What Are Mouth Guard & How They Work
Mouth guards are mouth protection used to protect teeth from damage during physical contact in sports or recreational activities. Mouthguards come in various shapes and sizes and can be custom-fitted for your mouth or bought over the counter. This article will discuss what mouthguards are, how they work, their benefits, and other facts you need to know about mouthguards.
Mouthguards are essential protective equipment for anyone participating in physical contact sports such as football, hockey, soccer, lacrosse, and boxing. They help absorb shock and prevent injuries to the mouth caused by collisions or falls. A well-fitting mouthguard should always be worn when engaging in these activities.
What is a mouthguard?
A mouth guard is a plastic, cushioned device that fits over the mouth and teeth. It acts as a barrier between the mouth and complex objects like balls or other players’ bodies, protecting against injury to the mouth and face. In addition, it helps reduce shock absorbed by the jaw following a collision. Mouth guards are available in both pre-formed styles that fit comfortably into your mouth without further adjustments and custom-fitted versions that provide superior protection and comfort. Both mouthguards should be made from BPA-free material (bisphenol A) for health reasons.
How Do Mouth Guards Work?
Mouth guards work by absorbing shock and preventing damage to the mouth, teeth, and jaw. They are designed to cushion blows from contact sports or recreational activities, reducing the chance of mouth-related injuries such as chipped or broken teeth, tooth loss, soft tissue trauma, and jaw fractures. The mouth guard should fit snugly over your mouth for optimal protection.
Benefits of Wearing a Mouth Guard
Wearing a mouth guard can provide many benefits, including:
- Protecting mouth and dental injuries
- Preventing concussions by absorbing shocks during physical contact
- Helping reduce pain when playing sports that require lots of mouth movement
- Assisting in proper breathing while exercising
- Allowing you to focus on performance without worrying about mouth injuries
- Helping to prevent TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain and discomfort
Essential Facts You Should Know About Mouth Guards
- Wearing a mouth guard is recommended for all contact sports or recreational activities that put your mouth at risk of injury.
- Mouthguards are different for everyone, so get one that fits well and is comfortable in your mouth.
- If you wear braces, you should consult with your orthodontist before selecting a mouth guard to ensure it will fit correctly over them.
- Replace mouth guards regularly as they can become worn out or lose their protective ability over time.
- Be sure to clean mouthguards regularly with toothpaste and mouthwash or follow the instructions on the packaging.
Mouth guards are essential protective equipment for anyone participating in physical contact sports or recreational activities that put their mouth at risk of injury. They are available in both pre-formed styles and custom-fitted versions that provide superior protection and comfort. A mouth guard can protect your mouth from serious injuries such as broken teeth, tooth loss, soft tissue trauma, and jaw fractures. It is essential to replace them regularly, clean them properly, and ensure they fit snugly over your mouth for optimal protection. Get in touch with our staff to know more.