When you think of sports gear, helmets, pads, and shoes likely come to mind. But one essential piece of equipment that is often overlookedyet equally importantis the mouthguard. For athletes of all ages, a mouthguard plays a critical role in protecting the teeth, jaw, and overall oral health during physical activity. At McLevin Dental Clinic, we emphasize the value of mouthguards as a preventive measure that can save you from painful injuries and costly dental treatments.
Heres why every athlete should invest in a quality sports mouthguard.
What Is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a soft, flexible dental appliance that covers and cushions the upper teeth and gums. It acts as a protective barrier, absorbing shock and minimizing the risk of injuries caused by impact to the face or mouth. Mouthguards are especially important in contact and high-speed sports where collisions or falls are common.
There are different types of mouthguards available, including store-bought options and custom-fitted mouthguards, which are made specifically for your mouth by a dentist. At McLevin Dental Clinic, we offer custom mouthguards designed to provide maximum comfort and protection.
Why Athletes Need a Mouthguard
1. Prevents Broken or Knocked-Out Teeth
Sports-related dental injuries often include chipped, fractured, or completely knocked-out teeth. A properly fitted mouthguard helps absorb and distribute the force of impact, significantly reducing the chance of serious tooth damage.
2. Protects the Soft Tissues
Injuries from falls or collisions can cause athletes to bite their lips, cheeks, or tongue. A mouthguard provides a cushion that helps prevent these painful soft tissue injuries.
3. Reduces the Risk of Jaw Injuries
Impact to the lower face can cause the jaw to slam shut or shift out of place. A mouthguard can reduce the severity of such trauma by stabilizing the jaw and reducing the force of impact.
4. Helps Prevent Concussions
While a mouthguard isnt a substitute for a helmet, it can play a role in reducing the risk of concussions by absorbing shock and limiting jaw movement upon impact.
5. Essential for Athletes with Braces
If you wear braces or other orthodontic appliances, a custom mouthguard protects not only your teeth but also your lips and gums from cuts caused by metal brackets or wires during sports activities.
Sports That Require Mouth Protection
A mouthguard is strongly recommendedand often requiredfor sports such as:
Hockey
Football
Rugby
Martial arts
Basketball
Boxing
Lacrosse
Wrestling
Skateboarding
Mountain biking
Even in non-contact sports like baseball or gymnastics, accidental collisions or falls can cause significant dental injuries.
Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards
Many athletes buy boil and bite or stock mouthguards from sporting goods stores, but these one-size-fits-all options rarely offer the level of protection or comfort needed.
Advantages of Custom-Fitted Mouthguards:
Precisely molded to your unique bite
Comfortable to wear, allowing better breathing and speaking
Durable and long-lasting
Offers superior protection, especially for athletes with braces or crowns
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we use dental impressions to create a mouthguard that fits securely and comfortably, giving you confidence during every game or training session.
Caring for Your Mouthguard
To ensure your mouthguard stays effective and hygienic, follow these care tips:
Rinse with cold water or mouthwash after each use
Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap
Store it in a ventilated container when not in use
Avoid exposing it to high heat, which can warp its shape
Replace it annually or when it shows signs of wear or damage
Proper maintenance helps extend the life of your mouthguard and keeps bacteria at bay.
The Cost of Skipping a Mouthguard
Skipping a mouthguard may save time or money in the short term, but the consequences can be serious and costly. Treating a single knocked-out tooth can require root canals, crowns, implants, or even denturesoften costing thousands of dollars. Investing in a custom mouthguard is a simple and affordable way to protect your teeth, especially compared to the cost of emergency dental care.
McLevin Dental Clinic: Your Partner in Sports Dentistry
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we specialize in providing custom sports mouthguards for athletes of all ages and experience levels. Whether youre a weekend warrior, a student athlete, or training at a professional level, we are committed to helping you protect your teeth and maintain peak oral health.
Our custom-fitted mouthguards are designed for comfort, durability, and maximum protectiontailored to your sport, your dental structure, and your unique needs.
Final Thoughts
Dental injuries can happen in a split second, but their impact can last a lifetime. Dont wait until an accident happens. A custom mouthguard from McLevin Dental Clinic is your best defense against chipped teeth, broken jaws, and painful emergencies.
If you’re an athleteor have a child who plays sportsschedule an appointment today to get fitted for a high-quality mouthguard. Your future smile will thank you.