When we run onto the field or step into the ring, we wear helmets, shin guards, and other safety gear to protect our body, but we often forget to protect our teeth. Every year, more than five million teeth are knocked out from sports-related dental injuries, costing an average of nearly 500 million dollars in dental repairs. So it’s important if you or your child plays physical sports to take additional precautions to prevent sports-related dental injuries. Here are some helpful tips on how to protect your smile.

How to Protect Your Mouth

When you get on the field, depending on the sport you play, you need to wear a protective mouth guard, face mask, or even face cage. Even if you are just stepping in for a quick game with friends, you still want to make sure that your teeth are adequately protected. If you are unsure of what protective gear you need for your child’s sport, speak with your child’s coach or school’s sporting department for recommendations.

Picking A Mouth Guard

One of the most common recommendations by dentists is for athletes to wear a mouth guard. When selecting a mouth guard, first ensure the guard your considering provides protection in impact zones. The impact zones are found under the molars and along the front of the teeth. These impact zones should be lined with a standard minimum of 4mm of cushioning material. To maximize effectiveness in protecting these zones, the mouth guard must fit the mouth correctly. A properly fitted mouth guard stays firmly on the upper teeth without having to be held in place by biting or clenching with the lower jaw. Finally, you want to make sure that any mouth guard you choose is made of a good material and has the ANSI/SAI seal on the package.

The Best Dental Protection

Any mouth guard is better than no protection. However, if you really want to protect you or your children’s teeth, you should have a custom mouth guard made by a dental professional at Tigard Family Dentist. A custom-designed mouth guard that is molded specifically to your mouth is the best way to protect your smile. To make a custom mouth guard, your dentist will take a mold of your teeth before sending it to a laboratory, where the mold will be layered in thermoplastic. Thermoplastic offers much more protection than single-layer mouth guard you buy at the store. A custom-made mouth guard is cost effective compared to any high quality mouth guard you would find at a sporting goods store, and will last much longer.

Though, even with our best efforts to protect ourselves from sports-related dental injuries, sometimes accidents happen. If you or your child’s teeth get damaged or knocked out while playing sports, Tigard Family Dental can help. Our friendly staff will go over your options for repair and replacements to find the right solution for you. Call us today to have a custom mouth guard made or help repair any previous dental injuries. Either way, we’re always here to help!