Athletes invest countless hours into training, building endurance, and mastering their game. But in the fast-paced world of sports, a single blow to the face can result in painful, costly dental trauma. Whether youre a student athlete, weekend warrior, or professional competitor, protecting your teeth should be a priority.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we strongly advocate for the use of custom sports mouthguards to prevent oral injuries during athletic activities. In this blog, well explain why mouthguards are a must-have in your gear bag and how they safeguard your smile from avoidable damage.
What Is a Sports Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a flexible oral appliance worn over the upper teeth during sports to cushion blows to the face. It helps prevent a range of injuries, including:
Chipped or broken teeth
Knocked-out teeth
Cuts to lips, cheeks, and tongue
Jaw fractures and dislocations
Damage to braces, bridges, and crowns
Mouthguards are especially essential in contact sports like hockey, football, boxing, martial arts, and lacrosse, but theyre also useful in non-contact sports like basketball, skating, and mountain biking where collisions and falls are common.
Why Mouthguards Matter
1. Prevent Costly Dental Emergencies
Dental injuries can lead to long-term complications, including root canals, implants, crowns, or even tooth replacement. Treating a single knocked-out tooth can cost thousands of dollars over a lifetime. A mouthguard is a small investment that provides long-term savings and peace of mind.
2. Reduce Risk of Concussions
Theres growing evidence that mouthguards may help reduce the severity of concussions by absorbing some of the shock from impacts to the jaw. While theyre not a replacement for helmets, mouthguards offer an added layer of protection for the head and neck.
3. Protect Orthodontic Appliances
Athletes with braces or dental restorations face a higher risk of injury. A custom mouthguard can protect the braces and prevent painful cuts or lacerations caused by metal brackets during impact.
4. Enhance Performance Without Discomfort
Custom mouthguards from McLevin Dental Clinic are designed for a perfect fit. Unlike bulky store-bought guards, they dont interfere with breathing or speaking, allowing athletes to focus fully on their performance.
Types of Mouthguards: Which One Is Right?
1. Stock Mouthguards
These are pre-formed, ready-to-wear guards sold in sporting goods stores. They are inexpensive but often uncomfortable and provide minimal protection.
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
These can be softened in hot water and shaped to your mouth. While they offer a better fit than stock versions, they can still be bulky and may not last long.
3. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards (Best Option)
Made by a dental professional, these are crafted to fit your unique dental structure. Custom mouthguards offer the highest level of comfort, stability, and protectionespecially important for athletes who wear braces or have previous dental work.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we take precise dental impressions and create a custom mouthguard tailored to your sport and risk level.
How to Care for Your Mouthguard
To keep your mouthguard clean, effective, and long-lasting:
Rinse it with cold water after each use
Clean it regularly with mild soap and a toothbrush
Store it in a ventilated case away from heat or direct sunlight
Check for wear and replace it annually or if it becomes damaged
Bring it to your dental appointments for evaluation
Sports That Require or Recommend Mouthguards
If you participate in any of the following sports, a mouthguard should be part of your standard equipment:
Hockey
Football
Basketball
Rugby
Lacrosse
Boxing
Martial arts
Wrestling
BMX, skateboarding, mountain biking
Soccer and baseball (especially for goalkeepers or catchers)
Even in sports where mouthguards arent mandatory, its wise to wear one if theres any chance of impact to the mouth or jaw.
A Word on Youth Athletes
Young athletes are especially vulnerable to dental injuries due to active play, developing teeth, and higher risk-taking behavior. Ensuring that children wear custom mouthguards is essential in preventing damage that could impact their long-term dental health.
Custom mouthguards for kids are comfortable, secure, and can be made in fun colors to encourage regular use.
Final Thoughts
Your teeth are worth protectingand once damaged, theyre often costly and difficult to restore. A well-fitted mouthguard is one of the most effective ways to prevent oral trauma and protect your long-term dental health.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we specialize in custom sports mouthguards designed for all ages and athletic levels. Whether you’re a student athlete, a professional competitor, or a recreational player, were here to help you stay safe and smile confidently through every game.
Book an appointment today and take the first step toward safeguarding your teeth on and off the field.