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Protecting Your Athlete's Smiles
The mouth is a frequently injured area of the body during contact sports. Research has shown that most mouth injuries occur when athletes are not wearing a mouth guard. Wearing a mouth guard can help prevent broken teeth, cuts on the lips and tongue, and jaw injuries.
What makes a good mouthguard?
- Mouthguards protect the teeth from trauma or loss and reduce the risk for jaw fractures.
- Mouthguards also minimize lacerated and bruised lips and cheeks by keeping these soft tissue areas away from the teeth, and this is especially true for children with braces.
- An effective mouthguard should remain in place during the activity while not interfering with speech or breathing.
- It should provide maximum protection and be comfortable to wear.
- Wearing a mouthguard is highly recommended for those participating in boxing, basketball, baseball, field hockey, football, ice hockey, lacrosse, martial arts, soccer, wrestling, water polo, and rugby.
- Participants in recreational activities such as skateboarding and bicycling should also wear mouthguards, especially in competition.
Which mouthguard is right for your athlete?
Stock/ready-made
- Available in various sizes and shapes, but cannot be adjusted to fit your mouth. Often, they are loose and bulky and may interfere with speaking or breathing.
Mouth-formed/boil & bite
- These plastic mouthguard shells are boiled in water for a few seconds, cooled under tap water and molded directly in the mouth. Compared to custom-made guards, the fit is not as accurate, and it may not last as long.
Custom-made
- This type is highly recommended and the most effective. Dentists make them at the office or order them from a laboratory from a cast of your teeth. Young athletes are more likely to wear a mouthguard that fits comfortably, stays in place, and allows for better breathing.
Sources:
DDPA: Protecting your athlete’s smile flyer
