Dental injuries are among the most common sports injuries. Studies have shown that athletes not wearing mouth guards are 60 times more likely to suffer mouth injuries. Football is the exception: the required use of mouth guards in high school and college prevents over 200,000 injuries each year, according to the American Dental Association.

Mouth guards reduce the risk of mouth, face and jaw injuries, as well as broken teeth. The basic types of mouth guards include:

• Stock: Sold in stores, these pre-formed guards may not fit well, reducing the effectiveness.
• Boil and bite: Also sold in stores, these fit a little better by boiling and then inserting in the mouth to form.
• Custom-fitted: Mouth guards that are custom-made are the most expensive but offer the best protection.

Happy Pediatric can help you determine the best option for your budget and needs to protect your face and preserve your natural teeth.