Hang On To That Toothy Grin
Studies have linked almost a third of dental injuries to sports-related activities.
The Ontario Minor Hockey Association took a giant step forward in 2002 by instituting a requirement that intra-oral mouth guards must be worn by every player in the league.
A mouth guard is an appliance worn in the mouth which helps prevent injuries to the teeth, lips, cheeks, tongue and jaw. It should be worn in addition to protective headgear which also protects against injuries to the head and neck. Mouth guards play an important role in helping to prevent concussions and other brain injuries.
According to Dr. Sol Laski, a Markham-area Orthodontist, “the public should know that there are many different types of mouth guards, and advises that especially for those who have had extensive and expensive dental work, they should get a custom-fitted mouth guard.” Dr. Laski also recommends a type of mouth guard that can easily be remoulded in hot water for children whose teeth are shifting due to braces or who are losing baby teeth and getting new adult teeth.
According to the OMHA, acceptable mouth guards must:
• Be any colour, but not clear or translucent
• Be of one-piece construction
• Be easily sized by the player or player’s parents
• Be of an even thickness from the front to the back of the device
• Engage the teeth of the upper and lower jaw
• Maintain a neutral position and alignment of the upper and lower jaw
• Attached externally to the face mask or shield of the helmet, or be form-fitted or custom-fitted to the teeth
• In the case of non-contact play, provide not less than one millimetre of shock absorbent thickness between the teeth of the upper and lower jaw of a player
• Provide not less than two millimetres of shock absorbent thickness between the teeth of the upper and lower jaw, if worn during contact sports
A mouth guard should also:
• Remain in place during sports activity (a well-fitted mouth guard will provide this, but if the mouth guard does not fit properly, it may be knocked out easily)
• Not interfere with breathing or speech
• Be comfortable to wear
• Be easy to clean
Caring for your mouth guard:
• Rinse under cold water after each use
• Occasionally clean your mouth guard in a solution of soap and cool water
• Store it in a sturdy, vented container so it won’t get damaged or lost
• Like any other sports gear, mouth guards can tear or wear out. It’s wise to replace them after each sports season
Anyone who participates in a sport that carries a risk of injury should wear a mouth protector. This includes a wide range of sports including football, hockey and basketball, to name a few. A full range of mouth guards is available – one of which will meet the particular needs of each player.
Resources: Ontario Minor Hockey Association (www.omha.net) Jerry Klein, R.D.T, Dr. Sol Laski.
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