Participation in sports is a fantastic way to stay active and healthy, but it also comes with certain risks. One such risk is dental injury. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, up to 20% of all sports-related injuries are maxillofacial injuries. That's why wearing a sports mouthguard is essential for any athlete. Not only can it prevent broken teeth and other oral injuries, but it may also lessen the force of impact transmitted to the brain.
Sports mouthguards are designed to protect your teeth, jaws, and soft tissues in and around the oral cavity from injury. They act as a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, reducing the risk of damage caused by a blow to the face. In addition, some studies suggest that wearing a mouthguard may help reduce the severity of concussions.
While all athletes can benefit from wearing a sports mouthguard, they are especially crucial for those participating in contact sports like football, rugby, hockey, and boxing. However, even non-contact sports such as gymnastics, skateboarding, and skiing pose a risk of falling or getting hit with an object, making a mouthguard a wise choice.
There are several types of sports mouthguards available, each offering different levels of protection. Stock mouthguards come pre-formed and ready to wear, but they often lack a snug fit. Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a semi-custom fit by softening in hot water and then molding to the athlete's mouth. For the highest level of protection, consider getting a custom mouthguard made at our office.
Our custom mouthguards are individually crafted based on the unique specifics of your smile. They offer a precise fit while providing optimal protection and shock absorption, allowing for easy breathing and speaking. Plus, they're comfortable enough to wear during even the most intense games or practices.
To ensure your sports mouthguard continues to provide optimal protection, it's important to take proper care of it. After each use, rinse your mouthguard with cold water and let it air dry. Store it in a protective case when not in use, and replace it every few seasons or as needed.
At the office of Wayne T. Yee, DDS, we believe that prevention is key to maintaining a healthy smile. That's why we offer custom sports mouthguards to help protect your teeth from injury during sports activities. For more information on how we can help you safeguard your winning smile, call us today.
