With over 30 years of family dentistry experience, the team at Lowitz & Meier, a Cincinnati, OH-based dentist office, knows the damage that can be done to teeth, lips, cheeks, and even the skull due to oral injuries. Oral injuries are particularly common in children, teens, and young adults who participate in high-impact or contact sports.

An estimated 20 to 25 million children participate in competitive sports in the United States. While injuries are common in most sports, the American Dental Association reports that between 10% and 20% of all sports-related injuries for children and adolescents occur in the jaws and face. One simple way to protect your child or teen to is invest in a mouthguard.

Stock Mouthguards

These mouthguards can be found at any pharmacy or sporting goods store. They offer basic protection for the mouth, but can be uncomfortable and will not fit as well as a customized mouthguard.

Formed Or “Boil & Bite” Mouthguards

These are an affordable, customizable alternative to the stock mouthguard. Boil and bite mouthguards are formed by first boiling the appliance, then squishing the mouthguard around the wearer’s teeth and gums. As the mouthguard cools, it molds to fit the mouth of the wearer, providing a more comfortable alternative to the stock mouthguard.

Custom Mouthguards

Custom mouthguards are typically made in a dentist office by taking a mold of the wearer’s mouth. These appliances are the most expensive, but are considered a valid investment; their comfortable nature increases the likelihood that they will be used appropriately.

Many fall and winter sports, including football and hockey, require that participants wear a mouthguard to protect from injury. It is also recommended that children and adolescents wear mouthguards when there is a risk of high impact from either a ball or another player. To learn more about protecting your children and teens from oral injury, or to make an appointment at the Lowitz & Meier dentist office, visit their website, or call (513) 521-8900.