Mouthguards are Your Secret Weapon in Sports ?

Love playing sports? Whether it’s on the court, field, or track, staying active is great fun. But with all that excitement, there’s always a risk of getting hurt, especially to your face and mouth. If you’re into sports where you might get hit or fall, wearing a mouthguard is a must. This includes sports like:

• Football
• Basketball
• Hockey
• Lacrosse
• Soccer
• Baseball & Softball
• Gymnastics
• Skateboarding
• Martial Arts

Why Should You Wear a Mouthguard?

Think of a mouthguard as a small helmet for your mouth. It helps absorb shocks and prevent serious injuries like:

• Chipped or Broken Teeth: A mouthguard takes the hit, protecting your teeth from cracking or breaking.
• Knocked-Out Teeth: It cushions the blow, reducing the chance of losing a tooth.
• Cuts and Bruises: It protects the soft parts of your mouth like your lips, tongue, and cheeks from getting cut or bruised.
• Jaw Injuries: It spreads out the force of an impact, lowering the risk of jaw dislocations or fractures.

Choosing the Right Mouthguard

There are three main types of mouthguards:

1. Stock Mouthguards: These come ready-made in different sizes. They’re easy to find in sports stores and pharmacies but might not fit perfectly.
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These can be softened in hot water and then molded to fit your teeth better than stock mouthguards.
3. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: Made by a dentist, these offer the best fit and comfort. They’re more expensive but provide the best protection.

Getting the Best Fit

A good mouthguard should be:

• Comfortable: It shouldn’t make it hard to breathe or talk.
• Secure: It should stay in place while you’re active.
• Clear: You should be able to speak clearly while wearing it.

Taking Care of Your Mouthguard

• Rinse: Wash it with water before and after each use.
• Clean: Use mild soap and lukewarm water to clean it regularly. Don’t use hot water as it can warp the mouthguard.
• Store: Keep it in a ventilated container when not in use to prevent bacteria from growing.
• Check: Look for wear and tear and replace it as needed to ensure it keeps protecting you.

Remember, a well-maintained mouthguard can save you from a lot of pain and expensive dental bills. If you ever have an emergency, don’t hesitate to see a dentist.