Ask Your Corpus Christi Dentist: 3 Ways Mouthguards Protect You When You Play Sports

August 15, 2018

Ways Mouthguards Protect You When You Play Sports

Why Wearing a Mouthguard Is Essential for Athletes?

Wearing a mouthguard is crucial if you play a contact sport such as football, basketball, or soccer. Even in sports where accidental contact with a ball is possible—like baseball—or for activities such as skateboarding, BMX biking, and rollerblading, a mouthguard can help prevent serious oral injuries.

Mouthguards are made from strong yet flexible materials designed to shield your teeth, gums, and jaw from impact.

Here are three key ways a mouthguard protects you while playing sports.

1. Absorbs Impact Force

Any blow to the face or jaw carries a significant amount of force. A mouthguard helps absorb and distribute this energy, reducing the risk of serious injuries.

  • It prevents teeth from slamming together, lowering the risk of fractures or chips.
  • It helps minimize the chance of jaw fractures.
  • Reduces the likelihood of neck trauma, which can occur due to substantial facial impacts.

2. Prevents Broken Teeth

Mouthguards act as a protective barrier that disperses impact energy across multiple teeth instead of a single point.

  • The mouthguard spreads out the force if you get hit in the face with a ball or elbow.
  • This decreases the risk of cracked, chipped, or knocked-out teeth.

3. Reduces Lip and Tongue Injuries

Mouthguards provide a cushion between your upper teeth and the soft tissues in your mouth, reducing the likelihood of cuts and lacerations.

  • It prevents your teeth from biting into your tongue during an impact.
  • It shields your lips from getting cut against your teeth.

Get a Custom Mouthguard for Maximum Protection

A custom-fit mouthguard offers the best protection and comfort. Unlike over-the-counter options, a professionally made mouthguard ensures a snug fit that won’t interfere with breathing or speaking.

If you need a high-quality mouthguard, visit your Corpus Christi dentist today.

Schedule an appointment with our dental office to ensure your smile stays protected while you enjoy your favorite sports.

Protect Your Smile – Watch This Video

Your smile is worth protecting at any age. Watch this video from the American Dental Association to learn why wearing a mouthguard is essential for safeguarding your mouth and teeth.