In today’s society where millions of people are active in sports, it should be no surprise that there are over seven million injuries related to sports and recreation every year in the age group of 5 to 24 alone. One way to cut down on injuries to the mouth and face is for participants to wear mouth guards. The group Moms for Mouth Guards is getting involved to promote safety.
The American Associate of Orthodontists (AAO) advises that team or recreational sports participants wear a mouth guard to protect their mouths and faces. AAO research shows that more than 67 percent of parents do not make their children wear mouth guards. Moms for Mouth Guards is on a mission to educate parents, players, and coaches about the effects of facial and jaw injuries. Wearing a mouth guard is a proven way to decrease the seriousness of injuries and impacts that they have on players.
Moms for Mouth Guards has joined the AAO in its efforts to encourage other mothers in supporting athlete safety by wearing mouth guards. The group’s website provides details about sports injuries, tips on selecting an orthodontist, and the Moms for Mouth Guards pledge. This pledge asks individuals to commit to ensuring their children wear appropriate athletic equipment, including mouth guards. For every signature on the pledge, Moms for Mouth Guards donates mouth guards to the National Alliance for Youth Sports. This non-profit group promotes safe, fun, and healthy sports for all children.
The AAO suggests choosing for a custom mouth guard over store-bought options for the best protection. A custom mouth guard is personalized to your child’s teeth after a mold is taken by an orthodontist. The models are sent to a dental lab so that a personalized mouth guard can be created. The orthodontist will then ensure that the appliance fits your child perfectly, and provide directions for proper usage and cleaning.