How to fit a gum shield
A gum shield, also known as a mouthguard, is an essential protective equipment for contact sports such as boxing, rugby, football, and hockey. It helps prevent injuries to your mouth, teeth, and jaw. Fitting the gum shield properly is crucial to ensure maximum protection and comfort.
In this article, we will guide you on how to correctly fit a gum shield so that it provides the best possible protection for your mouth during sports activities.
1. Purchase the Right Size
Before fitting a gum shield, it is important to choose the right size for your mouth. Gum shields usually come in two sizes: youth and adult. Youth sizes are typically suitable for children up to the age of 12, while adult sizes are for teenagers and adults. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult a dental professional if you are unsure about the size.
2. Prepare the Gum Shield
Before fitting, soak the gum shield in warm water for a few seconds. This will make it more flexible and easier to mold to your teeth. Be careful not to use hot water, as it can cause the gum shield to become distorted or damaged.
Proper Way to Fit a Gum Shield
Fitting a gum shield properly is crucial for ensuring proper protection and comfort. Below are the steps to follow for fitting a gum shield:
1. Boil the Gum Shield
Start by submerging the gum shield in boiling water for about 30 seconds. This will make it pliable and easier to mold to your teeth.
2. Let it Cool for a Few Seconds
Carefully remove the gum shield from the boiling water using tongs or a spoon, and let it cool for a few seconds. This will ensure that it is not too hot when you put it in your mouth.
3. Position the Gum Shield
Place the gum shield in your mouth, making sure that the front of the shield aligns with the front of your teeth.
4. Bite Down
Using firm pressure, bite down on the gum shield. Use your fingers to press the shield against your teeth for an even fit.
5. Suck Out Excess Air
Gently suck out any excess air and saliva from the gum shield to ensure a snug fit.
6. Remove and Examine
After about 30 seconds, remove the gum shield from your mouth and examine the fit. The shield should fit securely and cover your upper teeth well.
7. Adjust if Needed
If the fit is not ideal, repeat the fitting process starting from step 1. You can also use a tool to shape the gum shield more precisely.
Following these steps will help guarantee the proper fit of your gum shield, providing optimal protection and comfort during physical activities.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to properly fit a gum shield:
- Start by boiling a pot of water.
- While the water is heating up, carefully read the instructions that came with your gum shield.
- Once the water is boiling, remove it from the heat source and let it cool slightly.
- Hold the gum shield by the edges using tongs or a spoon, and submerge it in the hot water for the amount of time specified in the instructions.
- After the specified time has passed, carefully remove the gum shield from the hot water and let it cool for a few seconds to avoid burning your mouth.
- Place the gum shield in your mouth and press it firmly against your teeth. Use your fingers to shape the shield around your teeth and gums. Be sure to do this step quickly as the gum shield will start to harden.
- Bite down gently on the gum shield to mold it even more to your teeth and gums.
- Remove the gum shield from your mouth and rinse it under cold water to set the shape.
- Check that the gum shield fits snugly against your teeth and gums. If there are any rough or uncomfortable edges, carefully trim them with a pair of scissors.
- Once you are satisfied with the fit, follow any additional instructions from the manual regarding the storage and care of your gum shield.
Remember to regularly inspect your gum shield for wear and tear, and replace it if necessary to ensure maximum protection for your teeth and mouth.
Benefits of Using a Well-fitted Gum Shield
All athletes, regardless of their sport, should prioritize their safety and well-being. One essential piece of protective equipment that is often underestimated is a gum shield, also known as a mouthguard. A well-fitted gum shield can provide numerous benefits and is crucial for protecting your teeth and mouth during physical activity.
1. Dental Protection: One of the primary benefits of using a gum shield is the protection it provides to your teeth and mouth. During contact sports or activities with a risk of impact, such as boxing, rugby, or martial arts, a blow to the mouth can cause serious dental injuries, including broken teeth, chipped teeth, or even complete tooth loss. A well-fitted gum shield acts as a cushion, absorbing the impact and distributing the force to minimize the risk of dental damage.
2. Prevents Soft Tissue Injuries: In addition to safeguarding your teeth, a well-fitted gum shield also helps prevent soft tissue injuries to your lips, gums, and cheeks. When an impact occurs, the gum shield acts as a barrier, reducing the chance of lacerations, bruising, or cuts inside your mouth. By using a gum shield, you not only protect your teeth but also reduce the likelihood of a painful soft tissue injury.
3. Reduces Concussion Risk: Recent studies have shown that wearing a well-fitted gum shield can also help reduce the risk of concussions. Although a gum shield does not prevent concussions entirely, it can absorb some of the impact forces that would otherwise be transferred to the jaw and head. This cushioning effect helps to lower the risk of concussion and other head injuries during high-impact sports.
4. Enhanced Performance: A well-fitted gum shield does more than just protect you physically – it can also improve your performance. By providing a secure and comfortable fit, a gum shield allows athletes to focus on their sport without the distraction of a poorly fitted or uncomfortable mouthguard. When you are confident that your teeth and mouth are protected, you can fully commit to your movements and perform at your best.
5. Mental Confidence: Lastly, using a well-fitted gum shield can give you a mental edge. Knowing that you have taken all the necessary steps to protect yourself can boost your confidence and allow you to fully immerse yourself in the game. This aspect of mental confidence is essential in high-pressure situations where split-second decisions and actions determine the outcome of the game or competition.
In conclusion, investing in a well-fitted gum shield is a small yet incredibly impactful decision for athletes of all levels. By providing dental protection, preventing soft tissue injuries, reducing concussion risk, enhancing performance, and boosting mental confidence, a gum shield can increase safety and overall athletic performance.
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