August is here. For some of us, that means “back to school” sales and number two pencils. For others, August is associated with one thing…football season; a time-honored tradition that combines strategy and shear power in such a way that its followers become compelled to paint their faces and enter into less than flattering situations, all for the loyalty of their team. Football is America’s (other) pastime, which is so easily illustrated by the price of Superbowl tickets. Even at the opposite end of the spectrum, high school football is where the purity of the game is found; playing for the sake of playing (not a seven figure salary or multiple energy drink endorsements). With this in mind, it is important to not overlook the most important part of the game, protection. One wrong turn, one misstep, or one microsecond of lost concentration can lead to an injury. The average football player wears at least five individual pieces of equipment. At Advanced DDS, we are focused on the item that protects the most important aspect of the human body, your mouth (what were you thinking about?). The right mouth guard can make the difference between some minor swelling and a major maxillofacial injury. I know what’s going through your mind, “What’s the difference, aren’t they all the same?” They can be, as long as you’re comfortable substituting a Rolex with something you found in a cracker-jack box.

When considering a mouth guard, there are three major categories one can choose from:

Stock Mouth Protectors are the most basic of mouth guards. These guards are manufactured with a general mold, which is supposed to mimic the “average” mouth. Most of these pieces are bulky and uncomfortable (a territory usually traveled when dealing with the one-size-fits-all market). If you don’t mind using a guard that closely resembles the feeling of an orange peel in your mouth, then these are easily found at your local sporting goods store. The next level shows a significant difference. However, Boil-and-Bite mouth guards do require some pre-use treatments. These protectors prove to be a happy medium between the two other distinct categories. Boil-and bites are made from a heat resistant plastic which, when boiled, becomes pliable so it is easy to form once in the user’s mouth. These can also be found at a local sporting goods store. The Cadillac of the three is the Custom Fitted mouth guard. These are formed by using dental impressions to perfectly fit each contour of your unique mouth. This is the best fit, and the best option for people with pernament orthodontic appliances (braces and retainers). Dr. Raskin offers these services to ensure that your training camp smile makes it all the way to the championship game.

Football isn’t the only sport that athletes use mouth guards for. Realistically, mouth protection should be used with most sports (Lacrosse, Hockey, Skateboarding, Basketball, etc…). An unresolved mouth injury can lead to health issues, please don’t hesitate to seek medical/dental attention. No problem is too small. Always remember, practice safe sporting.

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