News

Athletic Mouth Guards

According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), a mouth guard is a flexible appliance made out of plastic that is worn in athletic and recreational activities to protect teeth from trauma. A properly fitted mouth guard can help prevent serious injuries such as concussions, jaw fractures, and neck injuries obtained while playing many contact sports such as basketball, baseball, gymnastics, volleyball, football, etc. Mouth guards come in a variety of colors and fit over the upper teeth to “cushion” a blow to the face lessening the chances of broken teeth.

Generally, there are three types of mouth guards available: stock, boil and bite, and custom-fitted. Stock mouth guards come pre-formed and are ready to wear right out of the bag. The advantage to this type of appliance is that it is inexpensive. It will often fit poorly, sometimes makes breathing difficult and will not offer much protection to the teeth, face, and jaw.

Boil and bite guards are often sold at sporting good stores as well as major pharmacy chains. The guard is a hard plastic appliance that softens once heated in boiling water. After it is softened, it is then placed into the mouth and bit on (allowing the guard to take the shape of your teeth and mouth). Although, better than the stock guards, they can still be rather bulky and because it is not custom to your mouth, it doesn’t offer as much protection against blows to the face, injuries, etc. Also, with limited directions and possibly never having done the procedure before you may not do it correctly—ultimately causing more harm than good.

Professionally made custom fitted guards are more expensive than the others and require you to visit the office twice, however they offer the most protection while playing any contact sport. On your first visit impressions of your mouth will be taken. This is a quick appointment (generally taking 15 minutes) and can be completed at your cleaning and oral cancer screening appointment if you wish. A few days later, once the appliance has been made, you will return to the office, try in your appliance, and make sure the fit is perfect.

After using your mouth guard, clean it with toothpaste and a toothbrush and return to your case for safe keeping. Pay special attention not to bend, bite, or twist your mouth guard. Never wear anyone else’s and avoid leaving the appliance where it is hot. Please call Dr. Hopgood if you are interested in additional information or if you wish to schedule an appointment.

Advanced Dental Concepts
Richard D. Hopgood D.M.D., M.A.G.D.
296 Lowell Street
Andover, MA 01810
Telephone: 978-475-2431
Email: info@andoverdmd.com