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Mouthguards
The importance of mouthguards:
To protect the mouth and teeth from serious injury, a mouthguard, usually a flexible piece of plastic that fits into the mouth, should be worn during all recreational and athletic activities - especially activities where there is contact or potential contact with another person, piece of equipment, or the ground. In particular, mouthguards should be worn during the following sports:
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- Football.
- Soccer.
- Rugby.
- Wrestling.
- Baseball.
- Softball.
- Lacrosse.
- Field hockey.
- Ice hockey.
- Martial arts.
- Boxing.
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Some of these sports require the use of a mouthguard at the amateur level.
Many recreational activities such as skateboarding and bicycling also pose a risk of injuring the mouth and teeth. Exercise caution during these activities. |
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Mouthguards and preventable injuries: |
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Injuries to the teeth, mouth, and head may include the following, many of which could be prevented with proper and consistent use of a mouthguard:
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- Dislodged or knocked out tooth/teeth.
- Broken or chipped tooth.
- Bitten or lacerated tongue and/or lip.
- Objects caught/lodged between the teeth.
- Jaw fracture.
- Neck injury.
- Jaw collision - the lower jaw gets jammed into the upper jaw.
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Types of mouthguards: |
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There are several types of mouthguards that can be used. The following are two of the most common types:
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- Pre-made mouthguards - One type is already made and can be found in most sport stores. There are different types and brands. Choose the one that fits best and is most comfortable.
- Custom-made mouthguards - Your adolescent's dentist can make a mouthguard specifically for your adolescent. These may be more expensive, but usually are more comfortable for the adolescent.
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Consult your adolescent's dentist regarding the best type of mouthguard to use.
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