Basketball is a “contact sport” and protecting yourself out on the court is the smart thing to do. Yes you can buy a mouthguard from a sporting goods store, but these usually come in general sizes that you or your child must conform to.  In addition, they are a bit bulky, which makes it difficult to breathe and talk with while playing. A custom fitted mouthguard works differently.  It actually conforms to your upper teeth, mouth and lips which significantly reduces the risk of dental and other head related injuries.  These mouth guards are specifically designed and fabricated by a Dentist or Orthodontist to ensure the proper fit.  This custom fitting provides the best protection due to its close fit, comfort and cushioning (shock absorption) effect.   Protects your teeth, mouth and chin area. Protection from jaw and neck injuries. Protection from concussions (mostly football players) Allows you to breathe easier Allows you to talk or communicate better while playing   First, we take an impression or mold of your teeth and surrounding structures.  We then make a cast stone model from the impression.  We examine the size, shape, and number of teeth before selecting the proper thickness of material.  A special machine heats up the rubberized material and uses pressure up to 90 psi to accurately compress and conform the material to the cast model.  Once the cooling process is finished, our lab technician will cut, trim and detail the mouthguard so it fits you and only you.  After wearing it for a time or two, you’re hooked!  It becomes a part of your game, so use it to your advantage! Click Pics Below for Full Size Viewing Impression Cast Stone Model Bio Star Compression Machine Rubberized Material Compressed on Cast Model Rubberize Material Compressed on Cast Model Ready Custom Mouthguard Cut, Trimmed, and Detailed Store-Bought Mouthguard   Dr. Cooper, an Orthodontist here in Charlotte, has been making custom mouthguards for many years and for all levels of competition.  That’s right, for players in the NBA, college, high school, AAU and Park & Rec. leagues.  He is a proud sponsor of the Metrolina HAVOC Basketball Club and encourages all players to protect themselves while practicing and playing games.  If you’re really interested in the best protection for your “Baller”, you can contact Dr. Cooper’s office below to make an appointment. It’s important to realize that a small investment up front for proper mouth protection is much better than the cost and pain of a serious injury later.   Dr. Ford S. Cooper 9320 Center Lake Drive, Suite 100 Charlotte, N.C. 28216 704-509-4999 www.drcooperortho.com We are conveniently located next to the Northlake Mall, in the Northlake Commons Business Complex.