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Sports Mouthguard: Tooth Protection in Sports

A sports mouthguard protects teeth, jaw and soft tissues from injuries during physical activity. It is especially recommended for contact and combat sports.

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Things worth knowing about "Sports mouthguard"

A sports mouthguard protects teeth, jaw and soft tissues from injuries during physical activity. It is especially recommended for contact and combat sports.

What Is a Sports Mouthguard?

A sports mouthguard is a protective device made of flexible plastic material, worn in the mouth during physical activity to cushion and protect the teeth, gums, lips, tongue, and jaw from impact injuries. It typically covers the upper teeth and acts as a shock absorber during collisions, falls, or direct blows to the face. Dental associations worldwide recommend mouthguards as one of the most effective preventive measures against sports-related dental injuries.

Why Is a Sports Mouthguard Important?

Oral and facial injuries are among the most common sports-related injuries. Without proper protection, athletes risk the following:

Fractured or knocked-out teeth
Damage to the supporting structures of the teeth (periodontium)
Lacerations to the lips, cheeks, and tongue
Jaw joint injuries
Reduction of concussion severity by absorbing impact forces

Research confirms that a properly fitted sports mouthguard significantly reduces the risk of dental trauma during athletic activities.

Sports Where a Mouthguard Is Recommended

A sports mouthguard is recommended or even mandatory in many sports, including:

Combat sports: Boxing, kickboxing, karate, taekwondo, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
Team sports: Rugby, American football, ice hockey, lacrosse, field hockey
Other contact sports: Wrestling, judo, basketball, soccer
Cycling and winter sports: BMX, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding

Types of Sports Mouthguards

Stock Mouthguards

These pre-formed, ready-to-wear mouthguards are the most affordable option and are available at most sporting goods stores. However, they offer limited protection and comfort due to their generic fit.

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

These thermoplastic mouthguards are softened in boiling water and then molded to the teeth by biting down. They provide a better fit than stock mouthguards and are a popular mid-range option for recreational athletes.

Custom-Fitted Mouthguards

Fabricated by a dentist using an impression or digital scan of the teeth, custom mouthguards offer the best fit, comfort, and level of protection. They are recommended by professional dental and sports medicine organizations for serious athletes.

Care and Hygiene

Proper care of a sports mouthguard is essential to maintain its hygiene and effectiveness:

Rinse with cold water and clean with a toothbrush and mild soap after each use
Store in a ventilated protective case when not in use
Avoid exposure to heat or direct sunlight to prevent distortion
Inspect regularly for cracks, tears, or worn areas and replace as needed

When to See a Dentist

Athletes should consult a dentist if they experience a dental injury despite wearing a mouthguard, if the mouthguard no longer fits properly, or after significant dental changes -- especially in children and adolescents whose teeth are still developing. Regular dental check-ups ensure the mouthguard continues to provide adequate protection.

References

American Dental Association (ADA) - Mouth Guards: https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/mouth-guards (accessed 2024)
Knapik, J.J. et al. - Mouthguards in Sport Activities. Sports Medicine, 2007; 37(2):117-144.
Newsome, P.R., Tran, D.C., Cooke, M.S. - The role of the mouthguard in the prevention of sports-related dental injuries. International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry, 2001; 11(6):396-404.

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