AboutJoel S. Teig, DMD, FABOMS Expertise I am a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon and I am available to answer questions related to tooth extractions, implant insertion, facial recontruction, facial and oral tumor removal, TMJ dysfunction and various successful treatments, including surgery if all else fails, and occlusal discrepancy requiring orthognathic or jaw surgery.
Experience Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon practicine for over 20 years. Assistant Clincal Professor and State University School of Dentistry.
Organizations American Dental Association, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Education/Credentials BA
DMD
Awards and Honors National Honor Society (OKU), Philadelphia County Dental Society, Mosby Book Award, Oral Surgery Honors, Summa Cum Laude
Question Dear Dr. Teig,
I'm not sure if I'm writting to the right specialist but I hope you can give some advice. I'm a boxer and have some questions regarding mouthguards. I understand that the best types are the ones custom made by dentists but I also know they can be very expensive. So my questions relate to mouth guards sold in stores:
- Is there anything in particular that I should look for when choosing a mouthguard?
- Is there any particular brand you recommend?
- Are double mouthguards (top and bottom) better than single ones? (as far as protecting yout teeth)
Thank you very much for your time.
Chuck
Answer Chuck - you are correct that custom mouthguards are best, but if you need for financial reasons to purchase a brand in a store, purchase one that requires that you boil it and mold it to your teeth. Make sure that the material is at least 1/4 inch thick. Both uppers and lowers would of course be the best protection, but in boxing get a good upper and that should be sufficient.
