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A mouthguard is a flexible appliance made out of plastic that is
worn in athletic and recreational activities to protect teeth from
trauma.
Why should I wear a mouthguard?
To protect your mouth from injuries. The dental profession unanimously
supports the use of mouthguards in a variety of sports activities.
More than 200,000 injuries to the mouth and jaw occur each year.
Do mouthguards prevent injuries?
A mouthguard can prevent serious injuries such as concussions, cerebral
hemorrhages, incidents of unconsciousness, jaw fractures and neck
injuries by helping to avoid situations where the lower jaw gets
jammed into the upper jaw. Mouthguards are effective in moving soft
issue in the oral cavity away from the teeth, preventing lacera-tion
and bruising of the lips and cheeks, especiallyfor those who wear
orthodontic appliances.
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, 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 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 an facial protective
device.
Mouth-formed protectors: These mouthguards come as a shell-liner
and "boil-and-bite"
product. The shell is lined with acrylic or rubber. When placed
in an athlete's mouth, the protector's lining material molds to
the teeth and is allowed to set.
Custom-made mouth protectors: 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 warm (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
mouth-guard will dry.
• Heat is bad for mouthguards, 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 mouth- guard.
• Call your dentist who made the mouthguard if there are any
problems.
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