xtremely painful, especially with braces. Just because someone has braces doesn’t mean that they can’t take part in sports. It does mean that a mouthguard should definitely be a part of their athletic gear.
Studies have shown that athletes, even school age ones, are 60 times more prone to suffer mouth and dental damage if they don’t wear a mouthguard. While contact and collision sports like boxing and football are higher risk, dental injuries can happen in non-contact sports like baseball, skating and gymnastics as well.
Injuries Experienced without the Use of Mouthguards
Mouthguards help cushion a blow to the face, reducing the risk of shattered teeth, a fractured jaw and other facial injuries to soft issues, including the tongue, lips and cheek lining. Other forms of potential dental traumas that can occur if a mouthguard isn’t used include fractured bridgework or crowns and root damage. These oral injuries can be avoided by wearing a mouthguard and it is especially important if you have braces and participate in organized sports.
Types of Mouthguards
Choosing the appropriate mouthguard is crucial. There are three types of mouthguards – pre-made, the “boil-and-bite” and the custom fitted mouthguards orthodontist’s design.
When considering mouthguards, be sure to choose one that is tear-resistant, that fits comfortably in your mouth and that doesn’t inhibit breathing. You can purchase pre-made and “boil-and-bite” mouthguards at sporting goods stores. Custom-made mouthguards provide the best protection against mouth injuries.
At E&S Orthodontics we have a wide range of mouthguards suited for a variety of sports including baseball, softball, football, basketball, soccer and lacrosse. As your orthodontist, we’ll show you how to choose the right mouthguard to protect your smile and how to wear it properly.
Sports related injuries to the mouth and jaw are among the most common suffered by athletes of all ages. It is our goal is to help reduce your chances of having one of these injuries cause damage to your beautiful smile.
If you’d like to know more about mouthguards, contact our office a call today. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.
