Whether you wear braces or not, protecting your smile while playing sports is essential. Injuries to the mouth and jaw are some of the most common injuries received by athletes.
Mouth Guards help protect your teeth and gums. If you participate in basketball, boxing, hockey, football, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, racquetball, rugby, track and field, skateboarding, skiing and snowboarding, skydiving, soccer, surfing, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting or wrestling, it is recommended by the American Dental Association that you wear a mouth guard.
Choosing the right mouth guard is important. There are three basic types of mouth guards: the pre-made mouth guard, the “boil-and-bite” fitted mouth guard, and a custom-made mouth guard. When you choose a mouth guard, be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, well fitted for your mouth and easy to keep clean. Also make sure it does not prevent you from breathing properly during use. If you wear braces or a retainer, it is imperative for you to wear a mouth guard. Your dentist can show you how to wear a mouth guard properly and how to choose the right mouth guard to protect your smile.
Similar to a retainer, braces, or any other special dental appliance, it is important to take care of your mouth guard by storing it properly and keeping it clean. You should also know when to replace your old mouth guard with a new one. Here are a few simple ways to keep your mouth guard clean and working correctly:
Our goal is to help minimize your chances of a sports related injury. Be sure to ask your dentist in Matthews, NC about mouth guards at your next dental checkup – GO TEAM!