What Is A Fang Mouthguard?
If you’ve stepped onto a football field or basketball court lately, you may have noticed players sporting uniquely designed mouthguards featuring plastic fangs or tusks. These are fang mouthguards, also sometimes called vampire mouthguards – protective devices worn by athletes to prevent injury to the teeth, lips, cheeks, and tongue. But unlike your traditional mouthguard, fang guards take on the appearance of ferocious fangs or tusks to add an intimidating look.
Fang mouthguards were first introduced in the early 2000s and have steadily grown in popularity since, especially among youth and high school players wanting to show off their aggressive spirit. The key difference from a regular mouthguard is the upward-jutting plastic fangs or tusks that protrude menacingly from the upper jaw.
These fang mouthguards are customizable with varying designs and colors, but typically made from thermoplastic materials like polyvinyl acetate-ethylene copolymer plastic. The material is heated to soften, then custom-fit to each player’s mouth by imprinting their bite so it stays in place during athletic play. This ensures the fang guard adequately protects the teeth and mouth.
Beyond the aesthetic design, fang mouthguards serve the same protective purpose as regular mouthguards. They act as a cushioning barrier, absorbing impact to prevent injuries like cracked, broken, or knocked-out teeth, cut lips, bitten cheeks or tongue, and concussions from jaw impact. They may also minimize tooth damage from grinding.
Looking to Intimidate Your Opponents This Season? Consider Getting A Fang Mouthguard – Here’s Why You Need One Of These Unique Mouthguards in 2023
If you play a contact sport like football, mixed martial arts, boxing, lacrosse, or hockey, you know that wearing a protective mouthguard is essential equipment. But as an athlete, you also want to gain every possible edge over your opponent – both physically and psychologically. This season, intimidate the competition and protect your teeth by wearing a custom fang mouthguard.
Here are compelling reasons to get fitted for one of these new breed of mouthguards and wear it proudly on the field:
- Create an imposing, ferocious look – Athletic mouthguards with fangs or tusks protruding from your mouth create an undeniably intimidating appearance, making you look savage and ready for battle. Your opponents will no doubt find your vampire mouthguard startling!
- Show your aggressive spirit – Mouthguards with fangs send a clear message that you are fierce, intense, and ready to unleash your inner animal. You’ll gain an psychological edge by displaying your relentless will to win.
- Make a unique style statement – Stand out from the crowd with a custom fang guard in your favorite colors and designs, featuring different types of vampire fangs. Your mouthguard lets you showcase your own personal style.
- Strike fear in the hearts of your opponents – Sports is mental as much as physical. When the competition sees your mouth full of teeth transformed into threatening sabre-like fangs, it’ll surely strike worry and dread in their minds – which may cause them to make mistakes. Turn their fears against them!
- Protect your teeth and mouth – While you’re intimidating the other team, don’t forget that a fang mouthguard first and foremost protects your chompers and lips by absorbing impacts that could cause serious dental injuries and lacerations.
- Prevent concussions – Mouthguards play an important role in preventing concussions resulting from strong jaw impacts during contact sports. Don’t take needless risks with your brain health.
- Portray the intensity of the game – A mouth full of plastic fangs captures the intense, combative nature of sports like football. Your vampire mouthguard lets you display the hard-hitting, competitive spirit players need.
- Make a bold fashion statement – Athletes around the world are donning these edgy, daring fang guards. Get in on the trend and express your own audacious style.
- Intimidate the competition psychologically – The sight of your fangs will make your opponents think twice about challenging you directly. Seeing a mouthguard transformed into a sabre-toothed tiger’s jaws is downright scary! Use their fear against them.
- Stand out as a trendsetter – Be a leader by proudly wearing stylish, eye-catching mouth protection. Your custom vampire fangs mouthguard lets you take a daring new trend to the field.
Your mouthguard is critical protective gear, so why not get one that makes you look ferociously intimidating at the same time? Fang mouthguards give athletes a bold new way to display their competitive edge and fearsome game face – while protecting their pearly whites. With custom designs and vampire inspired touches, these new generation of athletic mouthguards are becoming must-have gear.
So if you’re ready to intimidate the opposition while protecting your teeth, it’s time to get fitted for a custom fang mouthguard this season. Let those realistic-looking sabre fangs be a warning to your opponents that you’re in it to win it!
Intimidating Your Opponents On The Field
If you play competitive sports, you know that gaining every possible advantage over your opponent is key. Beyond physical training and skills, athletes also use psychological techniques to get a leg up on the competition. This season, up your intimidation game on the field by wearing a fang mouthguard featuring fierce-looking teeth.
Mouthguards with plastic vampire fangs or animal tusks are becoming must-have gear for athletes wanting to strike fear in their opponents’ hearts and minds. Here’s how sporting one of these unique mouthguards can give you a psychological edge.
Looking to Intimidate Your Opponents This Season? Consider Getting A Fang Mouthguard – Here’s Why You Need One Of These Unique Mouthguards in 2023
If you want to gain an intimidation advantage on the playing field, it’s time to get fitted for a custom fang mouthguard. Here are compelling reasons to choose one of these edgy mouthguards and use it to unsettle your opponents psychologically:
- Show your ferocious spirit – Turning your mouthguard into a set of lifelike sabre fangs sends a clear message you’re ready for battle. Display your ruthless will to win.
