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:
- Stock Mouthguards: These come ready-made in different sizes. They’re easy to find in sports stores and pharmacies but might not fit perfectly.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These can be softened in hot water and then molded to fit your teeth better than stock mouthguards.
- 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.