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Why Wear a Mouthguard

If you or your child plays contact sports you’re probably curious to know more about mouthguards and why you should wear a mouthguard. Mouthguards, also known as mouth protectors, are thin soft pieces of plastic that fit over the teeth to protect and cushion your teeth and jaw from possible force or trauma during activities such as sports.

Preventing Injury is Important

According to the American Dental Association, over 200,000 oral and dental injuries are prevented every year because of the use of protective sports mouthguards. The National Youth Sports Foundation says damage to teeth is 60 times more likely for athletes who don’t wear a mouthguard. The risk of a sports related injury to the teeth or mouth can be greatly minimized by the proper use of a mouthguard or mouth protector.

All athletes who participate in contact sports can benefit from the use of a mouthguard, but they are often not worn because they are not required in order to participate. Helmets and pads are required in order to participate in sports like hockey and football, yet dental injuries are the most common type of facial injury and there is often no required protection for the teeth or jaw.

Mouthguards can be a Budget Friendly Solution

Considering why you should wear a mouth guard could save you thousands of dollars in the long run. Mouth guards can save you money by preventing the need for dental or medical treatment or surgery due to injury. Mouthguards can be a simple, inexpensive and easy way to save you from losing time playing the sport you love, and keeping your mouth healthy and protected from injury.

Where to Get Your Mouthguard

Mouthguards can be found in most sporting goods stores and can differ a lot in price and quality, but your dentist may also create a custom molded mouth guard for you. Custom mouthguards are going to be the most comfortable and protective because they are of higher quality materials and made specifically to fit only you.

Talking to your dentist about mouthguards and why you should wear a mouthguard may help you decide what kind is right for you or your child and when it is important to wear it for sports and other activities.

Call our Fairbanks Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.

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