At Jeff Gray DDS – Sedation & Cosmetic Dentistry, we treat dental emergencies caused by sports injuries. These include knocked-out teeth, broken teeth, and mouth lacerations.

Many of these injuries could have been prevented (or rendered less severe) with the proper protective gear.

All athletes who participate in contact sports are in jeopardy of injuries to their mouths and teeth. It doesn’t matter if you are a professional athlete or a 6-year-old playing youth soccer.

When it comes to protecting your mouth, a custom-fitted mouthguard is an integral piece of athletic gear that should be used from an early age.

WHAT AGE GROUP HAS THE MOST INJURIES?

8- to 12-year-old kids who participate in basketball, hockey, baseball, soccer, rugby, football, and lacrosse are typically most affected by lost or damaged teeth. But even those that participate in non-contact sports like skateboarding, mountain biking, or climbing can benefit from wearing a custom mouthguard.

Mouthguards are made of strong, flexible materials that are designed to protect your teeth, gum, and jaw in case of an impact. A mouthguard forms a protective layer between your teeth and the point of impact. The following are three important ways a mouthguard can protect you while playing sports.

ABSORB FORCE

Any bump to the face or jaw involves force or energy. A mouthguard absorbs some of the energy, ensuring that the potential harm caused by the impact is limited. The cushioning effect of a mouthguard can prevent your teeth from being slammed together. By absorbing force, mouthguards can also help prevent jaw fractures and neck trauma.

PREVENT BROKEN TEETH

Another benefit of using a mouthguard is that it disperses the energy directed at the teeth. For example, if you are hit in the mouth with a hockey stick, the mouthguard spreads out the energy that accompanies the impact. This can prevent broken teeth by minimizing the chance that a single tooth will take the whole brunt of the force.

AVOID LIP AND TONGUE INJURIES

Mouthguards cover the upper teeth entirely. This creates a functional barrier between your teeth and the rest of your mouth. This decreases the chance of lip and tongue injuries by making it harder for your teeth to cut your lip or your tongue.

With a tailor-made mouthguard, you will make sure you get an effective and comfortable fit. It makes playing sports safer for your smile.