Using Mouth Guards to prevent dental injuries

Dental injuries are easily prevented. It has been suggested that a properly fitted custom mouthguard may reduce the rate of concussion as well as dental injuries.

Some experts recommend that mouthguards be worn by athletes in competitive and recreational sports in which impact, contact and collision are likely to occur. The American Dental Association recommends wearing custom mouthguards for the following sports: acrobats, basketball, boxing, field hockey, football, gymnastics, handball, ice hockey, lacrosse, martial arts, racquetball, roller hockey, rugby, shot putting, skateboarding, skiing, skydiving, soccer, squash, surfing, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting, and wrestling. Other experts include baseball and softball infielders on that list. They further recommend the mouthguard to be worn during all practices and competition.

Selecting a Mouth Guard..

There are three types of mouth guards:

  • Ready-made or stock mouth guard

  • Mouth-formed “boil and bite” mouth guard

  • Custom-made mouth guard made by a dentist

These mouth guards vary in price and comfort, yet all provide some protection. According to the American Dental Association, the most effective mouth guard should be comfortable, resistant to tearing, and resilient. A mouth guard should fit properly, be durable, easily cleaned, and not restrict speech or breathing.

It is important to remember damaged teeth do not grow back. Protect that perfect smile – wear a mouth guard.