Four to five million concussions are reported annually, according to Dr. Kami Hoss of The Super Dentists. And that number just includes the concussions that are reported! While many people think that concussions occur from a blow to the top of the head, it is important to note that contact to any portion of the mouth or jaw can cause concussion symptoms.
In a new segment from ABC Channel 10 San Diego, Dr. Hoss points out that the jaw makes up approximately two-thirds of a person’s face. An individual’s upper jaw extends underneath the eyes and supports the nose. The mandible consists of the entire bottom portion of the jaw. Failure to protect either of these jaw components during contact sports or activities may lead to concussions, tooth loss or mouth injuries.
With a custom mouthguard, an individual can protect himself or herself against concussions and other tooth or mouth problems. A mouthguard helps cushion the teeth to prevent tooth loss or mouth injuries due to physical contact. It also provides a barrier between the teeth and cheeks and lips and tongue to minimize soft tissue damage during contact sports and activities.
Most mouthguards cover only the upper teeth. However, individuals with a protruding jaw or those wearing braces or other dental appliances on their lower jaw should also consider a mouthguard to protect their lower teeth.
Studies show a custom mouthguard is at least twice as effective in reducing concussions in comparison to a standard mouthguard, Dr. Hoss says. Since a custom mouthguard is designed to provide a perfect fit, an individual is more likely to wear it during contact sports and activities, too.
At The Super Dentists, our expert dentists understand a healthy lifestyle involves staying physically active. We also realize it sometimes is difficult to protect the jaw, teeth and mouth during contact sports and activities. That’s why we work with each patient to craft a custom mouthguard that is safe, comfortable and effective. With this approach, we can create a custom mouthguard that:
- Enables a patient to speak clearer
- Doesn’t hinder a patient’s ability to breathe
- Stays in place, even during football games, gymnastics meets and other contact sports and activities
- Is simple to clean
- Won’t fall apart easily
Additionally, some of our patients are eligible to receive mouthguards free for life or at a discount. By doing so, we help our patients limit the risk of concussions and tooth and mouth injuries during contact sports and activities.
To find out more about The Super Dentists’ custom mouthguards, please contact us today at 1 (855) GO SUPER.
