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Mouthguards

What is a mouthguard?

A mouthguard is a flexible appliance made out of plastic that is worn in athletic and recreational activities to protect teeth and jaw joints from trauma.

Mouthguard History

• 1913 - Piece of rubber used in boxing.
• 1939 - Mandatory helmet use in American college football.
• 1960 - The American Dental Association introduced a resolution endorsing the use of mouth protection.
• 1974 - The NCAA passed a rule stating that college football players must wear mouth protection.
• 1976 - The Canadian Amateur Football Association introduced a mandatory mouthguard rule.
• 1983 - Formation of the Academy for Sports Dentistry.
• 1990 - The ADA sent out news releases endorsing the use of mouthguards in sports.

CDA'S position on mouth protection

The Canadian Dental Association recommends rigid, fixed position external mouthguards are the most effective single way of preventing sports injuries to the teeth, gums, and tongue. When playing either football, hockey, or lacrosse, both a fixed external and a fitted internal mouthguard should be worn for most complete protection possible. Even though these mouthguards cost a bit more initially, they are still far less expensive than restoring or replacing injured teeth. The CDA urges you to ensure that adequate head and mouth protection is a basic part of your family's sport equipment.

Why should I wear a mouthguard?

To protect you mouth from injuries. The dental profession unanimously supports the use of mouthguards in a variety of sports activities. More than 200,000 injuries to the mouth and jaw occur each year.

Do mouthguards prevent injuries?

A mouthguard can prevent serious injuries such as concussions, cerebral hemorrhages, incidents of unconsciousness, jaw fractures and neck injuries by helping to avoid situations where the lower jaw gets jammed into the upper jaw.

Mouthguards are effective in moving soft tissue in the oral cavity away from the teeth, preventing lacerations and bruising of the lips and cheeks, especially for those who wear orthodontic appliances.

In what sports should I wear a mouthguard?

Anytime there is a strong chance for contact and other participants or hard surfaces, it is advisable to wear a mouthguard. Players who participate in basketball, softball, wrestling, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, in-line skating, and martial arts as well as recreational sports such as skateboarding, and bicycling should wear mouthguards while competing.

Why don't kids wear mouthguards?

Parents are sometimes uninformed about the level of contact and potential for serious dental injuries involved with sports in which the child participates. Some, though not all schools, reinforce the health advantage of mouthguards for their contact sports. Cost may be another consideration, although mouthguards come in all variety of price ranges.

What are the different types of mouthguards?

Stock mouthguards: The lowest cost option is a stock item, which offers the least protection because the fit adjustment is limited. It may interfere with speech and breathing because this mouthguard requires that the jaw be closed to hold it in place. A stock mouthguard is not considered acceptable as a facial protection device.

Mouth-formed protectors: These mouthguards come as a shell-liner and "boil-and-bite" product. The shell is lined with acrylic or rubber. When placed in an athlete's mouth, the protector's lining material molds to the teeth and is allowed to set.

Custom-made mouth protectors: The best choice is a mouthguard custom-made by your dentist. It offers the best protection, fit and comfort level because it is made from a cast to fit your teeth.

How should I care for a mouthguard?

• Clean your mouthguard by washing it with soap and warm (not hot) water.
• Before storing, soak your mouthguard in mouthwash.
• Keep your mouthguard in a well-ventilated plastic storage box when not in use. Make sure the box has several holes so the mouthguard will be dry.
• Heat is bad for mouthguards, so don't leave it in direct sunlight or a closed automobile. · Don't bend your mouthguard when storing.
• Don't handle or wear someone else's mouthguard.
• Call your dentist who made the mouthguard if there are any problems.