It’s February, and that means National Children’s Dental Month.  So what better time to talk about children and protective mouth guards?  It’s not just those playing ice hockey…. any boy or girl who’s play puts him in a situation in which he could collide with a hard surface (think pavement, ice rink, gym floor…basketball, bicycling, skateboarding, etc.), he needs a mouth guard.

As this wonderful illustration from the Jung von Matt Advertising Agency reminds us, loosing teeth isn’t pretty.  A molded flexible mouth guard covers the upper teeth and cushions blows that might otherwise cause broken teeth, as well as cuts and bruises to the lips, tongue, and inside of cheeks. A mouth guard may even protect against other serious injuries to the head, neck, and jaw fractures.

As this wonderful illustration from the Jung von Matt Advertising Agency reminds us, loosing teeth isn’t pretty.  A molded flexible mouth guard covers the upper teeth and cushions blows that might otherwise cause broken teeth, as well as cuts and bruises to the lips, tongue, and inside of cheeks. A mouth guard may even protect against other serious injuries to the head, neck, and jaw fractures.

A mouth guard is especially important for kids with braces, orthodontic appliances, or dental work; since a blow to the face or mouth could damage the braces’ brackets, etc.  If your child has braces on her lower jaw, the dentist may recommend a mouth guard for bottom teeth as well.

Which Kind of Mouth guard should I get?

• A stock mouth guard is not adjustable and your child must hold it in place by closing his jaw. Stock mouth guards are sold at sporting goods stores and are typically inexpensive. This type is uncomfortable and requires some concentration for a younger child. B If kids don’t like them, they won’t wear them; they also offer the lowest level of protection.

• Boil and bite mouth guards, also found at sporting goods stores. They are heated with hot water, until they become soft, and then inserted into your child’s mouth.  The child bites down and it adapt to the shape of his teeth and jaw. Because it is closer to a custom fit (if you follow the instructions carefully), this kind of mouth guard is more protective and more comfortable.

• Your child’s dentist can provide a Custom-fitted mouth guard, made and designed to fit exclusively. They are more expensive and take about a week to make, but they offer the best protection.

Taking care of your Mouth guard

Keep mouth guards clean.  Recent research shows that your child’s mouth guard, while critical to protect his teeth, may also increase the chance of infection. If the mouth guard becomes jagged or sharp, from biting, it may cause cuts or abrasions in the mouth, which can then lead to infections of the soft tissue.  Have an extra one on hand encase the guard hits the ground mid- game.

• Before and after wearing the mouth guard, Brush your Teeth.
• Using an antimicrobial denture-cleaning solution, Clean the mouth guard daily.
• Store the mouth guard in a well ventilated, hard plastic case.
• Avoid exposing the mouth guard to heat sources (the sun, a closed car, very hot water).
• Warn your child not to share his mouth guard with a teammate; he should avoid handling others’ mouth guards, too.
• Replace the mouth guard if it gets bent or the edges become sharp, or if your child develops an irritation in his mouth.

Sports are fun, and a mouth guard ensures the prettiest of team pictures!