What is a mouth guard?
A mouth guard is a flexible, removable device that fits in the mouth to protect the teeth, jaws, lips, tongue, cheeks, and gums. It should be worn when participating in athletic or recreational activities that might result in injury. Some of the higher risk activities include football, baseball, basketball, softball, soccer, volleyball, wrestling, skateboarding, rollerblading, biking, and karate. It is estimated that every athlete in the United States has a 10 percent chance of sustaining an injury to the face or mouth during each season of play and has a 45 percent chance of an oral-facial injury during his/her playing career.
A mouth guard is a plastic device worn in the mouth to help prevent injuries to the teeth, lips, cheeks, tongue, and jaw. There are three types of mouth guards: Stock mouth guards are the least expensive. They do NOT adjust to fit the individual. Consequently, athletes complain they are too loose, too bulky, and uncomfortable. Boil and bite mouth guards are inexpensive with the advantage that they can be molded to fit the athlete’s mouth. However, they can also feel bulky. Custom-made mouth guards are fitted at the dentist’s office and made from a mold of the athlete’s mouth. They are more expensive. Athletes find them to be comfortable, allowing them to breathe and speak normally. What Should a Mouth Guard Do? Provide maximum protection from a traumatic force Remain in place during activity Not interfere with breathing or speech Be comfortable to wear for an entire event, and be easy to clean Where Can I Get a Non-Custom Made Mouth Guard?
