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) 871-2885 if you would like to "play it safe!" and wear a comfortable mouthguard and protect your teeth.

	Primary teeth - something to smile about
	Care of Primary teeth
	Why restore primary teeth?
	Dental disease and young gums
	What about injuries to the baby teeth?
	Can medicine harm baby teeth or second teeth?
	Dental decay - sealants