The air is crisp. Autumn is here. For many kids, this time of year means playing fall sports. Unfortunately, it also means an increased risk of injuring your jaw, mouth, lips, teeth, and/or breaking your braces in some way. What can you do to prevent these types of trauma to your mouth?
Mouthguards work by providing a cushion in between your teeth and gums. The mouthguard absorbs the shock and impact of falls, collisions, and tackles that occur in sports. It also protects your teeth by keeping them in position during contact. Did you know that up to 40 percent of dental injuries are sports-related?
Orthodontists recommend that if you play sports, even non-contact sports, that you wear a mouthguard. There are several options available to you including generic mouthguards that you can purchase for just a few dollars, “boil and bite” mouthguards that mold to your teeth, or customized mouthguards that your orthodontist fits and orders to precisely fit your mouth. We can help you to decide on the best mouthguard for you.
To learn more about caring for your mouthguard, click here.
If you play sports, please mention this to your orthodontist so that we can provide you with the proper protection. After all, you wear a helmet, shoulder pads, wrist guards, and elbow pads, why not protect your smile too?