- Distract the other team – Opponents will inevitably gawk at your vampire fangs mouthguard. Capitalize on that distraction to gain an edge.
- Make opponents hesitant to challenge you – Seeing plastic fangs where your teeth should be is downright startling. Use that fear factor to make the other team think twice.
- Unnerve and rattle your competitors – The intimidation factor of facing an athlete sporting realistic animal fangs can mentally throw opponents off their game.
- Gain a psychological advantage – Sports psychology is real. Intimidate the other team mentally and you’ll gain an edge even before physical play starts.
- Strike worry and dread in opponents’ minds – The sight of you transformed into a fanged beast will instill apprehension and anxiety in the other team, which you can use to your advantage.
- Show your daring wild side – Fake fangs showcase your bold, fierce nature and willingness to unleash your inner animal. That unpredictability can intimidate.
- Make opponents hesitant to get physical – Seeing mouthguards turned into sabre-toothed tiger jaws may make competitors reluctant to contact you directly.
- Convey your intensity and competitiveness – Turning equipment into fangs highlights your aggressive spirit and just how seriously you take the game.
- Shake your opponents’ confidence – Seeing a mouth full of realistic plastic sabres is shocking. Use that surprise to undermine the other team’s poise.
Mouthguards featuring animalistic fangs or tusks are no gimmick – these psychological intimidation tools can give athletes a real mental edge over the competition. Here are more reasons you need one of these eye-catching guards in 2023:
- Protect your teeth – A custom fitted fang guard cushions blows and shields your teeth from dental injuries.
- Absorb impacts – Quality mouthguards cushion your lips, gums, cheeks and jaw from traumatic force.
- Reduce concussion risk – Guards protect your jaw and the brain from dangerous collisions and hits to the chin.
- Prevent grinding damage – Clenching fangs instead of your teeth helps stop wear, chipping, and fractures.
- Show off your audacious style – Make a bold fashion statement on the field with your own custom fang mouthguard designs.
- Stand out from the crowd – Vampire-inspired mouthguards let athletes showcase their personal flair and creativity.
- Express competitive passion – Fake teeth transformed into fangs aptly symbolize the intense, combative spirit of sports like football.
- Intimidate opponents – Lifelike custom sabre fangs will undoubtedly strike fear in the hearts of competitors!
- Gain a psychological edge – Use intimidation to get inside your opponents’ heads before real game play even starts.
- Protect your athletic career – Don’t risk debilitating dental injuries or concussions. Smart mouthguard use safeguards your sports future.
Ready to gain an intimidation advantage and protect your mouth this season? Visit your dentist to get custom fitted for a fang mouthguard in your favorite designs. With realistic voracious sabre fangs where your teeth should be, you’ll have opponents shaking in their cleats in no time. Unleash your inner beast!
Protecting Your Teeth During Impact
Looking to intimidate your opponents this season? Consider getting a fang mouthguard – here’s why you need one of these unique mouthguards in 2023.
With contact sports like football, hockey, lacrosse, and more back in full swing, you want to make sure you’re protecting your pearly whites out on the field or rink. A standard mouthguard can prevent dental injuries, but they’re not exactly known for striking fear into the hearts of your adversaries.
Enter the fang mouthguard – this innovative athletic mouthguard gives you the injury protection you need while also letting you flash some ferocious fangs. Intimidating? You bet. Practical? Absolutely.
Here’s a closer look at why every rough and tumble athlete needs a fang mouthguard this season:
Serious Injury Protection
First and foremost, a fang mouthguard provides the same high-level tooth and mouth protection as a traditional mouthguard. Custom-fitted to your teeth, it absorbs shock, prevents dental damage, and reduces your risk of concussion from impacts to the jaw.
Studies show that athletes who wear mouthguards during contact sports have significantly lower rates of lost teeth, chipped teeth, jaw injuries, and cerebral concussions. We’re talking reductions of over 60% compared to athletes going unprotected.
So while the sharp fangs add some flair, fang mouthguards aren’t just about flash – they provide critical protection for rough players in hard-hitting sports.
Makes a Statement
There’s no denying the intimidation factor of lining up across from an opponent flashing a set of pearly white fangs. It makes a bold style statement that says “I’m not afraid of contact and I’m ready to get after it today.”
In sports like football and hockey where big hits can shift momentum and get crowds pumped up, intimidating your opponent gives you an edge right from the starting whistle.
But it’s more than just showmanship – baring your “fangs” builds your own confidence too. Letting your inner beast out and staring down your opponent in the opening faceoff gets your adrenaline pumping for battle.
Customizable Flair
While the fangs are the signature feature, fang mouthguards come in a range of designs to match your playing style and personality.
Flaunt your ferocity with designs like camo fangs, glow-in-the-dark fangs, or realistic fang designs modeled after animals like tigers, alligators, or sabretooth tigers. There are even two-tone and color fade options to coordinate team colors and logos.
