A mouthguard is a flexible
appliance that is worn in athletic and recreational activities to protect teeth
from trauma. The dental profession unanimously supports the use of mouthguards
in a variety of sports activities.
Why should I wear a
mouthguard?
A mouthguard can prevent
serious injuries such as broken teeth, jaw fractures, cerebral hemorrhage and
neck injuries by helping to avoid situations where the lower jaw gets jammed
into the upper jaw. Mouthguards are effective in moving soft tissue in the oral
cavity away from the teeth, preventing laceration and bruising of the lips and
cheeks, especially for those who wear orthodontic appliances. They may also
reduce the severity and incidence of concussions.
In what sports should I
wear a mouthguard?
Anytime there is a strong
chance for contact with other participants or hard surfaces, it is advisable to
wear a mouthguard. Players who participate in basketball, softball, football,
wrestling, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, in-line skating and martial arts, as well
as recreational sports such as skateboarding and bicycling, should wear
mouthguards while competing.
Why don't kids wear
mouthguards?
Parents are sometimes
uninformed about the level of contact and potential for serious dental injuries
involved with sports in which the child participates. Some, though not all,
schools reinforce the health advantage of mouthguards for their contact sports.
Cost may be another consideration, although mouthguards come in a variety of
price ranges.
What are the different
types of mouthguards?
Stock
mouthguard: The lowest cost option is a ready-made, stock item, which offers
the least protection because the fit adjustment is limited. It may interfere
with speech and breathing because this mouthguard requires that the jaw be
closed to hold it in place. A stock mouthguard is not considered acceptable as
a facial protective device.
Mouth-formed
mouthguard: There are two types of mouth-formed mouthguards. The first is a
shell-liner mouthguard that is made with an acrylic material that is poured
into an outer shell, where it forms a lining. When placed in an athlete's
mouth, the protector's lining material molds to the teeth and is allowed to
set. Another type is a thermoplastic, or "boil-and-bite," mouthguard.
This mouthguard is softened in hot water and then placed in the mouth and
shaped around the teeth by using finger, tongue and sometimes biting pressure.
Custom-made
mouthguard: The best choice is a mouthguard custom-made by your dentist. It
offers the best protection, fit and comfort level because it is made from a
cast to fit your teeth.
How should I care for a
mouthguard?
- Clean your mouthguard by washing it with soap and cool (not hot) water.
- Before storing, soak your mouthguard in mouthwash.
- Keep your mouthguard in a well-ventilated, plastic storage box when not in use. Make sure the box has several holes so the mouthguard will dry.
- Heat is bad for a mouthguard, so don't leave it in direct sunlight or in a closed automobile.
- Don't bend your mouthguard when storing.
- Don't handle or wear someone else's mouthguard.
- Call your dentist if there are any problems.
Dentist Alexandria VA
Bradlee Dental Care
3690 King Street, Suite KL
Alexandria, VA 22302
(703) 820-0809
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