Mouth guards: A smart choice Published July 28, 2009 By Staff Sgt. Sterling Aretha 22nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- It's easy to take some things for granted until they're gone. Have you ever thought about how it would feel if you lost one or two of your front teeth? You may avoid smiling. It could be uncomfortable talking with someone face-to-face and it could be more difficult to pronounce certain words. Until your teeth are gone, you might not miss them. Thousands of children get hurt every year on the playing field and basketball court, or while doing activities such as biking or skateboarding. A facial injury in any sport can injure your teeth, lips, cheeks and tongue. A properly fitted mouth guard, or mouth protector, is an important piece of athletic gear that can protect your teeth. New findings in sports dentistry show that even in non-contact sports, such as gymnastics, mouth guards help protect teeth. Many experts recommend a mouth guard be worn for any recreational activity that poses a risk of injury to the mouth. There are three types of mouth guards: the ready-made, or stock, mouth guard; the mouth-formed "boil and bite" mouth guard, and the custom-made mouth guard made by your dentist. All three guards provide protection but vary in comfort and cost. The most effective mouth guard has several features. It should be resilient, tear-resistant and comfortable. It should fit properly, be durable and easy to clean, and not restrict your speech or breathing. Generally, a mouth guard covers only the upper teeth but in some cases the dentist will instead make a mouth guard for the lower teeth. Your dentist can suggest the right mouth guard for you. If you have a mouth guard, take good care of it: - Before and after each use, rinse it with cold water or with an antiseptic mouth rinse. Clean it with toothpaste and a toothbrush. - When it's not used, place your mouth guard in a firm, perforated container. This permits air circulation and helps prevent damage. - Avoid high temperatures, such as hot water, hot surfaces or direct sunlight, which can distort the mouth guard. - Check it for tears, holes and to see whether it has become loose. A mouth guard that's torn or in bad shape can irritate your mouth and lessen the amount of protection it provides. - Have regular dental checkups and bring your mouth guard with you so the dentist can make sure it's still in good condition. Don't take your teeth for granted. Protect your smile. Wear a mouth guard.