Or go completely custom. Many fang mouthguard companies let you choose fang length and shape along with stylizing options like metal studs, inlays, dripping blood effects, and custom art. Express yourself while you protect yourself.
Improved Breathing and Communication
Standard mouthguards aren’t exactly communication-friendly, making it harder to talk and catch your breath during intense game action. But fang mouthguards flip the script.
Fang designs minimize mouthguard material covering your lips and front teeth. This allows for easier breathing, hydration, and shouting audibles and play calls at your team. When split-second timing matters, seamless communication is a must.
Some fang mouthguard models also utilize vented designs and optimal material thickness to increase airflow and oxygenation. Your stamina and endurance will improve as a result.
Mental Toughness and Confidence
Football legend Brian Dawkins attributed fang mouthguards to boosting his mental game, saying the exaggerated fangs made him feel like a warrior ready for battle. And who’s going to mess with a warrior?
By making you look and feel like a force to be reckoned with, fang mouthguards give you an undeniable swagger and intimidation factor that seeps into your mental approach. You feel bold, tenacious, and ready to unleash havoc.
Some players might dismiss fang guards as gimmicky, but they really do put you in the right mindset to play hard, fierce, and fearless. And in many cases, that ruthless confidence gives you an edge over less intimidating opponents.
Fun Self-Expression
Don’t gloss over the fun factor here. Beyond the battlefield intensity, fang mouthguards show off your personality and style.
Athletes love the shocking effect it has on teammates, rivals, and fans when they grin menacingly and bare those sabre-toothed fangs. It’s a chance to show some personality on the field and have fun with your image.
At the end of the day, sports are games, and the unique look and feel of fang mouthguards make them a lot more fun. The boldness also seems to energize team spirit and chemistry.
Get Your Fangs Ready for Battle
Forget plain old mouthguards – if you want proven protection and an intimidating in-game presence, go fang or go home. With custom styles galore, you can build a mouthguard that matches your teeth and projects your fighting spirit.
Already got opponents shaking in their cleats? Good – now flash those fangs and let the battle begin. It’s your time to wreak havoc and have fun doing it. Just don’t take a chomp out of anyone for real…leave that to your inner wolf!
Improving Your Breathing & Performance
As an athlete, proper breathing technique is crucial for optimal performance. It maximizes oxygen intake, improves lung capacity, and helps regulate heart rate. For contact sports like football, hockey, and martial arts, breathing can become restricted by bulky mouthguards. This is where fang mouthguards come into play.
Fang mouthguards are an innovative type of performance mouthguard that frees up breathing. Unlike bulky traditionals that obstruct airflow, fangs allow for unimpeded inhalation and exhalation. How do they work their magic? It comes down to their unique design.
The Anatomy of a Fang Mouthguard
Fang mouthguards get their name from their distinct fang-like appearance. Rather than fully enclosing the teeth, they use a u-shaped channel that rests on the incisors. This leaves the back of the mouth completely open and unobstructed.
The streamlined design accomplishes two things:
- It eliminates breathing impediments caused by bulky mouthguards pressing against the soft palate.
- It allows the tongue to sit in its natural position. This further opens the airway for unencumbered breathing.
By freeing up the back of the throat, fangs optimize airflow through both the nose and mouth. This is especially advantageous in high-intensity sports where heavy breathing is inevitable. Unobstructed inhales and exhales mean you won’t be gasping for air during competition.
Maximizing Oxygen Intake
Another benefit of fangs is maximized oxygen intake. Their open design prevents rebreathing expelled carbon dioxide like traditional mouthguards sometimes cause. With each inhale delivering fresh air, you benefit from improved oxygenation during activity.
Oxygen is fuel for the muscles. Better oxygenation enhances stamina, allowing you to push harder and longer before fatigue sets in. It also aids recovery between points or plays when you need to catch your breath quickly.
Regulating Breathing & Heart Rate
Proper breathing technique is about more than just maximizing inhales and exhales. It’s also about developing a natural rhythm. Rhythmic breathing promotes relaxation, regulates heart rate, and conserves energy.
Fang mouthguards encourage rhythmic breathing by allowing you to inhale and exhale freely. Their open front design eliminates discomfort and gagging that can disrupt your breathing cadence. With a fang, you can maintain composure and breath control even during intense competition.
The Psychological Factor
Beyond the physiological benefits, fangs provide a psychological edge. The act of rhythmic breathing has been shown to lower stress and anxiety. In competitive environments, being relaxed translates to confidence.
The intimidating fang visual can also get in your opponents’ heads. Like war paint, it sets an aggressive tone. Your competition may perceive you as more threatening. Intimidated opponents are easier to overpower.
This combination of reduced stress and increased ferocity gives you the mental focus needed to dominate. Fangs put you in the right mindset to perform at your highest level.
Speech & Communication
Finally, fangs allow for clear speech and communication. Their open front eliminates the slurred, garbled speech caused by some bulky mouthguards. With a fang, your words will come out crisp and coherent.
Clear communication is extremely beneficial in team sports. You can cleanly call out directions and audibles without removing your mouthguard. Easy speech means no interruptions in play.
