Mouthguards
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:
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Football
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Basketball
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Soccer
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Rugby
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Wrestling
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Baseball
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Softball
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Lacrosse
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Field hockey
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Ice hockey
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Martial arts
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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:
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Dislodged or knocked out teeth
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Broken or chipped teeth
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Bitten or cut tongue or lip
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Objects caught or lodged between the teeth
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Jaw fracture
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Jaw collision—the lower jaw gets jammed into the upper jaw
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Concussion
Types of mouthguards
There are several types of mouthguards that can be used. The following are 3 of the
most common types:
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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.
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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.
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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.