Accidents can happen while participating in sports; however, you can reduce your chances of dental injuries by choosing the proper mouthguard.
What is a mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a removable soft plastic appliance that normally covers the top teeth and is used to protect teeth from injury during athletic activities. Mouthguards are most effective when a dentist takes an impression of the user's teeth and custom fabricates the guard, resulting in a better and more comfortable fit for the athlete.
How does a mouthguard work?
A mouthguard can absorb and deflect the force of a blow to the face and mouth area. Dental injuries are the most common type of injury sustained during participation in sports according to The National Youth Sports Foundation for the Prevention of Athletic Injuries. A mouthguard can help to 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 makes forceful contact with the upper jaw. It also provides a barrier between your teeth and the soft tissue in and around your mouth.
If I wear orthodontic appliances (braces), can I wear a mouthguard?
Yes, the mouthguard can be fabricated around the orthodontic bands, brackets, and wires. It is even more important to protect the soft tissues from compression cuts and abrasions while an athlete is undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Types of mouthguards
Stock mouthguards – Stock mouthguards are the least expensive type of guard and also provide the least amount of protection. They are ready to be used without any further adjustment which can make them the most uncomfortable since they are not custom fit for an individual’s mouth. They are often bulky and athletes cut or alter them to make them more comfortable which reduces the level of protection.
“Boil-n-Bite” mouthguards - Athletes place a “boil-and-bite” guard in their mouth and the protector's lining material molds to the teeth and is allowed to set. The lining of the "boil-and-bite" mouthguard is immersed in boiling water for 10-45 seconds, transferred to cold water and then adapted to the teeth. Even though they are less expensive than custom guards, they do not fit as well and have a shorter life span.
Custom mouthguards - Custom mouthguards provide the greatest level of protection compared to stock or boil-and-bite guards. The design of the mouthguard can be customized for an individual athlete and in some cases for a specific sport for which the mouthguard will be worn. Custom mouthguards are the most comfortable type of mouthguard since a dentist takes an exact impression of an athlete’s teeth. Once the custom mouthguard is made, the dentist can evaluate the guard’s fit and adjust it as necessary.
Athletes should choose a mouthguard that is durable and comfortable. Properly fit mouthguards should not affect your ability to speak or breathe, and should also be easy to clean. Many athletes refrain from the use of a mouthguard fearing it will be very obstructive or noticeable. Custom mouthguards can be fabricated of thin, clear material that is barely noticeable.
Proper Mouthguard Care
Proper care of a mouthguard will ensure the mouthguard is providing the maximum amount of protection and will last longer.
• rinse mouthguard before and after each use
• occasionally clean the mouthguard with toothpaste and a toothbrush
• transport mouthguard in a durable vented case
• do not expose mouthguard to sun or hot water – if distorted by excessive heat, replace
• check for wear and replace mouthguard as necessary as the effectiveness in preventing injury decreases if they become worn
While mouthguards help reduce the risk of dental injuries, accidents may still happen. What should you do in the case of a dental injury?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the following are several tips for dealing with dental emergencies
Bitten Lip or Tongue
Clean the area gently with a cloth and apply cold compresses to reduce any swelling. If the bleeding doesn’t stop or if you question the need for stitches, go immediately to the dentist if available or the nearest emergency room.
Broken Tooth
Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Use cold compresses on the area to keep any swelling down. Call your dentist immediately. Try to save any large tooth pieces and transport them to the dentist in milk.
Cracked Tooth
If you bite down and feel sharp pain that quickly disappears, you may have a cracked tooth. If you continue to feel pain, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and call your dentist immediately.
Jaw-Possibly Broken
Following injury, if your jaw does not close or your teeth do not align as they normally do, you may possibly have a fractured jaw. Apply cold compresses to control swelling. Go to your dentist or a hospital emergency department immediately to evaluate your injury.
Knocked Out Tooth
Hold the tooth by the crown and rinse off the root of the tooth in water if it is dirty. Do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, gently insert and hold the tooth in its socket. Apply enough pressure to reposition the tooth even if painful. Immediate replacement of the tooth brings the greatest chance of success in re-attachment of the tooth. If that isn’t possible, put the tooth in a cup of milk and get to the dentist as quickly as possible. Remember to take the tooth with you! Your dentist must stabilize any tooth re-implanted even if you re-implant it yourself.
Tooth Knocked out of Position or Knocked Loose
These teeth need to be evaluated for broken roots or supporting bone. They also need to be repositioned and stabilized with a splint. See your dentist immediately. Never remove the tooth or any loose pieces before seeing the dentist.
Objects Caught Between Teeth
Try to gently remove the object with dental floss; avoid cutting the gums. Never use a sharp instrument to remove any object that is stuck between your teeth. If you can’t dislodge the object using dental floss, contact your dentist.
Toothache
Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss or an interdental cleaner to ensure that there is no food or other debris caught between the teeth. Never put aspirin or any other painkiller against the gums near the aching tooth because it may burn the gum tissue. If the pain persists, contact your dentist.
It is estimated by the American Dental Association that mouthguards prevent approximately 200,000 injuries each year in high school and collegiate football alone. Protecting your teeth is an important factor in maintaining a strong, healthy smile for a lifetime. But remember, mouthguards are not just for football. Can you imagine your smile without a front tooth?
