Many families are getting ready for new sports and activities this season, and some may not realize the potential dangers. More than 80 percent of sports-related emergency room visits involve children ages 5 to 14, according to the Centers for Disease Control, and many can be prevented by wearing the proper protective gear. It is important for parents to be aware of the potential for injury, and to take appropriate preventative measures.According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), a top reason why many preventable injuries to the face and mouth occur is due to parents’ lack of knowledge about which sports and skill levels will benefit from protective gear.
When is it necessary to wear a mouth guard?
Mouth guards should be worn while participating in any sport or activity where the mouth might come into contact with a hard object or the ground. This includes football, wrestling, basketball, baseball, volleyball, lacrosse, ice and field hockey, softball and soccer. Mouth guards can help prevent injuries to the jaws, mouth, teeth, and possibly even the neck and central nervous system.
Can you wear a mouth guard over braces?
While wearing braces, your orthodontist can recommend a type of mouth guard designed to accommodate braces or other orthodontic appliances. It should cover over the braces to prevent irritation inside the mouth, as well as cushion between the top and bottom teeth to protect the teeth, jaws and skull. Parents and coaches should be aware that removable bracket covers that some orthodontists give to their patients to prevent irritation are not equivalent to a mouth guard, and should not be used instead of one. It’s also important to take out removable orthodontic appliances during sports and certain activities as instructed by your orthodontist.
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