The Benefits of Using Mouthguards in Sports

August 14, 2024

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Participating in sports offers numerous physical and mental health benefits but also comes with the risk of dental injuries. Protecting your teeth should be a priority whether you’re into high-impact sports like football and hockey or recreational activities like cycling or skateboarding. Mouthguards are a crucial piece of protective gear that can significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries and offer various benefits to athletes of all ages and skill levels.

What is a Mouthguard?

A mouthguard is a flexible oral appliance typically made of plastic or laminate materials. It covers the teeth and gums to protect against injuries to the teeth, lips, tongue, jaw, and even the head. There are three main types of mouthguards:

Stock mouthguards: These are pre-formed and ready-to-wear, available in small, medium, and large sizes. They are inexpensive but offer limited customization, so you may need to provide a better fit.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards: These are made from a thermoplastic material that softens in boiling water. After softening, the athlete bites into the mouthguard to mold it to their teeth for a better fit.
Custom-fitted mouthguards: These are individually designed and made by a dentist based on an impression of the athlete’s teeth. Custom-fitted mouthguards offer the best fit, comfort, and protection.

Benefits of Using Mouthguards in Sports

1. Protection Against Dental Injuries

Dental injuries, such as knocked-out teeth, broken teeth, or injuries to the lips and tongue, are common in sports. A mouthguard acts as a cushion, absorbing and dispersing the impact forces that can cause these injuries. It helps protect the teeth and soft tissues from trauma, reducing the risk of fractures, chips, and other dental emergencies.

2. Prevention of Jaw Injuries

Impact on the jaw during sports activities can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) injuries or fractures. A properly fitted mouthguard helps stabilize the jaw and reduce the risk of such injuries by cushioning the impact and supporting the jaw joint.

3. Reduced Risk of Concussions

While mouthguards primarily protect the teeth and jaws, they can also help reduce the incidence and severity of concussions. By absorbing and dissipating impact forces, mouthguards can mitigate the transmission of forces to the head, potentially reducing the risk of concussions in certain sports.

4. Comfort and Improved Performance

Custom-fitted mouthguards are designed to fit snugly over the teeth without interfering with breathing or speaking. Athletes can focus on their performance without the distraction of an ill-fitting or uncomfortable mouthguard. Properly fitted mouthguards allow for natural airflow and speech, ensuring optimal comfort during play.

5. Protection for Orthodontic Patients

Athletes undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces or other dental appliances are at increased risk of oral injuries due to the brackets and wires. Mouthguards provide additional protection against soft tissue injuries and damage to orthodontic appliances, helping athletes continue their sports activities safely.

6. Long-term Cost Savings

While custom-fitted mouthguards may have a higher initial cost than stock or boil-and-bite options, they can save money in the long run. Preventing dental injuries through mouthguards can help avoid costly dental treatments such as root canals, dental implants, or emergency dental visits.

7. Promotion of Dental Health

Using a mouthguard encourages athletes to prioritize their dental health and safety. By wearing it consistently during sports activities; athletes develop good habits that can contribute to overall oral health and well-being.

Dig deeper: Managing Dental Emergencies While Traveling: Tips for Handling Unforeseen Situations

Conclusion

Mouthguards are essential protective gear for athletes of all ages and skill levels participating in sports and recreational activities. They offer significant benefits by reducing the risk of dental injuries, protecting against concussions, improving comfort and performance, and promoting long-term dental health. Whether you choose a stock mouthguard, boil-and-bite mouthguard, or custom-fitted mouthguard, wearing this simple piece of equipment can make a big difference in safeguarding your smile and ensuring you can continue enjoying sports safely.

Investing in a quality mouthguard tailored to your dental needs and sports requirements is a proactive step toward protecting your teeth, jaws, and oral health. Prevention is key, so play smart, play safe, and always wear your mouthguard!

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