The Importance Of Wearing A Mouthguard While Playing Sports!

 

With winter sports underway, we wanted to remind our patients about the importance of wearing a mouthguard while you’re on the court or the field!  Below is some information on the importance of mouthguards!

In an ADA Press release, Advisor Matthew Messina said, “A properly fitted mouthguard is an important piece of athletic gear that can help protect your mouth, cushion blows that might otherwise cause broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face or jaw.”

In a 2007 study, it was determined that overall risk was 1.6 to 1.9 times greater without a proper fitting mouthguard.  This is proof that mouthguards are an effective safety feature in reducing injuries in sports.  “But you don’t have to be on the football field or in a hockey rink to benefit from properly fitted mouthguard.  Findings in sports dentistry show that even in non-contact sports, such as gymnastics, mouthguards will help protect participants, and many experts recommend that everyone – from children to adults- wear a mouthguard during any recreational activity that might pose a risk of injury to the mouth, including practice and training sessions.”, said Messina.

There are three main types of mouthguards:

Custom-fitted.  These mouthguards are custom-fitted for you personally by your dentist.  They are the best option for protecting teeth.

Stock.  Often, these mouthguards are factory formed.  They generally don’t fit your teeth well, but are less expensive.

Boil and form.  These mouthguards can be found in most drug or sporting goods stores.  You boil them in water, and then bite into them to form the mouthguard to your mouth.

If you have any questions regarding mouthguards or custom mouthguards, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (313) 908-5110 or (734) 365-7720.  Remember, if you haven’t done so yet, LIKE our Facebook and FOLLOW our Twitter for more information and updates!