For many athletes, mouthguards aren’t high on their priority lists. However, over 5 million teeth get knocked out yearly during athletic events.[1] These injuries have negative and long-term consequences, often extending beyond tooth loss. You wouldn’t step onto the football field without your protective padding or helmet, would you? So why would you ignore the importance of a mouthguard? In Albion, getting a mouthguard is simple; wearing one is your best defense against dental injuries.
What Is a Mouthguard?
A sports mouthguard is worn over the upper teeth while playing sports to prevent a dental injury. These devices protect against cut lips, broken teeth, and other traumatic damage to the mouth.
You should wear a mouthguard if you are involved in any high-contact sports, including:
- Hockey
- Boxing
- Football
- Basketball
- Lacrosse
- Rugby
- Racquetball
- Volleyball
- Soccer
- Skateboarding
- Wrestling
- Skiing
This essential equipment should be in every athlete’s bag to protect against tooth injuries.
Types of Mouthguards
When picking a mouthguard in Albion, you have three choices: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom mouthguards.
You can buy stock or boil-and-bite mouthguards at retail stores, but you’ll need to visit your dentist for a custom mouthguard.
A stock mouthguard is convenient because it’s pre-made but might not fit right. An ill-fit could hurt your teeth and gums. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are also pre-made, but they create a more customized fit. They come in one size, and you get the proper fit by boiling it and biting down on it.
Custom mouthguards might cost more, but they do the best job of stopping dental sports injuries. Your dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create a custom-fit appliance.
Benefits of Wearing a Mouthguard in Albion
Regardless of which type of mouthguard you invest in, it is a vital piece of equipment that shouldn’t be overlooked. These devices offer numerous benefits to children and adult athletes.
1. Prevents Knocked-Out Teeth
No one wants their tooth knocked out, especially knowing it can be avoided. If you get hit, the mouthguard absorbs the force, not your tooth. This way, your tooth stays where it should, and you don’t get a hefty dentist bill.
2. Guards More Than Teeth
Sports mouthguards are perfect for protecting your teeth, but they do more than that. They also protect the soft tissues, gums, tongue, and lips by absorbing the shock from hard or sudden hits. Mouthguards spread the force so one area doesn’t take the damage.
3. Protects Restorations
Athletes with dental restorations must be careful with braces, implants, and crowns. If these get broken, it could require expensive replacements or repairs, not to mention the pain to your mouth. Using a mouthguard minimizes the impact if you get hit, lowering the chances your dental work will get damaged.
4. Prevents Concussions
Concussions get a lot of attention in sports today. Helmets help keep your head safe, but adding a mouthguard can make a significant difference. A mouthguard helps by absorbing the impact and keeping the jaw from moving too much. Even though wearing a helmet is vital, don’t forget to wear your mouthguard when you play.
5. Saves Money
Not wearing a mouthguard can lead to serious dental injuries. Protecting this sensitive area helps you prevent extensive dental work and saves you money. It’s always better to stop the problem before it starts!
Protect Your Athlete With a Mouthguard in Albion
Wearing a mouthguard adds cushioning to protect your teeth, head, and jaw. Get yours today by scheduling an appointment at Albion Family Dentistry. Contact us today! Call us at 585-589-9044.
Sources:
[1] https://www.uab.edu/news/youcanuse/item/7713-sports-safety-avoiding-mouth-injuries