Mouthguards - everything you need to know
Dr. Forbes Morse has been practicing dentistry in Phoenix since October 2004. He did his undergraduate studies at the University of California at Irvine and received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1996. In 1997, Dr. Morse received his Masters in Public Health from the Medical College of Virginia/ VCU. He then went on... more
Sports dentistry is the treatment and prevention of oral/facial athletic injuries. Dental injuries are actually the most common type of facial injuries sustained during athletic participation.
Mouthguards
A mouthguard is a plastic appliance worn in the mouth during physical activity which helps in preventing injuries to the teeth, tongue, lips, and jaw. Sports-related dental injuries are often very traumatic; not only are they painful, but costly as well. Mouthguards offer excellent protection at a relatively small price. No matter which variety you go with, what's important is that it fits and is comfortable.
It's estimated that an avulsed (knocked-out) tooth will run you between $10,000 -15,000 in dental bills over your lifetime. Not to mention all those enjoyable hours in the waiting room!
The Three Types of Mouthguards
What to Look for in a Mouthguard:
- Comfortable
- Easy to clean
- Provide maximum protection in the incidence of a traumatic force
- Remain in place during sports activity (stock trays are notoriously poor-fitting)
- Not interfere with speech or breathing
Caring for Your Mouthguard:
- Keep it in its container
- Rinse it off after each use
- Clean your mouthguard periodically with soap and water
Do's and Don’ts:
- If you have a mouthguard, wear it
- Don't wear removable appliances such as retainers or dentures when playing sports
- Get your dentist to make you a custom mouthguard if you have any crown or bridgework; protect your investment
Mouthguard Tips:
- Usually, mouthguards should be made for the maxillary (upper) arch. If you have a Class III bite (prognathic bite/ protruding mandible), your mouthguards may have to be made for your lower jaw
- If your child is between the ages of 6 - 12, the mouthguard should be made to allow for the eruption of permanent teeth
- If you currently wear braces, your mouthguard should be modified by your dentist during its fabrication to allow for additional orthodontic movement