Protecting Smiles on Newton's Fields and Rinks
Our practice sponsors Newton Little League, so we think about young athletes a lot. Baseball does not seem like a dangerous sport for teeth until a grounder takes a bad bounce. Hockey, lacrosse, basketball and soccer carry their own risks from sticks, elbows and falls.
A good mouth guard is the simplest piece of equipment for protecting teeth. It cushions a blow and spreads the force across the whole arch, which helps prevent chipped or knocked-out teeth and cuts inside the mouth.
Why a Custom Fit Makes a Difference
Kids are famous for chewing on their mouth guards, leaving them on the bench, or taking them out because they cannot talk to teammates. A lot of that comes down to fit. Generic guards are bulky and loose, so players stop wearing them.
A custom guard is made from a mold of your own teeth. It is thinner where it can be and snug where it needs to be. For many players it is comfortable enough to forget about, which is exactly what you want during a game.
Getting Fitted at Our Newton Office
- Tell us about the sportDr. Monika Kaceli asks what you play and at what level. A goalie and a second baseman face different risks.
- Check the teethShe looks for anything that affects the fit, such as loose baby teeth, new adult teeth or orthodontic work.
- Take a moldWe capture the shape of your teeth so the guard can be made to match.
- Try it onWhen your guard is ready, we check the fit and make sure you can breathe and talk comfortably.
Growing kids may need a new guard as baby teeth fall out and adult teeth arrive. We can check the fit at each checkup in Newton.
If a Tooth Gets Hurt During a Game
Even with a guard, accidents happen. Our Newton office offers same-day emergency dental visits, so call us right away.
If a permanent tooth is knocked out, pick it up by the crown (the part you chew with), not the root. If you can, gently put it back in its socket and hold it there. If that is not possible, keep it in milk or saline and come in as quickly as you can. Time matters for saving the tooth.
Chipped or cracked teeth can often be repaired with bonding or a crown, depending on how much of the tooth is affected.
Keeping Your Guard Clean
- Rinse it after every practice and game
- Brush it gently and let it dry before storing
- Use a case with air holes
- Do not leave it in a hot car or in the sun, where it can lose its shape
- Replace it if it is cracked, torn or no longer fits snugly
Why Choose Kaceli Dental Studio in Newton?
We see children and adults, so the whole family's guards can be made in one place. We also sponsor Newton Little League.
And because the Newton office offers same-day emergency visits, you have a plan if something goes wrong on the field. Families come to us from Newton Centre, Wellesley, Needham, Brookline and Dedham.
