All parents have been traumatized by injuries to a child that has resulted from uncontrollable falls and trips. This is why, as they grow older parents employ a simple yet effective safety device known as a mouth guard that prevents teeth getting broken during various activities such as sports which kids are more and more getting involved with. It has however been found that these dental aids are becoming more of a health risk than a saver for poorly cleaned and maintained mouth guards have been found to contain the same bacteria and other contaminants that were removed from a leg abscess that resulted in an abrasion. This has alarmed health experts who now advising parents to clean and regularly check these teeth savers to keep them clean and sanitize them before and after use. Badly worn ones should be replaced immediately for they can cut into the mouth�s soft tissues and gums allowing bacteria to get into the blood stream causing various illnesses. The American Dental Association has a comprehensive guide for parents regarding the use and cleaning of <strong><a href=� http://www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/OC/Information/ADA/www.ada.org/public/topics/mouthguards.asp>mouth guards</a></strong>.