Mouthguards
Mouthguards are important to help protect your child's mouth and teeth from serious injury.
The importance of mouthguards
To protect the mouth and teeth from serious injury, a mouthguard, usually a flexible piece of plastic that fits into the mouth, should be worn during all recreational and athletic activities—especially activities where there is contact or potential contact with another person, piece of equipment, or the ground. In particular, mouthguards should be worn during the following sports:
Football
Basketball
Soccer
Rugby
Wrestling
Baseball
Softball
Lacrosse
Field hockey
Ice hockey
Martial arts
Boxing
Some of these sports need the use of a mouthguard at the amateur level.
Many recreational activities, such as skateboarding and bicycling, also pose a risk of injuring the mouth and teeth. Exercise caution during these activities.
Mouthguards and preventable injuries
Injuries to the teeth, mouth, and head may include the following, many of which could be prevented with correct and consistent use of a mouthguard:
Dislodged or knocked out teeth
Broken or chipped teeth
Bitten or cut tongue or lip
Objects caught or lodged between the teeth
Jaw fracture
Jaw collision—the lower jaw gets jammed into the upper jaw
Concussion
Types of mouthguards
There are several types of mouthguards that can be used. The following are 3 of the most common types:
Premade mouthguards. This type is already made and can be found in most sports stores or pharmacies. There are different types and brands. Choose the one that fits best and is most comfortable.
Boil and Bite. Available at sporting goods stores or pharmacies, these mouthguards are softened in hot water, then adapted to the mouth while still soft. Follow the directions on the label carefully.
Custom-made mouthguards. Your child's dentist can make a mouthguard specifically for your child. These may be more expensive, but usually are more comfortable for the child.
Ask your child's dentist or healthcare provider about the best type of mouthguard to use. If your child has braces, the dentist may recommend a mouthguard that covers the upper and lower teeth. Clean the mouthguard regularly in cool, soapy water. Then rinse it.