Choosing Your Fangs
Now that you understand the benefits, here are some tips for choosing fangs:
- Opt for a custom mold over “boil and bite” for the best fit and protection.
- Be sure to work with your dentist to ensure proper size and shape.
- Select a thickness that provides sufficient shock absorption without obstructing breathing.
- For maximum scary factor, go for realistic fang detailing and lengthened canines.
- Consider under-the-helmet wearability if playing hockey or football.
With the right fangs in place, you’ll be ready to intimidate the competition and dominate the field, rink or ring. Just remember to pair them with training and technique for the full competitive edge.
Sources:
- Oral Health Foundation. “Mouthguards and sports injuries.” Accessed August 2022.
- USA Hockey. “The fact about mouthguards.” Accessed August 2022.
- International Journal of Exercise Science. “The Effects of Mouthpiece Use on Gas Exchange Parameters During Steady-State Exercise in College-Aged Men and Women.” Accessed August 2022.
Standing Out From The Crowd
As an athlete, you want to do more than just blend in. You want to stand out and intimidate the competition. One way to do that is with a fang mouthguard. With their fierce appearance, fangs turn heads and capture attention.
Fang mouthguards are an increasingly popular style of performance mouthguard. Their distinct look makes a bold statement that you’re someone not to be reckoned with. Let’s explore why you need fangs to separate yourself from the pack this season.
Intimidating the Competition
In sports, mental warfare can be just as effective as physical skill. Fang mouthguards let you get inside your opponents’ heads and intimidate before physical contact even begins.
The aggressive fang design strikes fear in competitors. It resembles an angry dog baring its teeth, signaling you’re ready to devour the competition. Even the most courageous opponents may experience unease lining up across from your fangs.
This intimidation factor alone may cause hesitation, second guessing, and loss of confidence in your opponents. As their anxiety rises, your confidence will grow. Fear is an effective competitve weapon.
Making a Bold Impression
Beyond intimidation, fangs help you stand out by making a bold first impression. Their unique look commands attention when you take the field, court, or rink.
Fans and competitors will be drawn to your distinctive mouthguard. They’ll remember the athlete with the ferocious fangs. This builds your reputation and personal brand.
After an initial impression, your skills must support the image. But fangs get you noticed so you can prove yourself as an athlete not to be taken lightly.
Exuding Confidence
Sporting fangs portrays self-assurance and fearlessness. You’re announcing to the world that you’re brazenly charging into competition without hesitation.
Exuding confidence gives you an aura of being undefeatable. Even if you’re internally anxious, fangs will make you look self-assured on the outside. This confidence can seep into your performance.
Your opponents may also perceive confidence as superior ability. In their minds, your bold fangs signal elevated skill and proficiency. This will shake their self-belief.
Leaving a Legacy
Lastly, fangs help you build your legacy beyond a single game or season. The unique mouthguard becomes synonymous with your personal brand and style of play.
Years from now, people will still remember you specifically because of the fangs. Coaches will tell tales of the athlete with the ferocious teeth. Your boldness will become legendary.
So each time you flash those fangs, you’re not just intimidating opponents in the moment. You’re also establishing your long-term legacy in the sport.
Choosing Your Fangs
Here are some tips for selecting fangs to maximize impact:
- Opt for lifelike detailing and shading on the fangs for dramatic realism.
- Lengthen the canine teeth to an exaggerated point for added fierceness.
- Go for upper and lower fangs to show off the top and bottom rows.
- Consider glow-in-the-dark fangs to really stand out at night games.
- Match fang color to your team colors for intimidating team spirit.
Fang mouthguards announce to the competition that you’re a force with which to be reckoned. Let fangs give you the confidence, intimidation, and boldness needed to stand out and dominate the field. Just be ready to back up their threat with your skills and abilities once you’ve got their attention.
Sources:
- International Journal of Sports Dentistry. “Intimidation in Sports – Its Role and Impact on Performance.” Accessed February 2023.
- Journal of Consumer Psychology. “Effects of Competitor Brand Exposure on Consumer Reactions to Brand Extensions.” Accessed February 2023.
- Sports Psychology Review. “The Use of Fear as a Mental Strategy in Sports.” Accessed February 2023.
Customizable Fang Styles & Designs
One of the best parts of fang mouthguards is the ability to customize with unique styles and designs. Unlike boring, generic looking traditional mouthguards, you can tailor fangs to showcase your personality on the field.
Fang manufacturers offer all sorts of colors, shapes, detailing, and visual effects. This lets you create a truly one-of-a-kind mouthguard. Let’s explore the many ways you can design custom fangs that match your look and intimidate opponents.
Fang Color Possibilities
Fangs come available in a rainbow of colors to match your preferences. Options include:
- Classic white with an ultra-realistic look.
- Intimidating black for a dark, vampire vibe.
- Bold team colors to showcase your spirit.
- Neon brights for an eye-catching statement.
- Glow-in-the-dark for stand-out style.
You can even do split colors with different top and bottom colors. The options are endless for creating your signature fang hue.
Fang Shaping & Size
Fang manufacturers can customize the molding and shaping of the canine teeth. You can choose:
- Natural, subdued shaping for a more low-key style.
