If youre an athletewhether you play hockey, football, basketball, or even less contact-heavy sportsprotecting your teeth should be a top priority. Dental injuries can happen in a split second, and the cost of repairs can be far greater than the cost of prevention. At McLevin Dental, we often see athletes who wish theyd invested in a custom mouthguard before that unexpected elbow, collision, or fall. Lets talk about why custom mouthguards are essential for athletes, how they work, and why you should consider making them part of your regular sports routine.
The Hidden Risks Athletes Face
Every year, thousands of athletes experience dental injuries. A flying puck, a stray ball, or a simple tumble can result in chipped teeth, broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, or injuries to the lips, tongue, and jaw. Even in non-contact sports, accidental impacts are surprisingly common. If youre wearing braces, the risks multiplyone hit could mean serious damage to your teeth and orthodontic work.
What Is a Custom Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a soft, flexible device worn over your teeth to absorb shock and reduce the risk of dental injury during sports. Custom mouthguards are professionally made to fit your unique mouth, offering a level of protection and comfort that over-the-counter mouthguards simply cant match.
While store-bought mouthguards might seem like a quick and affordable solution, theyre often bulky, uncomfortable, and may not stay in place when you need them most. In contrast, a custom mouthguard from McLevin Dental is made from high-quality materials and tailored to fit perfectly, allowing you to breathe, speak, and focus on your performance without distraction.
Why Choose a Custom Mouthguard?
Lets break down the biggest reasons why custom mouthguards are the best choice for athletes:
1. Superior Fit and Comfort
A custom mouthguard is designed using a mold of your teeth. This ensures a snug, secure fit that wont slip or feel bulky. Youll barely notice its there, even during intense action, which means youre more likely to wear it consistently.
2. Maximum Protection
Because a custom mouthguard is tailored to your mouth, it offers optimal protection against tooth fractures, tooth loss, jaw injuries, and cuts to the lips and cheeks. For athletes with braces or dental work, custom mouthguards are especially importantthey provide extra coverage to prevent damage to brackets, wires, or other appliances.
3. Durability and Longevity
Custom mouthguards are made from high-quality, medical-grade materials that last longer than most store-bought options. With proper care, your mouthguard can serve you well for seasons to come.
4. Better Breathing and Communication
Unlike bulky, generic guards, a custom mouthguard allows you to speak clearly and breathe easily. This is a huge benefit for team athletes who need to communicate with coaches and teammates on the field.
5. Reduced Risk of Concussion
While no mouthguard can prevent all concussions, studies show that properly fitted mouthguards may help reduce the risk by absorbing some of the force from blows to the jaw.
Who Should Wear a Custom Mouthguard?
Any athlete participating in contact or high-impact sports should consider a custom mouthguard. This includes:
Hockey and football players
Basketball players
Martial artists and boxers
Lacrosse and rugby athletes
Soccer players
Gymnasts and skateboarders
Cyclists and mountain bikers
Even athletes in sports like volleyball, baseball, or gymnastics can benefit, as falls or collisions often lead to accidental impacts.
Getting Your Custom Mouthguard at McLevin Dental
The process is quick, easy, and pain-free:
Consultation: Schedule a visit to McLevin Dental, where well assess your needs and take a detailed impression of your teeth.
Fabrication: Well send your impression to a dental lab that will craft your mouthguard to exact specifications.
Fitting: When your mouthguard is ready, well check the fit and make sure it feels perfect before you take it home.
Caring for Your Custom Mouthguard
To keep your mouthguard in top condition:
Rinse with cool water before and after use.
Clean regularly with mild soap and a toothbrush.
Store in a ventilated case when not in use.
Bring it to your dental appointments so we can check for wear and tear.
Your Smile Is Worth Protecting
A single dental injury can cause pain, lead to expensive treatments, and even end a season early. Custom mouthguards are a small investment that pays off bigprotecting your teeth, jaw, and overall oral health so you can keep playing the sports you love.
At McLevin Dental, were dedicated to helping athletes of all ages safeguard their smiles. Ready to get started? Book your custom mouthguard appointment with us today and enjoy peace of mind on and off the field!