With the fall sports season apon us, we see more patients asking us to make custom fitted mouth guards. What many patients don't realize is the true function of the mouth guard. Yes, most of us know that a well fitted mouth guard will protect the teeth from truama, but did you know that the primary purpose is to prevent a concussion? When properly constructed, the mouth guard will prevent a blow to the mouth from causing the manble from getting pushed into the soft bone covering the brain in the joint area. Also, the minimum thickness is around 5mm so most guards need to be replaced annually. If you see holes in the back of the guard, it's time for a new one. A worn guard is totally ineffective for concussion prevention.
If you would like us to make you a custom guard, please call. We can make them in all team colors!
Dr. Salzberg