Try as you might, it’s impossible to predict when an accident might happen. That said, there are things you can do to protect yourself should anything occur. This is particularly true for athletes engaged in intensive activity in close proximity with others because one blow to the face can be powerful enough to knock out one or more of your teeth. Fortunately, your dentist can fit you or anyone in your family with a mouthguard to shield them so that you can feel confident that no matter what, your smile is safe. Keep reading to learn more!
What is a Mouthguard?
Mouthguards are plastic or laminate U-shaped covers that are worn over your teeth to defend them during physical activities. They protect your pearly whites along with your lips, tongue, and cheeks from harm. They evenly distribute the force of any impact among all your teeth so that no single one bears the brunt of the blow. This prevents damage like chips, cracks, fractures, and even tooth loss. It’s important to wear them for the entirety of your game or match because danger could strike at any time.
When Do I Need a Mouthguard?
It’s wise for any athlete, professional or otherwise, to take precautions to keep themselves healthy and whole. With that in mind, many schools and organizations require that those registered in sports or other physical activities have a mouthguard. Even if it’s not requested, though, it’s a good idea to have one if you’re a part of:
- Team sports with a high chance of incidents like soccer, basketball, or volleyball.
- Action sports that could result in injury such as snowboarding, biking, or skiing.
- High-contact sports like martial arts, football, hockey, lacrosse, rugby, or boxing.
How Do I Find a Mouthguard?
Mouthguards aren’t difficult to find, but it’s important to get one that fits you well. The more snuggly it settles over your teeth, the better the protection it affords them. The different types are:
- Stock mouthguards which come in a variety of shapes and sizes. These are often found in sporting goods stores and are relatively inexpensive, however, they do not provide a customized fit.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards are also commercially available and are molded to your teeth when you initially wet and bite into them. These fit better than stock options but aren’t the same quality as the ones that come from your dentist.
- Custom-made mouthguards may be more costly but are the safest option because they’ll fit like a glove. Your dentist has the specialized training and instruments to provide you with a mouthguard made of professional-grade materials.
With so many easily accessible options to select from, you should have no trouble finding a mouthguard to safeguard your smile all season long!
About the Author
Dr. Linda A. Steele has almost 30 years of experience improving lives by providing a full range of dental services to patients of all ages. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery at Baylor College of Dentistry, now known as the Texas A&M Health Science Center at Dallas School of Dentistry. She then completed a pediatric residency at the Children’s Mercy Hospital Kansas City, MO. She believes you and your children deserve to feel like a star at each appointment, so she and her friendly staff go the extra mile so every patient stays relaxed and comfortable. If you or your child need a mouthguard, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (972) 640-7432.