Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Why Should You Wear a Mouthguard?

Braces can be a great way to fix your smile, but some precautions must be taken to make sure your smile stays that way. Mouthguards are crucial to your health and safety. They not only protect your teeth but they prevent concussions and other head injuries. 

Originally thought to be just a small head trauma, information about the effects of the concussions have come to light over the past few years. Concussions can lead to memory loss, depression, and headaches. Helmets help, but mouthguards make a true difference, especially for those sports without helmets.

However, just wearing a mouthguard will not fully protect you. The mouthguard must be properly fitted and molded to your mouth, just like braces! Otherwise, they might not be as effective.  Today, many dentists and orthodontists have begun to make custom mouthguards for young athletes. One Ohio dental assistant stated:

The No. 1 cause of concussions is not wearing a mouth guard. Athletes who don’t wear mouth guards, particularly hockey, football or any high-impact sport, when the player gets hit, the lower jaw bangs into the upper jaw and that consequently is what causes a concussion.  Custom, lab-processed mouth guards will prevent it nine times out of 10.

Be sure to ask your dentist or orthodontist to be fitted for a mouthguard, especially if you have braces. 

To schedule an appointment with Tina Reed Orthodontics, call us today at (412) 421-8565!

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