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MOUTHGUARDS
What is a mouthguard?
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 laceration
and bruising of the lips and cheeks, especially for 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, soft
ball, 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 mouth-guards, so don't leave it in
direct sunlight or in a closed automobile.
- Don't bend your mouth-guard when storing.
- Don't handle or wear some-one else's mouthguard.
- Call your dentist who made the mouthguard if there
are any problems.
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