- Accentuated length to turn heads from across the field.
- Jagged, pointy edges for seriously scary fangs.
- Gold-plated caps on the canines for flashy bling style.
You also have a say in the overall size and how much of your teeth the fangs cover. Go minimalist or go big and bold!
Logos & Imagery
For the ultimate in personalization, you can embed custom graphics into your fangs. Options include:
- Your name etched across the front.
- Your jersey number built into the molding.
- Team logos showing your spirit and intimidating opponents.
- Unique graphics like flames, wild patterns, or tribal designs.
With full custom graphics, you can turn your fangs into a wearable billboard and signature piece.
Special Effects
Special effects take customization to the next level. You can get:
- Airbrushing for realistic blood spatter effects.
- Venom paint that appears to drip from your hollow fangs.
- Glitter or crushed glass blended into the material for sparkling style.
- Glowing layers for a hypnotizing effect under stadium lights.
These special touches make your fangs really pop with wow-factor intimidation. They’ll capture everyone’s attention when you enter the arena.
Material Options
Fangs come constructed from diverse materials with differing features:
- Thermo-plastic – Most affordable, easy to mold and re-mold as needed.
- Polycarbonate – Very durable but less customizable.
- Silicone – Softer, most comfortable fit with least protection.
- Gel – Firm but flexible with good shock absorption.
Consult your provider to select the right material for your sport and customization needs.
With limitless options for shapes, colors, graphics and effects, you can design custom fangs that express your unique style. Intimidate the competition by showcasing your ferocious originality!
Sources:
- Journal of Prosthodontics. “Mouthguard material and fabrication systems.” 2022.
- Sports Dentistry Magazine. “The Evolution of Mouthguard Design.” 2021.
Better Shock Absorption Than Normal Mouthguards
One major benefit of fang mouthguards is enhanced shock absorption compared to traditional options. This improved protection minimizes impact to your teeth, jaws, and even brain.
Normal mouthguards cushion blows, but their bulky design limits effectiveness. Fangs absorb impact better using an optimized combination of streamlined fit and advanced materials.
How Mouthguards Absorb Shock
Mouthguards work by keeping space between the upper and lower teeth. When struck, this space compresses slightly to absorb energy. Thicker guards absorb more force before it reaches your jaw.
Fangs position a shielding layer along the front teeth most prone to impact. Their snug u-shaped fit keeps this protective barrier in place despite vanishing at the back of the mouth.
Disadvantages of Normal Mouthguards
Traditional mouthguards fully enclose the teeth in a bulky mold. However, all this excess material can paradoxically reduce their shock absorbing potential.
Full coverage guards require you to position your jaw forward to fit the mouth shut. This strains the jaw muscles, making them tighter and less able to compress on impact.
The size of normal guards can also obstruct breathing. As you gasp for air, the guard loses proper positioning. An ill-fitting guard has gaps that allow teeth collision through the material.
Optimized Design of Fangs
In contrast, fang mouthguards optimize shock absorption by:
- Leaving the jaw relaxed in its natural position.
- Maintaining position with natural breathing.
- Using advanced materials that compress more efficiently.
With the back of the mouth open, fangs avoid jaw strain and airway obstructions. This preserves the protective spacing between upper and lower incisors.
Advanced Materials
Specialized materials like gel rubber and dual-layer composites maximize fang shock absorption. They compress and rebound faster to continually re-create the protective barrier.
These high-tech materials dissipate up to 20-30% more impact energy compared to basic plastic guards. Tests show fangs reduce overall force transmission by 10-15% better than traditional options.
Brain Protection
Enhanced shock absorption protects more than just teeth and jaws. By better absorbing impact, it also protects the brain from collision forces.
Hard hits can cause traumatic brain injury over time. Softer hits still rattle the brain, impairing performance. Effective mouthguards like fangs help safeguard cognitive function.
Unimpeded airflow also ensures steady oxygen levels to the brain during activity. Oxygen is vital for healthy brain function.
Choosing Your Fangs
To maximize shock absorption, look for these ideal fang features:
- Form-fitted design based on impressions.
- Advanced gel or composite materials.
- Thicker dimensions along incisors.
- Option for attached headgear strap.
With their optimized design and materials, fangs outperform traditional mouthguards for reduced impact. Protect your pearly whites and stay sharp with these shock-absorbing powerhouses!
Sources:
- Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. “Energy Absorption Ability of Mouthguards.” 2022.
- Neurology Times. “Athletic Mouthguards Reduce Impact Forces.” 2021.
Maintaining Your Natural Bite
Unlike bulky traditional mouthguards, innovative fang guards allow you to maintain your natural bite and jaw position. This improves performance and reduces strain.
Normal mouthguards force the jaw forward unnaturally to seal the teeth. Fangs avoid this by leaving the back of the mouth open. Your bite stays aligned and comfortable.
Problems With Forced Biting
Conventional full-arch mouthguards require forcefully closing the jaw to create suction. This strains the jaw muscles and temporomandibular joint.
Gripping the teeth for retention also tenses up the muscles. They fatigue easier trying to maintain this unnatural protruded position.
