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Mouthguard FAQ's

What is a Mouthguard?

A mouthguard is a flexible appliance that is worn in athletic and recreational activities to protect teeth from trauma. The dental profession unanimously supports the use of mouthguards in a variety of sports activities.

Why should I wear a mouthguard?

A mouthguard can prevent serious injuries such as broken teeth, jaw fractures, cerebral hemorrhage and neck injuries by helping to avoid situations where the lower jaw gets jammed into the upper jaw. Mouthguards are effective in moving soft tissue in the oral cavity away from the teeth, preventing laceration and bruising of the lips and cheeks, especially for those who wear orthodontic appliances. They may also reduce the severity and incidence of concussions.

In what sports should I wear a mouthguard?

Anytime there is a strong chance for contact with other participants or hard surfaces, it is advisable to wear a mouthguard. Players who participate in basketball, softball, football, wrestling, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, in-line skating and martial arts, as well as recreational sports such as skateboarding and bicycling, should wear mouthguards while competing.

Mouthguards protect against which injuries?

Mouthguards protect against injuries to the lips, teeth, cheeks and tongue and reduce the incidence and severity of injuries during practice and competition. They also help protect against jaw fractures and neck injuries and may also reduce the severity and incidence of concussions.

Why don't kids wear mouthguards?

Parents are sometimes uninformed about the level of contact and potential for serious dental injuries involved with sports in which the child participates. Some, though not all, schools reinforce the health advantage of mouthguards for their contact sports.

What are the different types of mouthguards?

Stock mouthguard: The lowest cost option is a ready-made, stock item, which offers the least protection because the fit adjustment is limited. It may interfere with speech and breathing because this mouthguard requires that the jaw be closed to hold it in place. A stock mouthguard is not considered acceptable as a facial protective device.

Mouth-formed mouthguard: There are two types of mouth-formed mouthguards. The first is a shell- liner mouthguard that is made with an acrylic material that is poured into an outer shell, where it forms a lining. When placed in an athlete's mouth, the protector's lining material molds to the teeth and is allowed to set. Another type is a thermoplastic, or "boil-and-bite," mouthguard. This mouthguard is softened in hot water and then placed in the mouth and shaped around the teeth by using finger, tongue and sometimes biting pressure.

Custom-made mouthguard: The best choice is a mouthguard custom-made by your dentist. It offers the best protection, fit and comfort level because it is made from a cast to fit your teeth.

Mouthguard may harbor bacteria

Mouthguards harbor large numbers of bacteria, yeasts and molds that can possibly lead to life and/or health-threatening infectious/inflammatory diseases. Everything that a microorganism needs to survive, including food and water, can be found in a mouthguard,. While mouthguards appear solid, they are very porous, like a sponge, and with use, microorganisms invade these porosities.

Although a mouthguard is recommended to prevent permanent damage to the mouth and teeth, we know it also has the potential to be a reservoir for bacteria that can cause gum infections or the bacteria that help promote tooth decay.

There are warning signs that can alert athletes that he or she may be suffering from a contaminated mouthguard. Those include "difficulty breathing, wheezing, diarrhea and nausea to the point of vomiting.

How should I care for a mouthguard?

• Brush teeth before wearing a mouthguard.
• Clean your mouthguard by washing it with soap and cool (not hot) water.
• Never share a mouthguard with teammates.
• During sporting events, have a backup mouthguard.
• Purchase disposable mouthguards.
• Clean mouthguards with mouthwash before storing them.
• Keep your mouthguard in a well-ventilated, plastic storage box when not in use. Make sure the box has several holes so the mouthguard will dry.
• Heat is bad for a mouthguard, so don't leave it in direct sunlight or in a closed automobile.
• Don't bend your mouthguard when storing.
• Call your dentist if there are any problems.