For some, life isn’t about sitting at a desk or watching Netflix. They’d rather be out in the world and moving! If you play sports or take your skating seriously, you probably know to wear a helmet, pads, or gloves. But do you ever think about your teeth? That’s where a custom-fitted mouthguard comes in. It can save you from chipped teeth, soft tissue injuries, and even jaw fractures. But what sports really depend on this small piece of gear to safeguard your smile? Keep reading to find out.
Football and Rugby
These high-contact sports are notorious for collisions. A mouthguard cushions the force of impact, protecting your teeth and jaw while reducing your risk of concussions. It’s one of the most important parts of your uniform, right up there with your helmet!
Hockey (Ice, Inline, and Field)
There’s a reason why hockey players are often depicted with missing teeth in cartoons and other media. Whether it’s a stray puck, stick, or elbow, the sport is full of unexpected impacts. Mouthguards protect not just your teeth but also your lips, cheeks, and tongue from serious cuts during play.
Basketball
It may not be a full-contact sport, but elbows, falls, and fast breaks can lead to accidental hits to the mouth. Many players wear mouthguards to avoid expensive dental repairs from surprise smacks, whether it’s from a stray ball to the face or a sudden trip to the hard court.
Martial Arts
Whether you’re in karate, taekwondo, jiu-jitsu, or MMA, combat sports put your teeth at constant risk. A well-made mouthguard can absorb shock and friction from punches, kicks, and forceful grinding, keeping your bite and your confidence intact.
Skateboarding, BMX, & Extreme Sports
Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, wipeouts happen. And when they do, your face often takes the brunt of the fall. A mouthguard is a simple safeguard for anyone doing tricks or racing on wheels.
Can’t I Just Use a Mouthguard from the Store?
While you can grab a boil-and-bite guard from any sporting goods or big box store, a custom mouthguard from your dentist offers a better fit, more comfort, and superior protection. Plus, it’s easier to talk and breathe, which is important if you need to communicate with your teammates.
If your sport involves speed, contact, or the risk of a fall, you shouldn’t think of a mouthguard as optional. Protecting your teeth now means avoiding painful injuries and expensive fixes later. So, call your dentist today and see how they can help you keep you in the zone longer and stronger than ever.
About the Practice
At Blue Coast Dental Group, we’re dedicated to helping our patients protect their smiles both on and off the field. We provide custom-made mouthguards designed for comfort, durability, and maximum protection, whether you’re playing contact sports or enjoying recreational activities. Our goal is to keep your teeth safe so you can focus on doing what you love. Call (310) 424-3100 to schedule a consultation for an athletic mouthguard with us or visit our website to explore other services.