Do you have a mouthguard? Published Oct. 8, 2015 By 412th Medical Group EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- What is a mouthguard? A mouthguard is a flexible appliance made out of plastic that is worn in athletic and recreational activities to protect teeth from trauma. Why should I wear a mouthguard? To protect your mouth from injuries. Lately, the 412th Medical Group has seen an increase in people losing teeth and fracturing teeth here at Edwards. Do mouthguards prevent Injuries? A mouthguard can also prevent serious injuries such as concussions, cerebral hemorrhages, jaw fractures and neck injuries from happening. They help by preventing the lower jaw from traumatizing the upper jaw. Mouthguards also prevent laceration and bruising of the lips and cheeks. In what sports should I wear a mouthguard? Anytime there is a strong chance for contact with other participants or hard surfaces, it is advisable to wear a mouthguard. If you are playing basketball, softball, wrestling, soccer, in-line skating, and martial arts as well as recreational sports such as skateboarding and bicycling; you should wear mouthguards while engaging in these activities. Why don't kids wear mouthguards? Parents are sometimes uninformed about the level of contact and potential for serious dental injuries involved with sports in which the child participates. Cost may be another consideration, although mouthguards come in a variety of price ranges. What are the different types of mouthguards? Stock mouthguard: The lowest cost option and offers the least protection because the fit adjustment is limited. It may interfere with speech and breathing because this mouthguard requires that the jaw be closed to hold it in place. A stock mouthguard is not considered acceptable as a facial protective device. Prices range from $5-$15 at sporting goods stores Mouth-formed mouthguard: These mouthguards come as a shell-liner and "boil-and bite" product. The shell is lined with acrylic or rubber. When placed in an athlete's mouth, the protector's lining material molds to the teeth and is allowed to set. The lining of the "boil-and-bite" mouthguard is immersed in boiling water for 10-45 seconds, transferred to cold water and then adapted to the teeth. The "boil-and-bite" mouthguard is used by more than 90 percent of athletes who use mouthguards. While they are less expensive than custom-made guards, the fit is not as good and they do not last as long. Prices range from $30-$40 at sporting goods stores. Custom-made mouthguard: The best choice is a mouthguard custom-made by your dentist. It offers the best protection, fit and comfort level because it is made from a cast to fit your teeth. Prices range from $300-$500 but it is covered for active duty military members when medically necessary. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN OBTAINING A MOUTHGUARD, PLEASE CONTACT THE EDWARDS DENTAL CLINIC AT 661-277-2872. THIS SERVICE IS AVAILABLE ONLY TO ACTIVE DUTY PERSONNEL. Information provided to you by Crest and Edwards AFB Dental Clinic.