Dental health mouth guards Published Sept. 10, 2015 By Tech. Sgt. Brian Theus 341st Medical Operations Squadron MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Mouth guards are protective coverings worn over the teeth. They protect teeth from injury, teeth grinding and sporting activities. Custom-fitted mouth guards are individually designed and made in a dental office or a professional laboratory based on impressions taken of individuals' teeth. Generally, mouth guards cover the upper teeth, but in some instances, such as if individuals wear braces or another fixed dental appliance on their lower jaw, a dentist will make a mouth guard for the lower teeth as well. Dentists can suggest the best mouth guard for each person. An effective mouth guard should be comfortable, durable and easy to clean. It should not restrict the ability to breathe or speak. Who needs a mouth guard? Mouth guards should be used by everyone, both children and adults, who play contact sports such as football, boxing, soccer, ice hockey, basketball, lacrosse and field hockey. Those participating in noncontact sports such as gymnastics, skateboarding or mountain biking, would also benefit from wearing a protective mouth guard. Why use a mouth guard when playing sports? Accidents can happen during any physical activity. The advantage of using a mouth guard is that it can help limit the risk of mouth-related injuries to the lips, tongue and other soft tissues of the mouth. Mouth guards can also help avoid chipping or losing a tooth. When can I get one made? The Malmstrom Dental Clinic is holding a custom mouth guard clinic Sept. 30, 2015, from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Call the dental clinic at 731-2511 to schedule an appointment.