Contact sports account for almost 40% of all dental injuries in children. Boys have a peak incidence of 8 to 11 years of age and are more likely to suffer an injury than girls.
The most common injuries are to the upper incisors and can result in the permanent, adult tooth/teeth, being discoloured, fractured or lost.
Well-fitted mouth protectors will cover the upper teeth and cushion any blows to the face, drastically reducing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth.
A mouth guard is also essential if you wear braces or a fixed dental appliance on your lower jaw to protect these teeth as well.
Store bought, or “stock”, mouth protectors, though cheaper, come preformed and ready to wear. Unfortunately, one size does not fit all and they usually don’t fit anyone very well. They’re also bulky and can make breathing and talking difficult.
A custom-fitted mouth guard is made specifically for you by your dentist. Yes, they are more expensive, but because they are customised they do a much better job of reducing injuries.
The Dentistry@Markethill team will protect your smile with a professionally made mouthguard.
Our dentists will create a custom-fitted protector specifically designed to offer the highest level of personal protection.
Custom-fitted mouth guards fit more comfortably and securely so they absorb and dissipate energy from direct blows more effectively, reducing potential damage to the teeth as well as jaw fractures.
Finally, a properly fitted mouth protector will stay in place and will make it easier to talk and breathe.
Yes. In fact, it’s especially important that you do so. People who wear braces or have had expensive cosmetic dental work are extremely susceptible to injury and damage to brackets or other fixed orthodontic appliances. The mouth guard will also create a barrier between your braces and your cheek and/or lips to help reduce soft tissue injuries.
The Dentistry@Markethill team will fully assess your situation and prescribe the best solution for you. Normally, mouth protectors only cover the upper teeth but it might be a good idea to use one on the bottom as well- especially if you have braces. Remember, if you have a retainer or other removable appliances, to take them out before playing any contact sports.
82 Main Street,
Markethill,
Co. Armagh,
BT60 1PL
