Protecting Your Pearly Whites
Picture a hockey player. Along with the hockey stick, shoulder pads, and skates, are there two holes where the front teeth used to be?
Sometimes, it may seem like losing a tooth is a natural part of playing sports. But it doesn't have to be this way. Your teeth need protecting—regardless of the sport or activity.
Guard Against Injury to Your Mouth
The best way to protect your teeth while playing sports is to wear a mouth guard. According to the American Dental Association, a mouth guard can help prevent broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face, or jaw.
What to look for in a mouth guard:
- Flexibility
- Tear-resistant
- Comfortable fit
- Proper fit
- No restriction on speech or breathing
Types of Mouth Guards
- Ready-made—Also called stock-mouth protectors, these can be purchased at most sporting goods stores and are preformed and ready to wear. They are the least expensive, but also the least effective.
- Mouth-formed —Also called boil-and-bite mouth protectors, this type can be purchased at most sporting goods stores and may fit better than the ready-made option. The protector is softened in hot water, then inserted into the mouth and allowed to adapt to the shape of your mouth.
- Custom-made—This type is made by your dentist for you personally. It is more expensive than the other two types, but because it is customized, it usually has the best fit.
There is some variation in mouth guards, so choose carefully. Also, you may want to discuss your options with your dentist.
RESOURCES:
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
http://www.aaoms.org
The American Dental Association
http://www.ada.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Dental Association
http://www.cda-adc.ca/
Canadian Dental Hygienists Association
http://www.cdha.ca/
References:
Mouthguards. American Dental Association website. Available at: http://www.ada.org/public/topics/mouthguards.asp. Accessed June 1, 2009.
Last reviewed January 2009 by Laura Morris-Olson, DMD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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