Mouth Guards​

Mouth guards generally fit inside the mouth but offer protection to the whole area, including the jaw, tongue, teeth, lips and, to some extent, the cheeks. A blow to the face with enough force can tear soft tissue, break or dislodge teeth, and throw the jaw out of alignment. Mouth guards help protect you by preventing the sharp surfaces of your teeth from ripping into the delicate tissues of the interior of your mouth and cheeks. If you're wearing braces or a bridge, a mouth guard can also cover these devices and keep them from damaging surrounding tissue.

 

Mouth guards also minimize the effects of concussions and other head injuries, particularly those sustained in contact sports. Mouth Guard Styles Most mouth guards are made of pliable plastic that fit over and around your teeth and fit all or partially inside the mouth.

 

There are variations in style and material depending on what your needs are, but in general, they will be

one of three common designs:

 

• Custom fitted mouth guards are made by a dentist, providing excellent protection because they are custom molded to your teeth and mouth. These offer excellent protection to your mouth and jaw line.

​

• For a fit that's still quite good, the most common mouth guards are made of a plastic that is softened in hot water, allowing you to mold the guard to your teeth for a secure fit. Most student athletes use this form of guard. • Pre-shaped mouth guards are the least attractive option because there is such variation in the size of the teeth and the shape of the mouth between individuals. These ready-made mouth guards can be uncomfortable and are knocked out of place easily because they often don't fit well.