Why Your Children Should Always Wear Sport Mouth Guards with Their Braces
Sport is an integral part of society, and nowhere is this more so than in the schools and colleges around the country. Many children and young adults frequently play a form of contact sport, but with this type of activity there is of course a significant risk of physical contact, with damage or injuries. These injuries could occur to the mouth through collisions with other participants, and a bat or ball can give rise to serious dental injuries. If your children already have braces in place, what should you do in these situations in order to safeguard them?
Why Shouldn't Protection Be Optional?
While some schools and organisations do recommend the use of mouth guards, in most situations around the country it's not mandatory. It's a very good idea for parents to insist, however, that children who participate in contact sports do wear a mouth guard, especially if they already wear braces.
Why Are They Recommended?
When you wear a mouthguard, you can avoid cuts to the mouth and gums that could occur if the brace moves upon impact. You can also, potentially, save teeth from being knocked out or reduce any damage to the brace itself and accompanying costs to repair. The good news is that a combination of the brace and a mouthguard should give you even more protection during any impact.
How Are They Made?
The best mouthguards are made from materials that are designed to absorb any impact. They are made from non-toxic materials that are durable and can usually last for at least a full season of competition.
What's the Best Type?
There are many different types of mouthguard, and not all of them are suitable for those with braces. It's best to take advice from an orthodontist as to the most appropriate product in your case. Off-the-shelf items are designed to allow for the presence of the brace and in many situations can be remoulded if needed. It's also possible to get braces that are custom made, which can in turn allow for the movement of teeth as the dental treatment progresses.
How Do You Look After the Mouth Guard?
Remember to look after the guard properly once it's been selected to ensure that it continues to remain effective. You can use conventional mouthwash to rinse the guard out and clean it with a spare toothbrush if needed. Always store it within a purpose-made container in order to avoid any damage.
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