Students are engaging in sports at an early age with rigor, strength, speed and commitment. Protecting teeth with mouth guards offers many long term benefits.
Mouth guards help to cushion blows that might otherwise cause broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face or jaw. . Anyone who participates in a sport that carries a significant risk of injury should wear a mouth guard. This includes a wide range of sports like football, hockey, basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, volleyball, martial arts and cheerleading. Mouth guards are also recommended for recreational activities like skateboarding and roller blading.
Types of mouth guards: the ready-made, or stock mouth guard; the mouth-formed "boil-and-bite" mouth guard; and the custom-made mouth guard made by your dentist. All three mouth guards provide protection, but they vary in comfort and cost. The most effective mouth guard should be flexible, tear-resistant, and comfortable. It should fit properly, be durable and easy to clean, and not restrict speech or breathing or drinking. Your child's dentist can suggest the right mouth guard for him or her.
Since 31 percent of all sporting injuries result in injury to the teeth, mouth or head area, a properly fitting mouth guard is an important piece of athletic gear. Ask the school hygienist about a new West Shore School District program for securing a sports mouth guard.