A mouthguard is easy to forget until equipment is packed for a game. Checking it before the season gives you time to ask about suitability and fit rather than discovering a problem at the event.
Know the purpose
A sports mouthguard helps protect the teeth and mouth during activities where injury can occur. Different products and fitting methods are available. A guard that will not stay in place, feels awkward or interferes with breathing needs attention before the wearer avoids using it.
If you or your child wears braces or has changing teeth, ask a dentist how this affects the choice and when fit should be reviewed.
A pre-season checklist
- Is the guard suitable for this sport or activity?
- Does it still fit correctly?
- Is there damage that should be assessed?
- How should it be cleaned and stored?
- When should it be replaced?
Ask for a demonstration
Have the team show how the guard sits and how to remove it. Make sure a child understands the routine too. Keep its case with sports equipment so it does not become a loose item in a bag. A sports mouthguard and a nighttime grinding appliance have different purposes; do not assume one substitutes for the other. Bring the actual device to an appointment if you are unsure about its use.
Source
Supporting patient information
Educational information for planning a dental conversation; your dental team can advise you about your own care.