number of factors, including the individual needs and requirements of the athlete, the type of sport they play, and their budget. However, whatever the choice, the key is to ensure that the protector effectively protects against injury and is comfortable to wear.Fitting process: how to achieve the perfect fit fit?The perfect fit of a mouthguard is the key to effective protection and wearing comfort. An ill-fitting mouthguard can not only be uncomfortable, but also increase the risk of injury. Therefore, it is important to take sufficient time to fit the mouthguard to your individual needs. For all-purpose protectors, the fitting process usually involves placing the protector in hot water for a set period of time, which makes it soft and malleable. The mouthguard is then placed in the mouth and bitten to conform to the shape of the teeth and gums. Once the mouthguard has reached the correct shape, it is cooled so that it can retain its new shape. For customised protectors, the fitting process is more complicated and requires the help of a specialist. First, a dentist or dental technician takes an accurate impression of the patient's teeth. The impression is then used to create a mouthguard that perfectly fits the athlete's teeth. It is important to remember that even the best-fitting mouthguard can wear out over time or its shape may change slightly, so checking the fit regularly is essential.The importance of regular replacement and maintenance of the mouthguardTooth guards are subjected to a lot of pressure and stress during training and competition. They can be subjected to impacts, stretching or extreme temperatures, which leads to gradual wear and tear. It is therefore important to take care of their condition and replace them regularly. Even if a protector does not look damaged, it may no longer offer the same protection as at the beginning. Microscopic cracks or damage can affect its strength and ability to dissipate the force of an impact. Experts recommend replacing the protector at least once a year, although athletes who train intensively should do so more often. In addition to regular replacement, proper maintenance of the protector is also important. It should be washed after each use, using mild soap and cool water. It should then be dried thoroughly before storing in an airy container. Avoiding hot temperatures is key, as these can distort the protector or affect its material. By remembering to maintain and replace it regularly, you can ensure that your protector will protect you effectively for a long time, while ensuring that it is comfortable to wear.