Flossing, brushing, and rinsing are done every day to keep mouths clean and breath fresh. But did you know the importance of wearing a mouthguard?
The Why
More than five million teeth are damaged every year, many during sports activities. Wearing a mouthguard prevents injury, reduces chances of concussion and protects teeth from cracking or breaking. They also protect the jaw muscles from injury or teeth clenching and grinding.
The When
Typically, mouthguards are worn during contact sports, but it’s crucial to wear one during other recreational activities, too. These include: biking, skateboarding, rollerblading, martial arts, skiing and weight lifting—or if you feel any activity could lead to an injury to the mouth and teeth.
The How
Your mouthguard needs to be cleaned just like any other piece of sports equipment or safety gear. Keeping your mouthguard clean will prevent bacteria, mold and yeast from entering your body and causing more complex health problems.
- Rinse in water and brush with a toothbrush daily or after each use
- Deep clean using antimicrobial tablets or homemade solutions every week
- Store the mouthguard in a case that has air vents, and clean case weekly
- Replace mouthguard when there are signs of aging/wear
Keeping your mouthguard clean and accessible will help reinforce the habit of wearing it and keep you free of injury.
For more information on the importance of oral health and regular check-ups, visit: https://dfdrussell.org/healthcare-services/oral-health-care/