If you are an athlete and play a competitive sport there are some facts about mouthguards that are important to understand. Even if you are a parent who’s child likes to participate in rec. sports, mouthguards are something to consider. Did you know that an athlete is 60 times more likely to suffer harm to their teeth if they are not wearing a mouthguard? No matter the sport, it is always a good idea to protect your mouth and teeth. A mouthguard is an important part of athletic gear, and the earlier you incorporate a mouthguard into your or your child’s sports life the better. People think of mouthguards for sports like boxing, football, hockey and lacrosse, but it is becoming more and more important to wear mouthguards for other non contact sports like basketball,baseball, gymnastics, volleyball and skateboarding.
There are many benefits to mouthguards for athletes including the obvious, where a mouthguard can help buffer a blow that would otherwise crack, break or damage teeth. A mouthguard can help protect lips, tongues and cheeks from being cut or punctured by teeth. Research shows that a mouthguard may even reduce the rate and severity of concussions.
There are three types of mouthguards, but the type that is most comfortable and useful to athletes is a custom, dentist made athletic mouthguard. This superior choice is easy and comfortable to wear, making it easy to communicate with teammates. With a custom fitted mouthguard athletes can feel confident that their teeth and mouth are shielding from most injuries. Sports related dental injuries can have a lifelong impact on an athlete and cost thousands of dollars to treat. If you or your child is an avid, even an average athlete; ask your dentist about a custom fitted sports mouthguard at your next dental appointment.