Ocoee, FL – Dental injuries in Ocoee and around the Orlando area are common in contact sports and recreational activities. According to the ADA, numerous surveys of sports-related dental injuries have documented that participants of all ages, genders and skill levels are at risk of sustaining dental injuries in sporting activities at both recreational and competitive levels. While sport such as boxing have inherent injury risks, dental injuries in Orlando and throughout the U.S. are also prevalent in non-contact activities and exercises, such as gymnastics and skating.
The use of a properly fitted mouth guard is the best available protective device for reducing the incidence and severity of sports-related dental injuries.
Studies of mouth guard users and nonusers have consistently shown that mouth guards offer significant protection against sports-related injuries to the teeth and soft tissues. Mouth guards provide a resilient, protective surface to distribute and dissipate forces on impact, thereby minimizing the severity of traumatic injury to the hard or soft tissues.
According to a 2007 study evaluating the effectiveness of mouth guards in reducing injuries, the overall injury risk was found to be almost 2 times greater when a mouth guard was not worn, relative to when mouth guards were used during athletic activity.
If your child participates in team sports or other activities with risks of injury to the teeth, jaw and oral soft tissues (mouth, lip, tongue, or inner lining of the cheeks) we recommend the use a properly fitted mouth guard in any sporting or recreational activity that may pose a risk of injury. The key educational message is that the best mouth guard is one that is utilized during sport activities. While custom mouth guards are considered by many to be the most protective option, other mouth guards can be effective if they fit well, are worn properly and stay in place.
If you think you or your child might benefit from a mouth guard, it’s probably a good idea to bring the topic up at your next appointment. If it’s that time, contact Dr. Colon and Complete Family Dentistry & Implant Center in Ocoee at (407) 523-5400 to schedule your next appointment with our highly experienced dental staff.
