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The Woodside Dental and Facial Clinic O-PRO Mouth Guards

The Basic Science of Mouth guards

With no mouth guard, a blow to the lower face sends shock waves through the skull. A direct impact can fracture the front teeth, however other blows, particularly to the lower jaw, can cause other damage. A blow to the lower jaw can slam the jaws together, and the sudden impact of the fairly sharp lower teeth into the back of the upper teeth is like a chisel, causing a fracture of the upper teeth and punches them forwards.

In some cases, the transmitted forces can lead to a fracture of the lower jaw, or will travel through the jaw joint (TMJ) into the base of the skull causing a concussion.

Mouth guards act like a shock absorber, both spreading the force over a larger area, and increasing the time for the peak force to occur. Dissipating the energy of the blow over a larger area and longer time reduces its effect, and prevents, or vastly reduces any injury.

Your Questions Answered

Which weight should I choose?

On the whole, MEDIUM for rugby, judo etc. (i.e.. sports that do not use a hard stick or ball) and HEAVY for hockey, lacrosse, cricket etc. (i.e.. sports that do use a hard stick or ball).

How long does a mouth guard last?

This varies according to many factors, e.g.. growth, usage etc. Normally, a growing child would require a replacement once a year, as the teeth and bones develop. Older children and adults may not grow out of their mouth guards, however, the mouth guard will wear down with use and should be inspected annually.

My child has missing or loose teeth

No problem. Our technicians inspect every model and 'block out' space where teeth are yet to erupt, thus allowing extra space in the opro.

What about the shop-sold mouth guards, aren't they as good?

Definitely not! The recommendation of the British Dental Association, the Rugby Football Union and the English Hockey Association is that only custom fitted dental mouth guards should be worn. All shop-sold mouth guards should be avoided as they can be easily dislodged and thus may not offer adequate protection, and can even become hazardous. They may also interfere with breathing.

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