Patient Education
Mouth guards aren't just for adults!
Remember to add a mouth guard for each child to your list of school supplies. Protecting your child's head, jaw and teeth, even for seemingly non-contact sports, is very important.
Mouth guards not only protect the teeth. They may also prevent serious injuries by helping to avoid situations where the lower jaw and teeth are forced up against the upper teeth and jaw.
Sports Canada reports that overall, 69 percent of Canadian youth participate in organized sport. In any sport, whether it's full-contact hockey or a friendly game of racquetball, a little preparation can prevent costly and sometimes painful mistakes later on!
Who should wear a mouth guard?
Anyone playing contact sports or engaging in aggressive activities should wear a mouth guard.
Any sport with a strong chance for contact with other participants or hard surfaces requires mouth protection. Players who participate in basketball, baseball, soccer, wrestling, squash, racquetball, lacrosse, rugby, in-line skating and martial arts, or even recreational sports such as skateboarding and bicycling, should wear mouth guards when practicing or competing.
Many athletes resist wearing a mouth guard because of bulkiness and poor fit. Custom-made mouth guards are the most comfortable, non-bulky and form-fitting.
What are the factors that affect the fit of a mouth guard?
A dentist will consider a number of factors when fitting a patient for a mouth guard - size of mouth, bite, type of sport played and whether or not the patient wears braces or other appliances are all important considerations. Each patient's very specific needs must be addressed for maximum comfort and protection.
Types of mouth guards
Care for your mouthguard so it cares for you!
Caring for your mouthguard will help it take care of your teeth longer. Take a few moments to:
- Rinse your mouthguard under cold water after each use and air-dry. Occasionally clean it with mild soap and water or mouthwash.
- Store your mouthguard in a plastic container when not in use to avoid damage due to excessive heat and cold.
- Wear your mouthguard properly. Do not cut or alter it and do not chew on it.
- Check your mouthguard regularly and let your dentist know if it shows any signs of wear, or has any tears or cracks that may weaken it. If the bite has changed and the mouthguard no longer fits well, it can sometimes be adjusted by the dentist.
- Taken from the ODA website
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