While the American Dental Association (ADA) reports that athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer harm to their teeth when not wearing a mouth guard, it plays a crucial role in preventing oral health and even head injuries both on and off the playing field. Given this, Delta Dental of Arizona is dispelling the most common myths about mouth guards:
Myth 1: Only Athletes Need Mouth Guards. While it’s true that athletes should wear them to protect their teeth during sports, they aren’t the only ones who can benefit. People who grind or clench their teeth at night use night guards—a type of custom-fit mouth guard— to prevent tooth damage and reduce jaw pain.
Myth 2: Mouth Guards Are Uncomfortable. Another myth about mouth guards is that they are uncomfortable and hard to wear. While it’s true that some store-bought mouth guards can be a bit bulky and fit poorly, there are different types available. Custom-fit mouth guards, which you get from your dentist, are made to fit your mouth perfectly. They are usually more comfortable and easier to wear, even though they cost a bit more. A great, budget-friendly alternative for athletes is a boil-and-bite mouth guard. Some brands can even be reshaped if your teeth move. And better yet, some can accommodate braces!
Myth 3: Mouth Guards Don’t Need Cleaning. Mouth guards can collect bacteria, food particles and plaque, just like your teeth even with only occasional use. It’s important to clean your mouth guard regularly to keep it fresh and hygienic. Rinse it with water after each use and clean it with a toothbrush and toothpaste regularly.
Myth 4: Mouth Guards Are Indestructible. When a mouth guard gets too worn out, it might not fit right anymore, which means it won’t protect your teeth like it should. That’s why it’s important for both adults and children to replace their mouth guards when it becomes too loose, showing signs of damage, if it changes in color or if you develop mouth sores because of a loose and rocking appliance. Keeping your mouth guard in good shape means your teeth stay safe and protected.
Myth 5: Mouth Guards Can’t Be Worn with Braces. Wearing a mouth guard over braces is important. If you get hit in the face, a mouth guard can prevent your braces from cutting your lips or cheeks. It also helps protect your teeth from getting damaged. Wearing a mouth guard can make playing sports safer and more comfortable, even with braces on. It’s a simple way to keep your mouth safe while staying active.
Myth 6: Mouth Guards Don’t Prevent Concussions. Mouth guards can help prevent concussions by cushioning the impact to your head and jaw during sports. When you get hit in the face or jaw, the force can cause damage to your brain, resulting in a concussion. A mouth guard absorbs some of this force, reducing the risk of a concussion.
Myth 7: Mouth Guards Are Expensive. What’s great is that mouth guards are offered at different prices, so there’s something for every budget. Some mouth guards are custom-made by dentists and can cost more, but there are also many affordable options you can buy at a store or online. These over-the-counter mouth guards can still provide good protection for your teeth and jaw.
Myth 8: Mouth Guards Must Cover Back Molars. Mouth guards can still protect your teeth and jaw even if they don’t cover your back teeth. Some mouth guards are designed to cover just the front teeth and still do a great job of cushioning impacts. The important thing is that the mouth guard fits well and stays in place during activities. So, even if a mouth guard doesn’t cover your molars, it can keep your mouth safe.
There is now a Delta Dental Athletic Mouth Guard available designed with twice the impact absorption of traditional mouth guards. They have a patented fitting material that makes speaking, drinking and breathing easier while providing a remoldable, braces-friendly fit. Enjoy a 50% discount on your purchase at the Delta Dental store. Just use the code RAK50 at checkout.
Visit store.deltadental.com to shop now and save.
Dr. Heather Schneider is the dental director at Delta Dental of Arizona and has more than 20 years of experience in dental administration, dental education and clinical dentistry.
