Dental clinic offering mouthguards Published Oct. 17, 2013 By Tech. Sgt. Justin Jones 341st Medical Operations Squadron MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- The 341st Medical Operations Squadron Dental Flight will be hosting a custom sports mouthguard clinic tomorrow, Oct. 18, from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. for all active-duty personnel and sponsored dependents. According to the American Dental Association, wearing a mouthguard helps buffer an impact that might otherwise result in injuries to the teeth, lips, tongue and jaw. It's also believed that they may reduce the severity and occurrence of concussions. Mouthguards generally cover the upper teeth; however, if someone has a protruding jaw, their dentist may recommend that their lower teeth also be covered. Additionally, for people who wear braces, have a receding chin or have a cleft palate, it would be beneficial to get a custom mouthguard made, as well. The most effective mouthguard should have several features. They should be resilient, tear-resistant and comfortable. They're most effective against trauma when they are properly fitted, are durable, easy to clean, and do not restrict speech or breathing. Anyone interested in a custom-made mouthguard or who engage in any high-contact sports, should contact the 341st Medical Operations Squadron dental flight at 731-2511 for an appointment. The dental staff will take impressions of the patient's teeth, fabricate a custom mouthguard in a variety of colors and have it ready for pick-up the very next duty day.