Why You Should Wear a Mouth Guard

Sports Related Injuries

There is nothing more EPIC than winning the big game! But did you know that sports-related dental injuries are one of the most frequent causes of damaged braces and orthodontic appliances – especially when it comes to high-contact sports? A facial hit puts you at a high risk of breaking your braces or causing a mouth, teeth, gums, or tongue injury. That all sounds pretty scary, but do not hang up your cleats just yet. The way to prevent mouth injuries or damage to your braces is pretty simple – mouthguards.

 

Guard Your Smile Against Sports-Related Dental Injuries

The National Youth Sports Safety Foundation (NYSSF) estimates that players who do not wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to damage their teeth during competition. Mouthguards cushion the blow whenever a facial hit is experienced and significantly reduce the risk of broken brackets or wires. Preventing broken teeth or other potential injuries is another benefit of wearing a mouthguard during high-contact or extreme sports. Some kids do not like the idea of wearing a mouthguard, but even just one injury to your mouth can extend your orthodontic treatment time.

 

The Perfect Fit

You may expect a mouthguard to be bulky or uncomfortable. To be honest with you; the one-size-fits-all mouthguards that you get at a sporting goods store probably are not very comfortable. But guess what – we offer custom-fitted mouthguards made just for you! A well-fitting mouthguard not only protects your mouth, teeth and braces, but they can do it comfortably. We understand that kids are not going to wear something that does not feel good – and especially if it interferes with their athletic performance. That is why we highly encourage a custom-fitted mouthguard rather than a generic one off the shelf.

 

Guard Your Guard 

Once you get your mouthguard, it is important to take care of it. Here are a few tips:
    • Never boil it to try and adjust the fit! Since it is made specifically for you, there is no need to do this. You risk melting, warping, or damaging it.
    • Keep it clean! Wash your mouthguard regularly with dish soap and warm water.
    • Keep it in its case! When not wearing it, keep your mouthguard in its case so it does not get lost or damaged.

Game On!

Just like you wear a helmet, pads, or other safety gear when playing sports, think of your mouthguard as part of your protective gear. We know that sports injuries are common and that accidents happen. If you experience broken, damaged, or painful braces as a result of an injury, contact us as soon as possible so we can get you back on track…or the court, or the field.

3M Clarity AAO Invisalign

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