How to make a mouth guard: complete guide

Hello young boxing fans! Are you ready to talk about something really important but often neglected? Yes, I'm talking about mouth guard. It's not the most glamorous accessory, but believe me, it's a real smile-saver! Today, I'm going to guide you through how to make your own mouthguard. It's a crucial item, especially if you value your teeth as much as your passion for boxing. Ready to become your own DIY boxing gear maker? Put on the gloves and let's get started! Just imagine the pride you'll feel when you tell your friends that you did it! Let's go, follow the guide to a tailor-made, protective mouthguard.

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Why make your own mouthguard?

There's something very personal about making your own mouthguard, isn't there? Firstly, it's economical. Rather than spending a small wealth By going to the dentist or buying top-of-the-range models, you can create your own at a fraction of the cost. Secondly, you can adapt it perfectly to your mouth, which is great for comfort and protection. And, let's face it, it's also a fun little project to do. Let's see how you can turn this little plate into a real bulwark for your quenches! It's also a great way to understand how protective equipment works in combat sports, by getting your hands right into the creation process.

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Choosing the right material

Start by choosing the material. For a DIY mouthguard, you need something soft and pliable but that hardens well to provide good protection. Thermoplastic materials are perfect for this. You can find basic kits in sports shops or even online. They often come with everything you need to get started. Make sure you choose a material that is both non-toxic and approved for direct contact with the mouth. This is crucial to avoid any allergic reactions or health problems. A good material means better protection and more comfort.

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Moulding the mouthguard

Moulding is the fun but tricky part. You boil some water, soak the material in it until it becomes soft, then pop it straight into your mouth! Bite down firmly, but not like a hamburger! You want the mouthguard to mould perfectly to the shape of your teeth and gums for maximum protection. This process needs to be done quickly so that the material doesn't harden before it has taken on the ideal shape. Be prepared to repeat this step a few times to get the perfect mould.

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Mould the mouthguard to your teeth

Once your mouthguard has been softened by the hot water, it is ready to be shaped. Carefully take it out, shake off the excess water without letting it cool too much and carefully place it around your upper teeth. Bite down firmly but gently, imagine you're trying to make a perfect impression without crushing a soft cookie. Also use your fingers to press the mouthguard against your teeth and gums, making sure it fits the shape of your mouth perfectly. This moment is crucial, as a good mould will not only guarantee comfort, but also maximum protection.

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The importance of a good fit

Comfort is all very well, but a good fit is a must if you want to avoid serious injury. A well-fitting mouthguard absorbs shocks, protects against cuts inside the mouth and can even reduce the risk of concussion. A perfect fit also helps keep the mouthguard in place during sudden movements and impacts, which is essential in an intense sport like boxing. Let's take a look at how to ensure that perfect fit to maximise both your comfort and your safety in the ring.

Testing the mouthguard in real-life situations

After the initial adjustment, test it during training. Do a few basic movements, jump around a bit, pretend you're taking a punch. If the mouthguard stays in place and remains comfortable, you've got it. If not, go back to the adjustment stage to fine-tune. This may include reheating and remoulding some of the parts that aren't quite right. The idea is to ensure that the mouthguard allows you to move naturally without distraction or irritation.

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Consider the ideal thickness

The thickness of the mouthguard is a balancing act. Too thin and it won't offer enough protection; too thick and you'll feel like you're biting into an overstuffed sandwich. Find the right balance for effective protection without hindering your breathing or ability to speak. This is essential to ensure that you can continue to communicate clearly with your coach and team-mates during training sessions and matches. Optimum thickness also reduces the risk of biting your tongue or lips, which is a significant bonus.

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Regular maintenance of your mouthguard

A mouthguard is like a pair of sports shoes: you have to take care of it so that it doesn't get damaged. hard. Clean it regularly with cold water and mild soap, and keep it in a ventilated case to keep it fresh and ready for action. A quick check-up from time to time to make sure it's not warped or worn is also a good idea. If you notice any signs of wear or deformation, it may be time to re-mould or even replace the material. Take care of your mouthguard, and it will take care of you in return, protecting you from hard knocks during fights and training sessions.

Conclusion

Well, folks, you're now ready to make your own mouthguard. With a little patience and practice, you'll have a personalised piece of equipment that not only protects your smile, but also shows that you take your sport seriously. And remember, a good mouthguard is like a good coach: it won't let you down when the game gets tough. So have fun making one, and above all, stay safe in it! Think of this project as an integral part of your training: by taking care of your equipment, you're taking care of yourself.

Sources : Punching bag boxing