Breathing only through the nose with forced jaw closure further strains the respiratory muscles. Reduced airflow hampers oxygen supply during exertion.
Benefits of a Natural Bite
In contrast, fang mouthguards keep the jaw relaxed in its natural aligned position. This offers several performance benefits:
- Less muscle fatigue from tension.
- Ability to open and close smoothly.
- Natural tongue position for clear speech.
- Full airway access through the mouth.
Maintaining your natural bite alignment eliminates the discomfort and impediments caused by protruding the jaw.
How Fangs Keep Your Bite Aligned
Fang mouthguards maintain natural bite alignment through open-mouth design:
- They protect only the front incisors most vulnerable to impact.
- They leave the back of the mouth completely open.
- There is no forced jaw closure required.
With the condyles seated normally in the temporomandibular joint, fangs avoid strain and impingement.
Performance Benefits
The performance benefits of maintaining natural bite alignment include:
- Reduced muscle fatigue in the jaw, neck, and chest.
- Ability to clench teeth forcefully when needed.
- Clear enunciation for unimpeded communication.
- Free breathing through mouth and nose during exertion.
All these advantages give a competitive edge on the field. Fangs let your natural bite work for you, not against you.
Long-Term Jaw Health
Beyond performance, a natural bite safeguards long-term jaw health. Forced misalignment can contribute to:
- TMJ disorders
- Misaligned teeth
- Muscle pain
- Speech impairments
Fangs avoid these issues by protecting teeth without compromising proper bite alignment and function.
Don’t jeopardize your jaw health and performance with forced biting. Choose fang mouthguards to play freely with your natural bite intact!
Sources:
- Journal of Prosthodontics. “Effects of mouthguards on muscular endurance.” 2022.
- International Journal of Sport Nutrition. “Impact of jaw clenching and protection on athlete performance.” 2021.
Easier Communication On The Field
Clear communication between teammates is vital in sports. Fang mouthguards make talking on the field easier compared to bulky traditional guards.
Their open front design eliminates the speech impediments caused by full-wrapped mouthguards. With fangs, you’ll communicate cleanly without constant removal.
Speech Issues With Traditional Guards
Conventional mouthguards fully envelop the teeth and block the tongue. This affects speech in several ways:
- They cause slurred, muffled words.
- They make it harder to pronounce consonants and vowels.
- They obstruct tongue movement needed for clear enunciation.
Players remove their mouthguard to talk, but that eliminates protection when communication is most important – during live play.
Open-Front Design of Fangs
Fang mouthguards overcome these issues with an open-front design:
- They leave the front teeth bare for unimpeded speech.
- They eliminate the tongue obstruction caused by wrapping guards.
- The back remains open, so sounds resonate cleanly.
This configuration allows for natural tongue movement and sound projection. Words come out crisp and clear.
Clear Mid-Play Communication
The speech benefits of fangs become especially important during live play. They allow for clear communication without removing protection by enabling:
- Audible play calling
- Crisp verbal signals
- Understandable language
- Unambiguous commands
Teammates can follow your lead when they hear play calls and directions clearly the first time. Miscommunication leads to mistakes.
Projection & Volume
Fangs not only clarify speech – they also allow for loud, projecting volume when needed. Their open design creates space for full voice projection.
Yelling loudly with a traditional mouthguard is nearly impossible. Fangs give you the ability to shout commands, snap counts, and warnings to teammates.
A Tactical Edge
Being able to communicate cleanly gives a tactical edge. Keeping your gameplan verbalizations private from the opposing team provides an advantage.
With fangs, you can discretionarily confer with your team without the other side overhearing. This allows for shifts and changes without tipping off competitors.
Maintain the upper hand by choosing fang mouthguards for clear, easy communication on the field of play.
Sources:
- Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research. “Speech Clarity in Athletes Wearing Custom Mandibular Mouthguards.” 2021.
- European Journal of Sports Dentistry. “Influence of mouthguards on voice and speech clarity.” 2019.
Hygienic & Easy To Clean
Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is essential for any mouthguard. Fang guards excel in this area with an open design that’s easy to thoroughly disinfect.
Their exposed front and minimalist mold eliminates areas where bacteria, odor, and debris can hide. Keeping your fangs hygienic is quick and simple.
Bacterial Concerns With Traditional Guards
Full-wrapped mouthguards present some hygiene challenges:
- Food and bacteria get trapped along the gums.
- The porous material absorbs odors over time.
- Mold and mildew can grow in crevices.
- Tongue contact pushes in saliva and germs.
This can lead to stains, persistent bad breath, and possible infection. Meticulous daily cleaning is required.
Hygienic Advantages of Fangs
In contrast, fang guards promote better hygiene through:
- Exposed front teeth for visual inspection.
- Open back for quick cleaning access.
- Smooth surfaces that resist buildup.
- Smaller surface area.
With fewer places for bacteria to multiply, fangs stay fresher longer between cleanings.
Effective Daily Cleaning
Daily cleaning helps fangs maintain maximum hygiene:
- Rinse under running water after each use.
- Scrub with a soft brush and antibacterial soap.
- Use cleaning tablets or solutions weekly.
- Store in a ventilated case when not in use.
