When Do You Need a Mouth Guard?

April is National Facial Protection Month, which makes it a great time to discuss the importance of wearing a mouth guard during many activities our children participate in. Each year there are around 7 million sports-related injuries, half of these injuries are sustained by children.

 It is estimated that more than 3 million teeth per year will be knocked out in children that do not wear a mouth guard during sports. This is very easily preventable with an inexpensive mouth guard. Most sporting goods stores sell the "boil and bite" type of mouth guard which works well with or without braces. Not only do mouth guards protect teeth, they also help protect jaws.  

If you or your child choose not to wear a mouth guard, remember that the cost of a mouth guard is significantly cheaper than the cost to repair any injuries to the mouth. Good luck in all your spring sports, and remember to wear your mouth guard!