Getting ready for game day? One hit to the face can change everything. From cracked teeth to broken jaws, the risks are real. If you’ve been thinking of going to a dental clinic that offers mouthguard services near you, now’s the time to take that step. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a student-athlete, here’s what you need to know before stepping onto the field.
What Is a Sports Mouthguard?
A sports mouthguard is a soft, flexible device worn over the upper teeth. Its main job is to shield your teeth, tongue, lips, and jaw during physical activity.
Think of it as a helmet for your mouth. You wouldn’t ride a bike without one, right? The same logic applies here.
There are three types of mouthguards:
- Stock Mouthguards: Pre-formed and ready to wear. They’re cheap but often uncomfortable and don’t stay in place well.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Available at sporting goods stores. You heat them in water, then bite down for a semi-custom fit.
- Custom-Fit Mouthguards: Made by your dentist in Evergreen Park, these offer the best fit, feel, and protection.
While store-bought options might seem fine, comfort and fit are everything. If it’s uncomfortable, you won’t wear it—and that defeats the point.
Common Sports-Related Dental Injuries
Here’s what can happen when you don’t wear a mouthguard:
- Cracked or Broken Teeth
- Tooth Loss
- Jaw Fractures
- Lip and Tongue Injuries
- Root Damage
Basketball, hockey, wrestling, boxing, football—even skateboarding—come with a high chance of facial injuries. Surprisingly, non-contact sports like gymnastics or mountain biking carry risks too. The danger often shows up out of nowhere. One sharp elbow or an unexpected fall is all it takes. That’s why sports mouthguards are essential gear for anyone who takes their safety seriously.
Who Should Wear a Mouthguard?
If you or your child plays sports—contact or not—this applies to you. Mouthguards aren’t just for boxers or hockey players. Anyone active needs one.
Ideal candidates for mouthguards include:
- Kids and teens in school sports
- Adults in recreational leagues
- Athletes with braces or dental work
- Skateboarders, bikers, martial artists, and more
If there’s a chance of falling, crashing, or getting hit, put one in. It’s that simple.
Benefits of Wearing a Sports Mouthguard
Why bother with one more piece of gear? Because it could save you from painful, costly injuries.
Here’s what a sports mouthguard protects you from:
- Tooth trauma: Prevents cracks, chips, and tooth loss.
- Jaw injuries: Absorbs shock to minimize jaw fractures.
- Soft tissue wounds: Shields lips, cheeks, and tongue.
- Neck injuries: Helps reduce the impact that can travel to the neck.
- Concussions: May lower concussion risk by absorbing hits to the chin.
More than just protection, wearing a mouthguard builds confidence. You don’t second-guess yourself when going in for the ball or taking a hit. You play harder because you know you’re safe.
For those searching for mouthguard services near you, be sure to choose a provider who understands athletic safety, not just dental work.
Custom-Fit vs. Store-Bought: Which Is Better?
It’s tempting to grab something off the shelf. Quick. Cheap. Done. But here’s why custom-fit mouthguards win every time:
Custom-Fit Mouthguards:
- Tailored to your teeth and bite
- Comfortable to wear during long practices
- Won’t fall out during intense play
- Easier to speak and breathe with
Store-Bought Options:
- One-size-fits-all (but fits nobody well)
- May cause drooling or gagging
- Often too bulky for braces or dental work
- More likely to end up in your bag than in your mouth
With a custom option, you’re more likely to actually wear it—and that’s the whole point.
How to Care for Your Mouthguard
Treat your mouthguard like you treat your gear. Clean it. Store it safely. Check it often.
Mouthguard care tips:
- Rinse it with cold water after each use
- Brush it gently with a toothbrush (no toothpaste—it’s abrasive)
- Soak it in mouthwash or a mild solution weekly.
- Store in a ventilated container (not in your sweaty gym bag)
- Avoid heat—never leave it in a hot car or near a heater.
- Replace it if it’s worn, torn, or no longer fits well.
Taking care of it takes less than a minute. Skipping it? That can lead to bacteria, damage, or even illness.
What to Ask Your Dentist About Sports Mouthguards
A good dentist won’t just hand you a mouthguard and send you on your way. They’ll take time to understand your sport, your dental structure, and your safety needs.
Ask questions like:
- How thick should my mouthguard be for the sport I play?
- Can you make one that works with my braces?
- How long will it last?
- What happens if I grind my teeth?
- Will it affect my speech or breathing?
At a dental clinic, you’ll get honest answers and a product that truly fits. One that feels right.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your smile is just as important as your game-day prep. Don’t let a preventable injury sideline you. If you’re looking for expert care, Family Dental Care offers the protection you need. Get your custom sports mouthguard today and play with peace of mind. Schedule a visit now—your teeth will thank you every time you hit the field.
