Mouthguards - Learn Everything You Need To Know

The mouthguard, a small, flexible plastic device, can dramatically protect athletes from injuries including concussions, jaw fractures, and neck and head trauma. Anyone participating in sports and especially contact sports such as football, hockey, soccer, and wrestling, should wear protective mouth guards for safety. It is especially important to wear a mouthguard if a person has braces. In addition, if a child's teeth protrude, it is very important that he or she wears one.

Different Types of Mouth Guards Available

Different types of mouthguards from off-the-shelf to custom-fitted types provide various advantages and degrees of protection . When considering options, evaluate the mouthguard's degree of comfort; the wearer's ability to speak and breathe; durability; and protection for the teeth and mouth.

• The stock or off-the-shelf mouthguard is the least expensive type and offers the least protection. Adjustment is limited and may interfere with speech and breathing. The jaw holds the mouthguard in place so the jaw must be closed at all times to work properly -- not convenient or practical in many situations.
   

• The "boil-and-bite" mouthguard found in athletic stores also is inexpensive. The mouth guard is dropped into hot water, then placed into the mouth; the synthetic material forms an impression around the teeth providing a better fit. Make certain that the mouth guard is not too big.
   

• Custom-made mouthguards are more expensive, but after all of the permanent teeth have erupted, they do offer the best protection against injury. They're also more comfortable to wear. These are made by the dentist and tailored to fit your mouth.

Mouthguard Care

• Wash with soap and warm water and soak the mouthguard in mouthwash before storage. Store in a well-ventilated plastic storage case when not using. Do not bend.
   

• Some mouth guards can be cleaned with an effervescent cleaner such as Efferdent -- refer to individual instructions first.
   

• Avoid exposing your mouthguard to heat, including leaving it in direct sunlight or in a hot car, which can permanently affect its shape and fit.

• Keep it to yourself! Don't handle other people's mouth guards or let others use yours.