Mouth guards are safeguards for teeth against decay and damage of any sort. They are worn over the teeth to protect them from injury during sports and teeth grinding. Mouth guards are generally used to cover the upper teeth. However, dentists make mouth guards to cover the lower teeth also. An effective and efficient mouth guard must be durable, fit, comfortable, clean and tear resisting. It should not obstruct your speech or breathing.
Three Different Kinds Of Mouth
Guards
Stock mouth protectors are inexpensive and ready-to-wear mouth guards. They are available at most department stores and shops. The only disadvantage of using them is to face difficulty while talking due to their bulkiness. They offer little protection. Dentists do generally not recommend stock mouth protectors.
Custom-fitted Mouth Protectors - These mouth guards are designed in a professional laboratory and dental office. The dentist first, takes a picture of the patient's teeth and gives instructions to mold a custom-fitted mouth protector using a particular material. This sort of mouth guards is more expensive than other types due to the use of a special material. Custom-fitted mouth protectors offer the best protection, fit and most comfort.
Boil and bite mouth protectors - Boil and bite mouth guards are made of thermoplastic material. They provide a better fit and protection than stock mouth guards. It is softened with hot water with hot water.
Benefits Of Using Mouth Guards
A properly fitted mouth guard can prevent fracture and decay of the teeth. It also protects the teeth against damage during physical activity. Mouth guards are much used by athletes during athletics. Athletes who wear no mouth guards are more prone to experience teeth damage than those who use them by 70 times.
Soft tissue of the mouth is moved away from the teeth by mouth guards. It helps protect the cheek, lips and tongue. Using a mouth guard is useful in particular for those who have braces, as the braces may injure the gum or mouth accidentally.
Mouth guards besides being a protection for the mouth, act as shock absorbers. They remove the risk of getting the upper jaw jammed into the lower jaw when a blow occurs to the face, neck or the head. Thus, mouth guards prevent the occurrence of severe complications such as cerebral hemorrhages, unconsciousness, concussions, neck injuries and joint dislocation.
Mouth guards are recommended for patients who are in habit of clenching their teeth. This activity is known as bruxism. This results in many problems such as jaw pain, joint problems and tooth decay. Patients are often advised to use mouth guards while sleeping at night, as the grinding of teeth occurs basically during night hours. They prevent damage to teeth due to grinding; reduce strain on the jaw and ease muscle tension.
Tips To Care For Mouth Guards
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Use a mouth rinse or cold water to
rinse the mouth guard before as well as after its
use.
–
Use a toothbrush and toothpaste to clean it thoroughly.
–
Occasionally use soapy water to wash the mouth
guard.
–
Use a firm and perforated container to store
or keep the mouth guard. This prevents damage to
it.
–
Keep the mouth guard away from the touch of high
temperatures like hot surfaces, hot water or sunlight.
–
Make it a habit to check it thoroughly before
going to wear it. If it is found loose or with tears
or holes in it, you should replace it.
