Dr. Patrick A. Palma                                          
          2011 All Rights Reserved                                                 Address:    620 Commercial Street     Mingo Junction, Ohio 43938                        Phone ( 740 ) 535 - 0600

Dr. Patrick A. Palma

Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
( 740 ) 535 - 0600

Mouthguards

Every person regardless of age, playing sports that involve contact or 

It is estimated by the National Youth Sports Foundation that more than

 

Did you know that the most injured area of the body during contact sports is the mouth?

Dental injuries are painful, costly, and permanent. Therefore, any athlete, from Olympian to kids playing hockey on the street, should wear a mouthguard and a helmet or headgear.

What is a mouthguard?

A mouthguard is an appliance worn in the mouth which helps prevent injuries to the teeth, lips, cheeks, tongue, and jaw. It should be worn in addition to protective headgear which also protects against injuries to the head and neck.

Choosing a mouthguard:

There are three types of mouthguards that you may choose from.

• Stock or ready-made mouthguards: These are the least expensive type and can be bought at most sports store. They are also the least satisfactory. Although they come in many different shapes and sizes, little can be done to adjust the stock mouthguard to fit your mouth. Many athletes complain that they are too bulky, loose, uncomfortable, and often interfere with breathing and speaking.

• Mouth-formed/self-adapted mouthguards: These are still relatively inexpensive and are available from sports stores. They are molded to fit each individual mouth by boiling the mouthpiece in water and then biting into the warm plastic. They can be refitted if not properly made on the first try. This type of mouthguard can also feel bulky and can cause difficulty with breathing and speaking.

• Custom-made mouthguards: This is the most highly recommended type of mouthguard. It is made at the dental office where it is individually designed and constructed by a dental professional. It is a bit more expensive than the other types but it has an exceptionally good fit. It is comfortable and does not interfere with speech or breathing. 
                                      
  Mouthguards should be worn for all sports