Mouth guards are protective devices worn over the teeth to prevent dental injury. They are often worn during sporting activity and to protect teeth against sun-conscious grinding, known as bruxism.

There are three main types of mouth guards called stock mouth protectors, boil and bite mouth protectors and custom-fitted mouth protectors. Both stock and boil and bite mouth protectors are the generic mouth guards that can be bought from most sporting goods suppliers. Dentists do not recommend either of these as they often offer very little protection because they are not designed for the individual patient’s teeth. Custom-made protectors are individually designed and fitted for your teeth by a dentists and offer a high level of protection. The dentist will manufacture the guard from a mould taken from your teeth to ensure a close and protective fit. Because this type of guard involves work by the dentist it may be more expensive but it does provide the most comfort and protection. It is also worth noting that a knocked out, chipped or damaged tooth will be extremely expensive to fix so the best prevention is better than the cure.

Mouth guards are usually only fitted over the top teeth but a City of Leeds dentist may also decide to make a guard for the lower arc. An effective mouth guard should be tight fitting, durable, easy to clean and very resistant to tearing and other damage. Dentists recommend that anyone taking part in any physical or sporting activity should wear a guard, even if the activity is non-contact such as skateboarding or gymnastics. This is because over half of the dental injuries in the UK are caused by some form of sporting activity.

Mouth guards should be cleaned with cold water, a toothbrush and toothpaste before and after each use and stored in a container when not in use. Only very occasionally should the mouth guard be washed with soapy water. It is important to replace mouth guards that have become worn, as the protection may be limited. It is also important to remember to upgrade children’s mouth guards as their teeth develop and grow. Have a mouth guard fitted at a City of Leeds dentist and prevent painful and costly dental treatment.