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Sports injuries are preventable
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Don't be the victim of a preventable injury - wear a mouth guard!
While mouthguards are not mandatory equipment in all sports, their worth is indisputable. Dentists see many oral and facial injuries that might have been prevented by the use of a mouth guard. Facial injuries in nearly every sport can result in damage to your teeth, lips, cheeks and tongue. Mouthguards cushion blows to your face and neck. A mouthguard should be part of every athlete's gear, no matter the sport. It's better to play it safe than have to face a devastating and painful oral injury. Even adults are not free from the dangers of mouth injuries. Dentists treat many trauma injuries in weekend athletes. Whatever your age or sport, mouth guards are an important part of sports safety and your exercise routine. Do what you can to protect your smile and preserve your health. Do’s and don’t’s * Do wear a mouth guard at all times when playing sports * Do inform yourself about the most common oral injuries * Do wear a mouthguard custom-fitted by your dentist, especially if you wear fixed dental appliances such as braces or bridgework * Do not wear removable appliances (retainers, bridge, or dentures - complete or partial) when playing sports What are my choices..? There are three types of mouth guards, custom-made, mouth-formed and ready-made: 1. Custom-made mouthguards are professionally designed by your dentist from a cast model of your teeth. Because they are designed to cover all your back teeth and cushion your entire jaw, they can prevent concussions caused by blows to the chin. These may be slightly more expensive than commercially produced mouthpieces, but they offer the best possible fit and protection. They are more secure in your mouth and do not interfere with your speech or breathing. Calling plays or formations, for instance, will not be impeded by custom-made mouthguards. 2. Mouth-formed guards, often called "boil and bite," should always be fitted by your dentist. This is generally done by shaping a soft pre-formed guard to the contours of the teeth and allowing it to harden. However, these devices are difficult to design for athletes who wear braces and can become brittle after prolonged use. 3. Ready-made, commercial mouthguards can be purchased at most sporting goods stores and are made of rubber or polyvinyl - They are the least expensive but also the least effective. Keep your mouthguard in top shape by rinsing it in water. Do not use denture cleaners. Keep it in a strong rigid box for protection. Remember, your mouthguard will protect one of your vital assets... |
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