Did you know that over over 5 million teeth are lost annually in sports-related injuries?
With so many kids and adults that are involved in sports we believe protecting the teeth from possible injury when playing sports should be a priority. There are several over the counter mouthguards; however, these types often don’t give a good fit to keep the teeth protected. According to dentalcare.com in order to have a properly fitted mouthguard the following properties should be found:
It should be fabricated to adequately cover and protect the teeth in the arch and the surrounding tissue.
It should be fabricated on a stone taken from an impression of the athlete.
Adequate thickness in all areas to provide the reduction of impact forces.
An ideal thickness would also be needed to provide absorption of impact energy.
A fit that is retentive and not dislodged on impact.
Speech considerations equal to the demands of the playing status of the athlete.
A material that meets FDA approval.
A properly fitted guard should provide protection and be fabricated to fit on the leading arch.
“The properly fitted mouthguard should be routinely and professionally examined for fit and function.” (dentalcare.com)
We as dental professionals want to provide the upmost care for patients in all aspects of health including sports related mouth injuries. If you are playing sports and not currently wearing a mouthguard please see your dental professional to have a correct fitting mouthguard made.
