Facial injuries are common in sports, and losing teeth can disrupt smiling, eating, and talking. To prevent mouth injuries, wearing athletic mouthguards is essential.
Mouthguards act as protectors for your mouth, minimizing the risk of facial injuries and preventing teeth from getting damaged or falling out. It’s important to include this protective gear in your standard sports equipment from an early stage. While collision and contact sports have higher chances of facial injuries, even non-contact sports can cause harm.
Types of mouthguards:
Custom-Made: These mouthguards are made specifically for you by your dentist, tailored to fit your mouth perfectly. They offer the best protection but can be more expensive.
Boil and Bite: Available in sports stores and drugstores, these mouthguards are softened in hot water and then molded to fit your teeth. They offer a good fit and are more affordable.
Stock: These are the most affordable option and come ready to wear. However, they might not fit well, making talking and breathing difficult due to their bulkiness.
Mouthguards for Braces
If you have braces, wearing a properly fitted mouthguard is even more critical. A blow to the face can cause significant injury to both your teeth and orthodontic equipment. Selecting the right mouthguard will ensure your braces and teeth are well-protected.