
Athletic activities can put teeth and orthodontic appliances at risk—especially for young patients. If you or your child participates in sports, a custom-fitted sports mouth guard is essential for preventing injury. In fact, athletes who wear mouth guards are up to 60 times less likely to suffer oral injuries compared to those who don’t.
A properly fitted mouth guard provides long-lasting protection when it is used, stored, and cared for correctly. The ideal mouth guard should be:
Easy to clean
Resistant to tearing
Comfortable to wear
Non-restrictive to speech or breathing
1. Cleaning
Brush your mouth guard with a toothbrush and toothpaste before and after each use. This removes bacteria and keeps it feeling fresh.
2. Rinsing
Periodically clean and rinse the mouth guard using mild soap and lukewarm water to remove debris and keep it hygienic.
3. Storage
When not in use, store the mouth guard in a sturdy, ventilated case. This helps prevent it from being crushed or damaged.
4. Replacement
Over time, mouth guards wear out and may lose their protective qualities. Monitor your device for signs of damage and consult your dentist about when to replace it.
If you’re unsure whether you or your child needs a mouth guard—or if you need help selecting or caring for one—don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. Protecting your smile is part of staying safe and healthy on the field!