DENTAL INJURIES CAN BE VERY COSTLY
A mouthguard not only helps minimise dental injury but can also reduce the severity of concussion whilst playing contact sports. Sport, leisure and recreation activities are the most common cause of dental injuries. Accidents when cycling, skateboarding and scooter riding account for about 44 per cent of dental injuries Team sports such as football, boxing, basketball, netball, cricket, hockey and soccer account for up to 14 per cent of dental injuries. Any sport where contact with equipment, collision with other players or falling is possible (even accidentally) carries a risk of dental injury.
Mouthguards act as a shock absorber for teeth and jaw dental injuries are the most common type of mouth and facial injury in sport. The treatment of dental injuries can take many months and can be costly. If the participants are involved in sports where they are at risk of a blow to the head or face from either opponents or equipment they should wear a properly fitted mouth guard.
A mouth guard correctly fitted by a dental prosthetist will protect teeth, stop biting onto the lips and act as a cushioned layer between teeth to reduce the risk of concussion and jaw fracture. Dental injuries can be painful, disfiguring and expensive to treat. Dental injuries may result in time off work or school to recover, and lengthy (and expensive) dental treatment. A mouthguard, custom-fitted by a dental prosthetist and worn every time you play or train, will protect against dental injury. Custom mouth guards are made by your dental prosthetist to fit the teeth and gums closely. He is also able to accurately assess your mouth and provide the best fitting mouthguard that is most appropriate for you and therefore offer greater comfort and protection than pre-fabricated mouth guards.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR MOUTHGUARD
- Rinse the mouthguard in soap and warm (not hot) water after each use.
- Allow it to air-dry. Disinfect the mouthguard from time to time with a mouthwash.
- Keep the mouthguard in a well-ventilated plastic storage box when not in use. The box should have several holes in it.
- Do not leave the mouthguard in direct sunlight, in a closed car or in the car’s glove box. Heat can damage it. Ensure your mouthguard is in good condition before each use.
- Ask your dentist to inspect your mouthguard at every dental check-up.
- Replace the mouthguard if it is damaged.
- Replace a child’s mouthguard every 12 to 18 months, even if it appears to be in good condition. Growth and new teeth can alter the fit.
- Replace an adult’s mouthguard after dental treatment or tooth loss. Otherwise it should last for several years.