Whether you’re on the field, the court, or the ice, sports are a fantastic way to stay active, build confidence, and have fun. But with the excitement of competition comes the risk of injury, especially to your mouth and teeth. It is thus seriously recommended that a mouthguard should be worn.
Moreover, mouthguards do so much more than protect teeth. Serious injuries can be avoided, performance can be increased, and a mouthguard is an important item of any athlete’s gear. If one plays contact sports or any activities where falling and impacting happen often, it would be worthwhile to consider a custom-fit mouthguard.
The Importance of Mouthguards in Sports
Mouthguards are soft, flexible devices that fit over the teeth, shielding the teeth from injury due to impact. They are especially helpful for different sports like football, hockey, basketball, martial arts, boxing, and even skateboarding or cycling-any activity wherein a person is exposed to the possibility of falling or getting hit in the face with an object.
Sport mouthguards in Grande Prairie are only made to perfectly fit one’s ideal and provide better comfort and protection compared to those bought over the counter. They’re created by your dental professional and shaped to suit your specific bite.
Top Mouthguard Benefits for Athletes
Protects Teeth from Damage
One of the biggest mouthguard advantages for athletes is protection against cracked, chipped, or knocked-out teeth. A strong impact without a guard can cost thousands in dental repair, not to mention a lot of pain.
Shields the Jaw and Soft Tissues
A mouthguard doesn’t just protect your teeth. It also helps prevent injuries to your lips, cheeks, and tongue. In sports with high contact or sudden movement, a guard acts as a cushion that reduces trauma.
Reduces the Risk of Jaw Injuries
A hit to the lower face can cause your jaw to slam shut, increasing the chance of a jaw fracture. Mouthguards help absorb that impact, lessening the blow and protecting your jaw joint.
May Help Prevent Concussions
While mouthguards can’t prevent concussions entirely, they may reduce the severity by softening the blow during a collision. They provide a buffer that can lessen the shock to your brain from a strong hit.
Boosts Confidence in Play
Knowing your teeth and jaw are protected can give you the confidence to play harder and focus on your game, not your safety. This is one of the most underrated benefits of wearing a mouthguard, especially for younger athletes.
Why Custom Mouth Guards Are Better?
While you can buy mouthguards at sporting goods stores, these “boil-and-bite” options often don’t fit well. A poorly fitted guard can be uncomfortable, make it hard to breathe, and even cause gagging.
Custom sport mouthguards in Grande Prairie offer:
- A perfect fit tailored to your bite
- Better protection and durability
- Greater comfort and easier breathing
- Longer lifespan than store-bought guards
Getting a custom mouthguard from a professional dentist in Grande Prairie ensures you’re wearing gear that truly works for your unique needs.
When Should Athletes Replace Their Mouth Guards?
Even the best mouthguards don’t last forever. It’s time for a replacement if:
- It feels loose or worn out
- There are cracks or holes
- It doesn’t fit as well as it used to
- You’ve had dental work like braces or new fillings
Most athletes need a new mouthguard at least once a year, especially young players whose mouths are still growing.
Play Smart, Stay Protected With A Mouthguard!
Mouthguards are a small investment with big benefits. They protect your smile, prevent injuries, and give you peace of mind while playing your favorite sport. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a competitive athlete, don’t take chances with your teeth.
At Cobblestone Dental, we provide high-quality, custom-fit sports mouthguards in Grande Prairie designed to keep athletes of all ages safe and confident on the field. If you’re looking for a trusted dentist in Grande Prairie, we’re here to help protect your smile, one game at a time.
Book your consultation today and give your teeth the protection they deserve!