Playing sports is a great way to stay active, build teamwork skills, and have fun. Whether it’s football, basketball, soccer, or even skateboarding, sports can be thrilling and full of action. However, they also come with some risks, especially to your teeth. Many athletes, both young and old, end up with dental injuries that could have been prevented with one simple piece of equipment: a mouthguard.
How Sports Can Hurt Your Teeth
During physical activities, especially contact sports, there’s always a chance of getting hit in the face. A fall, an elbow from another player, or even a ball coming at high speed can cause serious damage. Common sports-related dental injuries include:
- Chipped or broken teeth: Impact can cause part of a tooth to break off.
- Knocked-out teeth: A strong hit can completely dislodge a tooth.
- Cut lips or gums: Your teeth can press against soft tissues during an impact, causing cuts.
- Jaw injuries: Force to your lower face can lead to jaw fractures or dislocations.
These injuries can be painful, expensive to fix, and sometimes permanent. That’s why protecting your teeth is so important.
What Is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a flexible, custom-fit piece of plastic that fits over your teeth. It’s designed to absorb and spread out the force from an impact, reducing the risk of injury. There are a few types of mouthguards available:
- Stock mouthguards: These are pre-made and ready to wear but may not fit well.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards: These can be softened in hot water and then shaped to fit your teeth.
- Custom mouthguards: Made by a dentist, these offer the best fit and protection.
Custom mouthguards, while more expensive, are highly recommended for serious athletes or those who play sports regularly. They’re more comfortable and stay in place better than other types.
Benefits of Wearing a Mouthguard
A mouthguard provides more than just protection for your teeth. It can also:
- Prevent soft tissue injuries, like cuts to your lips, tongue, and cheeks.
- Reduce the risk of jaw fractures by cushioning the force of an impact.
- Minimize the risk of concussions by absorbing some of the shock from a hit to the jaw.
For younger athletes, wearing a mouthguard is especially important because their teeth and jaws are still developing.
Who Should Wear a Mouthguard?
Anyone who plays contact sports, like football, hockey, or martial arts, should wear a mouthguard. But even if you play a non-contact sport like gymnastics or cycling, a mouthguard can still be useful. Accidents can happen in any activity, and it’s always better to be prepared.
Protect Your Smile
Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime, so protecting them should always be a priority. Wearing a mouthguard is an easy and effective way to prevent painful and costly dental injuries. Next time you head out onto the field or court, make sure you’re wearing one. Your smile will thank you!