Who Needs to Wear a Sports Mouthguard?

content.team • October 31, 2024

Boxer in Denver inserts mouthguardSports mouthguards  aren’t just for pro athletes. Active people need extra mouth protection during sports, even if they spend most of their time behind a desk.

Dr. Louisa Gallegos  prioritizes protecting your smile from preventable damage. A dentist since 1983, Dr. Gallegos has extensive experience helping her patients safeguard their oral health. One key way to protect your teeth, especially when playing sports, is wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard.  This essential gear can help prevent serious injuries and keep your smile healthy and strong.

Why Wear a Sports Mouthguard?

A sports mouthguard is a plastic protective device worn over your teeth to safeguard against impact. It helps prevent dental injuries such as:

  • Chipped or Cracked Teeth : Physical impact can easily damage teeth, leading to costly restoration procedures.
  • Tooth Loss : A mouthguard cushions the force of a blow, reducing the risk of knocked-out teeth.
  • Jaw Injuries : A mouthguard can help prevent fractures or dislocation by cushioning the jaw.
  • Soft Tissue Damage : A mouthguard shields your  tongue,  lips, and inner cheeks from being bitten or cut during an impact.

Wearing a properly fitted sports mouthguard reduces the risk of these injuries and helps protect your overall oral health.

Who Should Wear a Sports Mouthguard?

If you engage in sports with a risk of impact to the mouth or face,  it’s wise to wear a mouthguard .  Whether you play contact or non-contact sports, a mouthguard can protect you.

  • Contact sports : Athletes involved in sports like football, hockey, basketball, and martial arts are at high risk for dental injuries due to the physical nature of the games.
  • Non-contact sports : Even solo activities like cycling, gymnastics, or skateboarding can cause accidents that significantly damage your teeth.

No matter what your favorite sport is, wearing a mouthguard is a simple way to safeguard your teeth. Investing in a mouthguard now may help you avoid extensive dental procedures, like  crowns  or  bonding , later.

Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Mouthguards

While you can purchase over-the-counter mouthguards, a custom-fitted mouthguard made by Dr. Gallegos makes offers superior protection.  Custom mouthguards are tailored to the unique dimensions of your teeth and mouth, providing a better fit and more comfort.  They’re also far more durable than store-bought options. 

Custom Sports Mouthguards in Denver, CO

A custom-fitted mouthguard is an excellent solution for  protecting your teeth during sports.  Call our office at 303-316-4034 to  schedule an appointment  at our Denver office.

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