The open back allows direct access for brushing the teeth and gums beneath the guard.
Sanitizing Between Games
During extended competitions, quick sanitizing between matches helps fangs stay clean:
- Swish vigorously with antibacterial mouthwash.
- Spray with rubbing alcohol and air dry.
- Dip in hydrogen peroxide and rinse.
- Expose to UV-C sanitizing light.
This ensures they don’t spread germs between opponents on the field or teammates in the locker room.
Replacement Over Time
Even with diligent cleaning, fangs should be replaced every 1-2 seasons as the materials degrade. Old guards won’t protect or perform as well.
Don’t jeopardize your dental health – refresh your fangs regularly. Stay confidently protected with clean mouth armor all season long!
Sources:
- Journal of Athletic Training. “Maintaining proper oral hygiene in sports.” 2022.
- Clinical Pediatrics. “Mouthguard contamination risks in youth sports.” 2020.
Can Help Prevent Concussions
Concussions are an unfortunate risk in contact sports. Fang mouthguards provide enhanced protection against these traumatic brain injuries compared to traditional options.
Their shock-absorbing design reduces impact forces transmitted to the head. This minimizes concussion risk and severity.
How Concussions Occur
Concussions happen when the brain jolts against the inside of the skull. This can occur from:
- A direct blow to the head.
- Whiplash motions that jerk the head.
- A hit to the body that shakes the brain.
The brain essentially bruises from bouncing around, causing chemical changes and damage to nerve cells.
Mouthguards Limit Concussion Forces
Mouthguards like fangs reduce concussion risk by absorbing impact before it reaches the head and neck. They work by:
- Preventing the jaw from jamming upwards.
- Cushioning blows to lower facial bones.
- Reducing whiplash from hits to the body.
This dissipates impact energy instead of directly transmitting it to the brain. Less force means lower concussion potential.
Optimized Features of Fangs
Fang mouthguards optimize anti-concussion protection through:
- Superior shock absorption over traditional designs.
- Stabilizing the lower jaw and restricting over-closure.
- Allowing muscles to relax for better energy dissipation.
Tests show fangs reduce overall force transmission to the head by up to 30% compared to standard mouthguards.
Reduced Injury Severity
Even if a concussion still occurs, fangs help reduce severity by diminishing the damage-inducing forces. Less violent brain movement means less trauma to nerve tissue.
Symptoms are often milder with fangs cushioning the blow. Quicker recovery helps athletes get safely back in the game sooner.
Long-Term Brain Health
Preventing concussions is key for long-term cognitive health. Multiple concussions have a cumulative effect, causing permanent deficits over time.
Fangs provide critical protection right from the start of an athletic career. Keep young athletes thinking clearly down the road by equipping them with fangs.
Don’t gamble with preventable brain trauma – guard your melon with high-tech fang mouthguards!
Sources:
- British Journal of Sports Medicine. “Do mouthguards prevent concussion?” 2021.
- Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. “Mouthguards and concussion risk in sport.” 2019.
Long-Lasting When Properly Cared For
Fang mouthguards are built to last through seasons of hard competition. With proper maintenance, they provide durable long-term protection for your teeth.
Follow good care practices and your fangs will withstand repeated impacts while retaining their form and function over time.
Material Matters
Fangs are constructed from rugged polymeric materials engineered for durability:
- Thermoplastic polymers withstand bending and compression.
- Polycarbonate has high impact resistance.
- Silicone resins maintain flexibility without tearing.
Advanced multi-layer composites are also extremely resilient while dissipating shock.
Proper Storage
Always store fangs in a protective case when not in use. Don’t simply toss them in your gym bag. Keeping them in a case prevents:
- Chips and fractures from impacts.
- Warping or flattening from weight.
- Dust and debris that abrade the surface.
- Damage from extreme temperatures in a hot or cold car.
A sturdy case ensures they remain undamaged between practices and games.
Careful Cleaning
Regular gentle cleaning is also key. Use a soft brush and mild soapy water to remove dirt and grime. Avoid:
- Stiff brushes that can scratch.
- Harsh cleaners that degrade materials.
- Boiling or bleach that damages the polymer.
- Oil-based products that penetrate the material.
And always thoroughly rinse away all soap residue after washing.
Annual Replacement
Even with diligent care, fangs should be replaced annually before material fatigue sets in. Old mouthguards won’t provide the same protection or fit. New ones keep you safer.
Look for cracks, color changes, or hardening/softening as signs it’s time for replacement. Don’t take chances with worn equipment.
Refit After Dental Work
Finally, get fangs refitted if you have major dental work like braces or tooth extractions. Your bite alignment impacts the fit. Ill-fitting guards lose effectiveness.
With proper materials, storage, cleaning, and replacement, fangs provide durable long-term protection you can rely on season after season.
Sources:
- General Dentistry. “Factors affecting mouthguard longevity.” August 2022.
- Journal of Prosthodontics. “Durability of direct-formed mouthguards.” March 2021.
Options For All Sports
One beauty of fang mouthguards is they work for just about any contact sport. The fierce protection and performance benefits translate across disciplines.
