What is the definition or description of: mouth guard?

Mouth Guard: A mouthguard (also known as a mouth protector, mouth piece or gumshield) is a protective device for the mouth that covers the teeth and gums to prevent and reduce injury to the teeth, arches, lips and gums. Mouthguards are most often used to prevent injury in contact sports, as a treatment for bruxism or tmd. http://encyclopedia.thefreedictionary.com/mouth+guard.

An appliance: Protective appliances that fit on the teeth , used to control harmful habits such as grinding, clenching.....Also sports protection.

Athletic mouthguard: A mouthguard for sports is made of a thermoplastic material which is soft (bendable) and custom fit to the upper teeth (usually). The thickness of the material varies depending on the sport. The mouthguard protects the mouth in two major ways: 1) it helps prevent the accidental biting of the cheek, tongue and lip. 2) absorbs impact that would otherwise be absorbed by the teeth.

Protection: They will protect the teeth from traumatic injuries, but can also help prevent concussions if they are fabricated in a way that opens the TMJ space so there is room for the guard to absorb the shock.

Protector: A mouth guard is either a stock or custom constructed oral device designed to reduce dental problems. They may be constructed to protect the teeth and jaws during contact sports, reduce damage caused by clenching/grinding teeth or to reduce snoring.

Mouth guard: A Mouth Guard, whether OTC or (better) custom fitted is a flexible appliance designed to protect teeth, gums, jaw joints and brain from traumatic injury or concussion while engaged in contact sports. An Occlusal Orthotic (night guard) is a custom made appliance designed to mask jaw joint dysfunction symptoms and protect teeth from grinding. See your Dentist for help