The importance of mouthguards in sports for protecting your smile
Whether you’re playing rugby, boxing, or even a casual game of football, sports can sometimes lead to unexpected injuries. While we often focus on protecting our bodies, it’s equally important to consider the safety of our teeth. Wearing a mouthguard in sport is one of the most effective ways to protect your smile. Let’s explore why mouthguards are essential and how they help prevent dental injuries.
How mouthguards protect your teeth
A mouthguard is a flexible, protective device that covers your teeth and gums to reduce the risk of injury during contact sports. When an impact occurs, the mouthguard acts as a shock absorber, distributing the force across a broader area and helping to cushion your teeth, jaw, and soft tissues like your lips and gums.
Without a mouthguard, you’re at higher risk for:
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Tooth loss
- Fractures in the jaw
- Cuts to the lips and tongue
Why wearing a mouthguard in sport is important for athletes
Any athlete, whether professional or recreational, is vulnerable to dental injuries. According to the British Dental Association, athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to experience dental trauma. Mouthguards are particularly vital for sports that involve physical contact or the risk of falling, like hockey, rugby, martial arts, or basketball.
Benefits of mouthguards in sport
- Prevents tooth and jaw injuries
The most obvious benefit of a mouthguard is protecting against damage to your teeth and jaw. In high-impact sports, a blow to the mouth could lead to broken teeth, fractured jaws, or even knocked-out teeth. Wearing a mouthguard helps cushion the blow, reducing the likelihood of serious injury. - Protects braces and dental work
If you have braces, wearing a mouthguard is essential. Mouthguards prevent damage to both your teeth and braces, and they also reduce the risk of cutting your lips or cheeks on the braces during contact. For those with dental crowns, bridges, or implants, mouthguards offer a layer of protection to safeguard your dental work. - Reduces the risk of concussion
Some studies suggest that mouthguards might help absorb impact and reduce the risk of concussions during certain sports, though more research is needed in this area. While not a replacement for other protective gear like helmets, mouthguards add an extra layer of protection to reduce head and mouth injuries.
Types of mouthguards
There are several types of mouthguards in sport available, each offering different levels of protection and comfort:
- Stock mouthguards: Pre-formed and ready to wear, these are the least expensive but often bulky and uncomfortable, offering minimal protection.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards: These are softened in hot water and then moulded to your teeth, offering better protection than stock mouthguards. They are more customisable and can be purchased at most sporting goods stores.
- Custom-fitted mouthguards: These are made specifically for your teeth by your dentist, providing the best fit and the highest level of protection. Though more expensive, custom-fitted mouthguards are the most comfortable and durable option for serious athletes.
When should you wear a mouthguard in sport?
Mouthguards are essential for any sport that involves physical contact or poses a risk of falls, collisions, or equipment impact. This includes:
- Rugby
- Football
- Boxing
- Martial arts
- Basketball
- Hockey
- Skateboarding or cycling
Even for non-contact sports like gymnastics or skateboarding, the potential for accidents means that wearing a mouthguard is still a smart choice.
Caring for your mouthguard
To ensure your mouthguard remains effective, it’s important to take good care of it:
- Rinse it with water or mouthwash before and after use.
- Store it in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Check it regularly for wear and replace it if it becomes damaged.
- Avoid exposing it to high temperatures (such as leaving it in a hot car), as this can warp the material.
Wearing a mouthguard is a simple and effective way to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw from serious injuries during sports. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just enjoy casual games, don’t underestimate the importance of protecting your smile. Custom-fitted mouthguards offer the best level of comfort and protection, ensuring that you can play safely while reducing your risk of injury.
At well:o, we are bringing dental wellness to life. We’re here to make it easier to keep mouths healthy and happy. Check out our range of preventive hygiene treatments bespoke to each patient, by heading over to our treatment page.