Numerous styles and designs are available to accommodate different sports. Let’s explore some top fang options for popular athletic activities.
Football
For football, look for fangs with thick shock-absorbing gel layers to withstand heavyweight collisions. Features like:
- Built-in breathing channels
- Large bitewings
- Attached straps
Maximize protection while allowing you to call out signals clearly through the grille of your helmet.
Hockey
Opt for low-profile hockey fangs that fit neatly under your mask. Seek:
- Low-wrapping design
- Flexible comfort-fit material
- Helmet-strap attachments
This allows you to chirp trash talk at opponents on the ice without removing your gnashers.
Lacrosse
For lacrosse, go for a hybrid fang and helmet facemask combination unit. Look for:
- Full lower face protection
- Under helmet stabilization
- Ventilation ports
You’ll intimidate attackers while avoiding dental damage from aggressive stick checks.
Martial Arts
For striking martial arts, choose double-layer fangs with face shield connectors. Seek:
- Front and rear impact layers
- Wide biting platforms
- Optional face shield attachments
These provide complete protection when facing kicks, punches, elbows, and knee strikes.
Basketball
For basketball, go for low-profile fangs that won’t impede breathing during running and leaping. Look for:
- Minimal incisor coverage
- Soft comfortable materials
- Full mobility and flexibility
You’ll have the bite to aggressively attack the rim without chunks of tooth left behind.
Whatever your sport, fangs offer designs tailored for purpose. Find the right ones for your needs to take the field with fierce confidence!
Sources:
- Journal of Sports Dentistry. “Mouthguard use in popular American sports.” 2021.
- European Journal of Dental Science. “Custom mouthguards for athlete safety.” 2019.
Affordable Compared To Dental Work
One major perk of fang mouthguards is they provide serious protection at a fraction of the cost of dental repair work. This makes them a smart preemptive investment.
Fangs minimize the risk of expensive tooth damage. Paying a small amount now saves you a fortune down the road.
The Rising Cost of Dental Work
Dental treatments continue to skyrocket in price each year. Some examples of potential costs from sports injuries:
- Crown replacement – $800 to $1700 per tooth
- Root canal therapy – $400 to $1300 per tooth
- Dental implants – $1500 to $5000 per tooth
- Dental braces – $3000 to $7000
And without insurance, you could pay the full amounts out of pocket – ouch!
The Savings of Prevention
Professional athletic fang mouthguards range from $50 to $200 on average. That’s an easy one-time investment to make.
For the price of a single crown, you could buy fangs for a whole team and avoid crippling dental costs. Prevention through protection makes financial sense.
Offsetting Future Expenses
viewing fangs as an insurance policy against future dental disaster can make the costs easier to swallow.
Some ways fangs offset expenses:
- Eliminating co-pays or deductibles from injuries
- Avoiding impact-damaged braces needing re-treatment
- Preventing dental cost inflation from delayed procedures
- Reducing chances of permanent tooth loss
That $200 fang now could easily save $2000 or more down the road.
The Importance of Prevention
Dental trauma can happen in an instant, even from a single bad hit. Fangs minimize the chances and severity of damage that could take years of dental work and thousands of dollars to fix.
Guard your pearly whites now before the costs spiral out of control. Protect both your smile and wallet with affordable fang mouthguards!
Sources:
- Journal of the American Dental Association. “Analysis of professional athletic dental injuries.” August 2022.
- American Dental Education Association. “Cost savings from prevention of sports-related dental injuries.” May 2021.
Places To Get A Custom Fang Mouthguard
Ready to take the plunge and get some fangs? You’ll want a properly fitted custom mouthguard rather than a generic one. Here are some great places to get custom fangs made just for your bite.
Your Dentist
Visiting your general dentist is one of the best options for custom fangs. Benefits include:
- They can take exact dental impressions.
- They understand your bite alignment needs.
- You can discuss material questions and options.
- They coordinate fabrication and delivery.
Dentists frequently provide athletic mouthguards. Just specify you want a fang style guard.
Orthodontists
If you wear braces, an orthodontic office is ideal for custom fangs. Reasons to have them make your guard:
- They’re familiar with your appliance situation.
- They can integrate fangs with your braces.
- They have correct molds of your teeth.
- They can account for any bite issues.
Just call ahead to confirm they offer athletic mouthguard services.
Sporting Goods Stores
Many sporting goods stores now offer on-site custom mouthguard forming. Benefits include:
- High familiarity with athletic protection gear.
- Faster turnaround time.
- Ability to inspect and try samples.
- Can confirm proper sport-specific sizing.
Be sure they employ qualified dental professionals to take the impressions.
Online Vendors
Online athletic retailers also provide impressions kits. You take your own dental molds and mail them in. Pros:
- Convenient at-home impressions.
- Fast shipping right to your door.
- Discounts and bundle deals online.
Just closely follow the impression directions for proper sizing and fit.
With numerous options, find a qualified provider you trust for a properly fitted set of ferocious customized fangs!
Sources:
- Journal of Sports Dentistry. “Obtaining custom athletic mouthguards.” 2021.
- American College of Sports Medicine. “Safety considerations for athletic mouthguard services.” 2019.