Who Needs a Mouth Guard?

• Mouth guards should be used by anyone -- children and adults -- who play contact sports such as football, boxing, soccer, ice hockey, basketball, lacrosse, and field hockey. However, even those participating in noncontact sports (for example, gymnastics) and any recreational activity (for example, skateboarding, mountain biking) that might pose a risk of injury to the mouth would benefit from wearing a protective mouth guard.
• Swimming guards are also used by swimmers who are in contact with chlorine water for longer time to avoid discoloration of teeth.
• Adults and children who grind their teeth at night should have a nocturnal bite plate or bite splint made to prevent tooth damage.

How Do I Care for My Mouth Guard?

To care for your mouth guard:

• Rinse your mouth guard with cold water or with a mouth rinse before and after each use or clean it with a mild soap and a toothbrush.
• Clean the mouth guard in cool, soapy water and rinse it thoroughly.
• Place the mouth guard in a firm, perforated container to store or transport it. This permits air circulation and helps to prevent damage. If the mouth guard is acrylic, keep it in fresh clean water.
• Protect the mouth guard from high temperatures -- such as hot water, hot surfaces, or direct sunlight -- to minimize distorting its shape.
• Occasionally check the mouth guard for general wear. If you find holes or tears in it or if it becomes loose or causes discomfort, replace it.
• Bring the mouth guard to each regularly scheduled dental visit to have your dentist exam it.