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Winnipeg, Manitoba
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Mouth Guards Soften the Blow

For a parent, seeing your child lose a tooth in an accident can be extremely upsetting. Such injuries are often quite painful and can be very scary for your child as well. However, protection is the key. "A properly fitted mouth guard or mouth protector can help protect your child's teeth", says Dr. Dean Meier, a board certified Winnipeg Pediatric Dentist at Children's Dental Centre. "It is an important piece of athletic gear," Dr. Meier explains. "Mouth guards help cushion blows that might otherwise cause fractured teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face or jaw. Mouth guards may also reduce the severity and incidence of concussions by distributing the force of impact."

There are currently three types of mouth guards on the market that vary in comfort and cost: ready-made, mouth-formed or "boil and bite", and custom-made mouth guards which are professionally designed by your dentist from a cast model of your child's teeth. The most effective mouth guard should be resilient, tear-resistant and comfortable. It should fit properly, be durable, and not restrict your child's speech or breathing. Generally, a mouth guard covers only the upper teeth, but in some cases your pediatric dentist will make a mouth guard for the lower teeth as well. Dr. Meier, can suggest the right mouth guard for your child.

Dr. Meier encourages parents to have their children wearing mouth guards early, so it "becomes routine when they get older."

Dr. Meier's pediatric practice, Children's Dental Centre, specializes in treating kids and teens. Their office is well equipped to put children at ease with video games, painted murals and a toy train traveling around the office. Children's Dental Centre is conveniently located at 240-1630 Ness Avenue in Madison Square, one block west of Polo Park. Appointments may be made at 668-5437. New patients are welcome and referrals are not necessary.