Taking part in sports is a fun way for children and adults to stay healthy and active. But sports injuries can sometimes affect the teeth, gums, and jaw. Wearing a mouthguard during games and practices can help protect your smile from unexpected impacts.
Custom mouthguards are designed to fit your teeth properly for better comfort and protection. If you are searching for custom mouthguards near you, a custom fit can help provide more support than many store-bought options and help keep your teeth safer during sports.
Why are Sports Dental Injuries Common?
Sports injuries can happen at any age and skill level. Contact sports have a higher chance of dental accidents, but even non-contact sports can lead to mouth injuries from falls or unexpected impacts.
Common sports dental injuries include:
- Chipped teeth
- Broken teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Cuts inside the mouth
- Jaw injuries
- Lip and tongue injuries
Many of these injuries can be painful and may require long-term dental treatment. Preventive care is often easier than repairing damage later.
How Do Mouthguards Help Protect Teeth?
A mouthguard acts like a cushion between the teeth and outside impact. It absorbs force and spreads pressure more evenly across the mouth.
This protection may help reduce:
| Risk | How Mouthguards Help |
| Tooth fractures | Softens impact during contact |
| Tooth loss | Helps protect teeth from direct force |
| Lip and cheek injuries | Creates a barrier between teeth and soft tissues |
| Jaw stress | Helps reduce pressure on the jaw |
| Tooth grinding during sports | Adds a protective layer over teeth |
Athletes who wear mouthguards regularly are often less likely to experience serious dental injuries during games and practices.
What are the Different Types of Sports Mouthguards?
There are several options available when choosing a mouthguard. Understanding the types of sports mouthguards can help athletes and parents make informed decisions.
Stock Mouthguards
These are pre-made and ready to wear. They are usually sold in sporting goods stores.
Pros:
- Easy to find
- Low cost
- Ready to use immediately
Cons:
- Limited fit
- May feel bulky
- Can affect speaking and breathing
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
These become softer in hot water and are shaped by biting into them.
Pros:
- Better fit than stock guards
- Available in many stores
- Adjustable to some extent
Cons:
- Fit may still be uneven
- Can wear down over time
- May become uncomfortable after repeated use
Custom Mouthguards
These mouthguards are created from molds of your teeth to provide a more secure and personalized fit.
Pros:
- Comfortable to wear
- Stays in place during sports
- May make speaking and breathing easier
- Offers added protection
Cons:
- Requires a visit to the dentist
- May cost more than store options
Many athletes choose custom mouthguards because they are designed to fit their mouth structure and support their specific sports needs.
What Makes Custom Mouthguards Different?
When comparing custom vs store-bought mouthguards, the biggest difference is the fit. A custom mouthguard is created based on your unique dental shape, while store-bought versions are made for general use.
Fit and Comfort
Custom mouthguards stay in place more easily. Athletes are more likely to wear them consistently because they feel secure and natural.
Better Protection
A properly fitted guard helps absorb impact more effectively and offers more even coverage across the teeth and gums.
Easier Communication
Players often need to talk with teammates and coaches during games. A custom fit may make speaking easier compared to bulky store options.
Improved Breathing
Mouthguards that do not fit properly may feel uncomfortable or make it harder to breathe during sports activities. Custom-fitted mouthguards are often designed to provide a more comfortable fit and support easier breathing.
Who Should Wear a Mouthguard?
Mouthguards are useful for children, teens, and adults involved in sports or recreational activities. They are especially recommended for:
- Football players
- Basketball players
- Hockey players
- Soccer players
- Wrestlers
- Boxers
- Skateboarders
- Gymnasts
- Martial arts athletes
Even casual players can benefit from added dental protection during physical activity.
How Should You Care for a Mouthguard?
Taking care of a mouthguard helps keep it clean and effective. Simple daily habits can also help it last longer.
Mouthguard Care Tips
- Rinse before and after use
- Clean with mild soap and cool water
- Store in a ventilated case
- Avoid high heat or direct sunlight
- Keep away from pets
- Replace if damaged or worn out
Children and teens may need replacements more often as their teeth continue to grow and change.
When Should a Mouthguard Be Replaced?
A mouthguard should be checked regularly for signs of wear. Cracks, thinning areas, or changes in fit may reduce protection.
You may need a replacement if:
- It feels loose
- It has tears or holes
- Teeth alignment has changed
- It causes discomfort
- It becomes difficult to clean
Regular dental visits at a dental clinic near you can help determine whether a mouthguard still fits properly.
Can Mouthguards Help Prevent Long-Term Dental Problems?
Yes. Preventing injuries early may help avoid future dental complications. A severe sports injury can sometimes lead to:
- Root damage
- Tooth sensitivity
- Nerve problems
- Expensive restorative treatment
- Changes in bite alignment
Protective gear plays an important role in reducing these risks over time.
Protect Your Smile With Support From Landmark Dental
Sports injuries can affect your smile, but a properly fitted mouthguard can help protect your teeth and gums during games and practices. Landmark Dental offers comfortable mouthguard options to help keep your smile safe and support your active lifestyle.
Schedule a visit with Landmark Dental today and help keep your smile protected during every game and practice.
FAQs:
In what ways do custom mouthguards help safeguard teeth during sports?
Custom-made mouthguards absorb shock and minimize the chance of damaged, fractured, or even missing teeth during sports.
Are custom mouthguards more comfortable than store-bought options?
Yes, custom mouthguards are made to fit your teeth properly, which can make them feel more secure and comfortable to wear.
Which sports usually require mouthguards?
Mouthguards are commonly recommended for football, hockey, basketball, soccer, martial arts, and other contact sports.
How often should a mouthguard be replaced?
A mouthguard should be replaced if it becomes loose, damaged, worn out, or no longer fits comfortably.