A mouthguard: What is it?
A mouthguard is a type of flexible item used to shield teeth from impact during sports and leisure activities. All members of the dental profession are in favor of mouthguards being worn for a range of sports.
Why is wearing a mouthguard necessary?
By assisting in preventing circumstances when the lower jaw gets jammed into the upper jaw, a mouthguard can help prevent major injuries such broken teeth, jaw fractures, brain bleeding, and neck injuries. Mouthguards, especially for people who wear orthodontic appliances, are effective in keeping soft tissue in the oral cavity away from the teeth, reducing bruising and laceration of the cheeks and lips. Additionally, they might lessen the frequency and severity of concussions.
Which activities are OK for me to wear a mouthguard?
A mouthguard is recommended anytime there is a significant risk of contact with other players or hard surfaces. Mouthguards should be worn by athletes who compete in sports including basketball, softball, football, wrestling, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, in-line skating, martial arts, and recreational activities like cycling and skateboarding.
Why do children not use mouthguards?
Sometimes parents are unaware of the amount of contact and risk of major oral injuries associated with sports their child plays. For their contact sports, some schools—though not all—remind students of the health benefits of wearing mouthguards. Cost could be an additional factor, even though mouthguards are available in a range of pricing points.
What varieties of mouthguards are there?
Stock mouthguard: A ready-made mouthguard is the least expensive alternative, but it provides the least protection due to its restricted fit adjustment. Speaking and breathing may be impeded by this mouthguard since it closes the jaw to stay in place. It is not deemed appropriate to use a standard mouthguard as a facial protection tool.
Mouth-formed mouthguards: There are two varieties available. The first is a mouthguard called a shell-liner, which is constructed by pouring acrylic material into an outer shell to create a lining. The lining substance of the protector conforms to the athlete's teeth when it is placed in their mouth and given time to solidify. A mouthguard that is thermoplastic, sometimes known as "boil-and-bite," is an additional variety. After being dissolved in hot water, the mouthguard is inserted and molded over the teeth with the help of the tongue, fingers, and occasionally biting pressure.
Custom mouthguard: A mouthguard designed specifically for you by your dentist is the finest option. Because it is fashioned from a cast to fit your teeth, it provides the finest protection, fit, and comfort level.
How should a mouthguard be maintained?
- Wash your mouthguard in cold (not hot) water and soap to clean it.
- Soak your mouthguard in mouthwash before storing.
- When not in use, store your mouthguard in a plastic storage box with good ventilation. To ensure that the mouthguard dries, make sure the box has multiple openings.
- A mouthguard should not be left in a closed car or in direct sunlight as heat damages them.
- When keeping your mouthguard, do not bend it.
- Never wear or handle another person's mouthguard.
- Should you have any issues, give your dentist a call.
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