Mouth Guards
MOUTH GUARDS CAN HELP PROTECT TEETH FROM KNOCKS & FALLS
If your child plays sport, it’s good to try to get them “used to” wearing a mouth guard from an early age.
Your child should wear their mouth guard during training sessions, match play & at times when there’s a risk of knocks or falls
THERE ARE 3 TYPES OF MOUTH GUARDS
1. READY-MADE
2. ‘BOIL & BITE ’ which you mold around your child’s teeth & jawbone at home.
3. CUSTOMISED MOUTH GUARD which are made by a dentist. These provide the best protection because they are specifically fitted to your child’s teeth and jaws.
WHAT MAKES A GOOD MOUTH GUARD?
- To provide protection against impact it has to be thick enough (4 mm)
- Fits snugly and is comfortable
- Odourless & Tasteless
- Allows normal breathing and swallowing
- Allows normal speech.
HOW TO HELP KEEP YOUR CHILD’S MOUTH GUARD
STAY CLEAN & IN GOOD SHAPE
- Rinse the Mouth guard in soapy, warm (not hot) water after each use. Allow it to air-dry
- Disinfect the Mouth guard from time to time with a mouthwash
- Keep the Mouth guard in a well-ventilated plastic storage box when not in use. (The container should have several holes in it)
- Do not leave the Mouth guard in direct sunlight, in a closed car or in the car's glove box. Heat can damage it
- Make sure your Mouth guard is in good condition before you use it
- Ask your dentist to inspect your Mouth guard at every Dental check-up
- Replace a child's Mouth guard every 12-18 months, even if it appears to be in good condition, as growth and new teeth can alter the fit
- An adult's Mouth guard should be replaced after dental treatment or tooth loss where necessary, as this may alter the fit. Otherwise, it should last for several years