Did you know kids’ sports guards can help with more than just broken teeth?

Dentist mentioned they *might* help with concussions, but honestly, I just want to avoid another chipped tooth bill.

Honestly, I used to think mouthguards were just for hockey players missing half their teeth. But after a grandkid lost a front tooth at soccer (not even a rough sport!), I’m all for them now. The concussion thing - jury’s still out, but protecting the teeth is reason enough. Ever tried getting a crown on a wiggly 8-year-old? Not fun, trust me. Do you get the custom ones or stick with boil-and-bite?

Custom all the way for me, but mostly because I had braces and the boil-and-bite ones never fit right - they’d just sort of float around and make me gag. My orthodontist made a mold and it actually stays put. Pricey, but I figure it’s cheaper than dental work after a faceplant on the court.

I totally get why you’d go custom, but honestly, I’m still nervous about the whole process. I keep worrying about the mold stuff making me gag, or it not fitting right even after all that trouble. The boil-and-bite ones seem less scary since you can just redo them at home if they don’t work out. I know they’re not perfect, but for someone anxious like me, the idea of sitting in a chair with goop in my mouth is kinda overwhelming... Anyone else have the same worries?

I totally get being nervous about the molds - I gagged a bit when they did mine, honestly. But I was surprised how fast it was over. Have you ever tried using numbing spray or breathing tricks to help with the gag reflex?

That gag reflex is no joke. I read somewhere that focusing on nasal breathing can help, but honestly, I still struggle with it every time. Haven’t tried numbing spray yet - does it actually make a difference? The whole impression process feels pretty invasive, but at least it’s quick. I’m curious if digital scans are any better for people like us who get the urge to gag...