A mouth guard is a soft plastic or laminate device used in sports to prevent oral injuries to the teeth, mouth, cheeks, tongue and jaw. Mouth guards absorb the energy caused by impact and can help reduce injuries to kids teeth and mouth. Dr Amin recommends that kids playing any kind of sport where impact is possible, to wear a mouthguard during that time.
Types of Injuries that can occur
The types of dental injuries that can occur without the use of a mouth guard are chipped or broken teeth, lip and cheek injuries, root damage to the teeth, fractured jaws, and concussions. Any athlete may be at risk for oral injury and any injury can be prevented with the use of a mouth guard. The injuries and treatment can be very costly throughout a lifetime of a child but can be avoided by asking Dr. Amin how, what kind, and where you can get a mouth guard.
Types of Mouthguard’s: Custom mouthguard
Custom-fitted mouthguards are made by Dr Amin. An impression is taken of the mouth and then plastic is molded around the impression. Custom-made mouth guards provide the best protection and are the most comfortable to wear because they fit precisely in the mouth and are more likely to stay in place.
“Boil and Bite” Mouth guards
Also known as self-adapted mouth guards, these mouth guards are molded to the mouth by boiling the guard in water and then allowing the wearer to bite down on the heated plastic. Although these offer a somewhat customized fit, boil and bite mouth guards are not as strong as custom mouth guards and do have a chance of bite-through problems. Self-adapted mouth guards are moderately priced.
Stock mouthguard
Stock mouthguards offer basic protection by fitting loosely over the teeth. Although they are the most affordable option, these guards can make it difficult to breathe or speak because teeth must be clenched to keep the mouth guard in place.
It’s important for children and adults to wear their mouth guards during both practice and games. Be sure to discuss this with Dr Amin at your next check-up and cleaning. Click here to learn about having a pain-free wisdom teeth recovery after surgery.