Accidents can happen with no warning, especially if you play sports. Although you may never expect it to happen to you, 1 in 6 Americans experiences a dental emergency annually. An estimated 10% of athletes will suffer a dental or facial injury during any given athletic season. If you wear braces, injuries can be more severe because of your brackets and wires. You don’t have to stop playing sports until your braces come off. Instead, here’s how you can keep your treatment plan on track and safeguard your pearly whites with an athletic mouthguard.
Protection of an Athletic Mouthguard
13% to 39% of dental emergencies are sports-related. A friendly game of football, an afternoon riding a bike, or tossing around a baseball can lead to a dental injury. A mouthguard is a simple solution to protect your smile. It’s worn over your teeth to absorb the force of impact on your mouth. Not only will it protect your teeth and gums, but it will also lessen the risk of damaging your braces.
A blow to the mouth can break a wire or cause a bracket to pop off, which can injure the inside of your mouth. A mouthguard will give your smile and braces a layer of protection. It can even reduce your risk of jaw injuries and concussions, but don’t choose just any mouthguard.
Those available over-the-counter aren’t made of the best materials, which can compromise the protection they offer. Not to mention, if they don’t fit correctly, they can increase your risk of serious dental injuries if there’s an accident. Instead, visit your dentist for an athletic mouthguard. They’ll ensure it fits your mouth like a glove using high-quality materials that are designed for maximum protection.
Keep Your Mouthguard Clean
Commit to wearing your mouthguard anytime you participate in an activity that may lead to an oral injury. Don’t forget to clean your mouthguard after every use. Plaque and bacteria can accumulate on it, increasing your risk of decay, infections, and other preventable issues. Clean your mouthguard using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild dishwashing liquid or hand soap. Let it air dry before placing it in a protective case.
Don’t Wait to Contact Your Dentist
Although mouthguards are effective at reducing the risk of dental emergencies, accidents can still happen. Don’t wait to contact your dentist if you experience an oral health emergency, including any damage to your braces. Your dentist will provide the quick care you need to save your smile and get your treatment plan back on track.
About Dr. Manal Kazi
Dr. Kazi earned her dental degree at Rutgers and has regularly continued her education in many specialties, including CEREC technology and Invisalign. She is a proud member of many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the New Jersey Dental Association. Request an appointment through her website or call (973) 233-4603.