Dr. Barrera Answers Questions About Mouthguards

	"Dr. Barrera, why should I wear a mouthguard?"
	While mouth guards are not mandatory equipment in all sports, their worth is indisputable. Mouthguards cushion blows to the face and neck. A mouthguard should be part of every athlete's gear, no matter the sport.

Do: At Dr B's office we feel that your child should wear a mouthguard at all times when playing sports. Wear a mouthguard custom-fitted by a dentist, especially if your child wears braces.

Don't: Wear removable appliances like retainers when playing sports.

There are two types of mouthguards:

Custom-made: Designed by a dentist and made on a cast of your child's teeth. These cause very little interference with speaking or breathing. They provide the best protection and fit over braces. They also cost more.

Ready-made: Purchased at most sporting goods stores. They are the least expensive, the least effective, and least comfortable.

Please call our office at (408) 920-7070 if you would like to "play it safe!" and wear a comfortable mouthguard and protect your teeth.

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