Game On: Why Mouthguards Matter for Spring Sports
Spring brings longer days and a full calendar of baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, and pickup games at the park. A mouthguard is one of the simplest pieces of sports gear, and it can make a real difference when a ball, an elbow, or a fall comes your way.
How a Mouthguard Protects Your Smile
A mouthguard is a flexible cover that fits over your teeth, usually the upper ones. When something strikes your face, it helps absorb and spread out the force of the blow. That cushioning can lower the chance of chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth. It also creates a barrier between your teeth and the soft tissues of your mouth, so your lips, cheeks, and tongue are less likely to be cut during contact.
Not Just for Contact Sports
Many people picture football or hockey when they think of mouthguards, but injuries can happen in almost any active pastime. A stray ball, a collision with a teammate, or a tumble from a bike can all lead to a dental injury. Activities where a mouthguard is often a smart idea include:
- Baseball and softball
- Basketball and volleyball
- Soccer and lacrosse
- Martial arts and wrestling
- Skateboarding, mountain biking, and other action sports
Adults who play in weekend leagues benefit from protection just as much as kids and teens do.
Choosing the Right Type
There are three main kinds of mouthguards. Stock mouthguards come ready to wear but often fit loosely and can make breathing or talking harder. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are softened in hot water and then shaped by biting down, which gives a closer fit. Custom mouthguards are made by a dental team from an impression of your teeth, so they usually feel the most comfortable and stay in place well. The best mouthguard is one that fits well enough that you will actually wear it every time you play.
Keeping Your Mouthguard Clean
Rinse your mouthguard before and after each use, and brush it gently with a toothbrush and cool water. Store it in a vented case so it can dry, and keep it out of hot cars and direct sun, which can warp its shape. Replace it if it becomes worn, torn, or loose, and remember that growing children may need a new one as their mouths change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear a mouthguard with braces?
Yes, and it is especially important, since a blow to the mouth can damage brackets and the soft tissue around them. Ask your dentist or orthodontist about a design that fits comfortably over braces.
Should a mouthguard be worn at practice, too?
Yes. Injuries can happen at practice just as easily as during a game, so it is best to wear a mouthguard any time there is a chance of contact or a fall.
Does a mouthguard make it hard to breathe or talk?
A well-fitting mouthguard should let you breathe and speak fairly normally. If yours feels bulky or makes you gag, it may not fit properly.
Before the season gets into full swing, schedule a checkup with Tatum Point Dentistry in Phoenix, AZ. It is a great time to make sure your teeth are healthy and to talk about the mouthguard options that make sense for your game.