Mouthguards and Athletes

Post by: Gerarda on 01 Oct 2021

Mouthguards are a crucial piece of protective equipment for athletes participating in contact sports, such as boxing, football, hockey, martial arts and basketball. They help prevent injury to the mouth, teeth, and jaw. A properly fitted mouthguard can absorb and distribute the impact from a blow to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth and jaw injuries.

Just as you would wear a uniform for a particular sport, consider this an essential part of your uniform. You wouldn´t go in the ring or on a court naked, so don´t leave your mouth exposed either.

There are many types of mouthguards, but athletes generally choose from the following types: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-fitted.

Stock mouthguards are the least expensive and come pre-formed, but do not fit as well and offer less protection.

Boil-and-bite mouthguards can be fitted to the individual’s mouth by heating and moulding the plastic material, providing a better fit.

Custom-fitted mouthguards are made by a dentist and provide the best fit and protection. A dentist takes an impression of your upper and lower teeth and an impression of your bite. The dental lab then makes a sports nightguard that is a perfect fit for you and appropriate for your sport.

It is important to have a mouthguard that is a comfortable fit as you need to use it. If it is bulky, feels clumsy in your mouth or doesn´t fit properly, chances are you either won´t use it, or it will fall out when you need it the most which can then lead to injury. The dentist is the right person to tell you which one is best for you and to fit it once the lab has made it.

It is essential to clean the mouthguard with toothpaste and a toothbrush when you take it out and store it properly in the case provided. It also needs to be checked by your dentist especially after a hard hit to the face or head. If it is broken it needs to be replaced. Bring it with you to a dental appointment. It is important that after any treatment the mouthguard still fits.

Mouthguards are an essential part of protective equipment for athletes, and it is important to choose the right type and properly maintain it. A well-fitted mouthguard can help prevent serious injuries and keep athletes safe while playing their sport.

Consult your dentist to help you decide which nightguard is best for you for the sport you play.