If you or your child regularly participates in a sport, then you know how important it is to always be wearing protective gear. Helmets, kneepads, and shin guards are all common staples, but have you ever stopped to the safety of your teeth? Nearly half of all injuries every year that are related to sports occur in or around the face, after. Dr. Carmen wants to ensure that your smile stays perfectly protected as you enjoy yourself on the field or court – that’s why he’ll be happy to offer you a custom athletic mouthguard at his Norman, OK office!
What exactly is a mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a piece of gear that covers your teeth, as well as your lips, tongue, and jaw. While it may seem obvious to wear one during heavy-contact sports such as boxing or football, the American Dental Association strongly recommends the use of one in nearly all sports, including baseball, martial arts, basketball, gymnastics, bicycling, and much more. There are good reasons for this – mouthguards have been shown to dramatically reduce the amount of mouth-related injuries that occur each year, even helping to reduce the severity of concussions.
There are several types of mouthguards, and Dr. Carmen and his staff can work with you to find the choice that best fits your unique needs. Ready-made mouthguards, mouth-formed mouthguards, and custom-made mouthguards all have their own advantages and disadvantages; that’s why it’s crucial to discuss your concerns with our team before deciding on one. Additionally, remember that mouthguards should be worn during both games and practices, and that they should be regularly brushed and rinsed in order to avoid discomfort.
Contact our Norman, OK office today if you’d like to schedule an appointment! We can’t wait to give you and your family a reason to smile bigger and brighter! We welcome new patients from Moore, the University of Oklahoma, and all over the state.
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