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Why Wearing a Mouth Guard is Important

According to the American Dental Association, approximately one-third of all dental injuries are related to sports. That’s why wearing a mouth guard is crucial to preventing injuries like chipped or broken teeth, lip and cheek injuries, root damage, fractured jaw, and concussions. A mouth guard is a soft laminate or plastic item used specifically to prevent oral injuries. If you play sports or take part in activities that could potentially damage your teeth, a mouth guard is essential. Here are a few reasons why:

Less Chance of Loosened Teeth
If you’re not wearing a mouth guard and an object hits your mouth, it could loosen your tooth or, even worse, break it. Wearing a mouth guard ensures that if an object does hit your mouth, your teeth will be protected and an injury will be less likely.

Minimized Risk of Tooth Fracture
Even if you wear a mouth guard, you can still fracture your tooth. But if it does fracture, the mouth guard will have provided enough cushion that the tooth can typically be saved. For example, if you fracture the crown of your tooth, your dentist can put white filling material into the part that is fractured.

Less Risk of Tooth Loss
It’s a tragedy to lose a tooth because you didn’t wear a mouth guard, especially if it could have been prevented. Even if you lose a tooth that isn’t permanent, it can still lead to problems when your permanent tooth comes in due to the trauma to your primary tooth.

Protects Against Soft Tissue Injuries
The soft tissue in your mouth is protected from your sharp teeth when you wear a mouth guard, preventing bruising and cutting your cheeks, tongue, and lips.

Want to learn more about choosing a mouth guard that’s right for you? Contact Dr. Stanly Hirst, DDS, and Bethany Jensen, DDS, at Broadway Family Dentistry today by calling 701-839-1299 to schedule a check-up.  We are located in Minot, ND and look forward to hearing from you!

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