The Importance of Wearing a Mouth Guard During Contact Sports

Last updated 4 months ago

Sports are a great way to have fun, stay in shape, and blow off steam, but it is essential that you wear a mouth guard when participating in any full-contact activity. A simple mouth guard can be the difference between a painful dental emergency and a good game!

Protection
The main reason that you should wear a mouth guard when participating in contact sports, like football and hockey, is to prevent trauma to the teeth. When you’re taking hard hits, a mouth guard can absorb shock that would otherwise damage teeth. Without a guard, you risk cracking, chipping, or losing teeth all together. This type of trauma can cause painful dental problems that are costly and uncomfortable to deal with. By simply putting on a guard, you’re saving yourself time, money, and pain in the long run.

Types of Guards
Many people complain that mouth guards are unnecessary, but you never see an NFL or NBA player on the field or court without one. There are different types of mouth guards available, and selecting the right one for you can prevent discomfort and dental disaster.

Custom made: A custom-fitted mouth guard is made just for you. Each custom-made mouth guard has depressions that fit your teeth exactly. This is the most comfortable guard available and it offers the most protection.

Stock Mouth Protectors: You can find these at most sporting goods stores; however, they’re not guaranteed to fit and may be uncomfortable. They are less expansive than other options and easy to replace.

Boil-and-Bite: This type of mouth guard is semi-formed to your teeth. These can also be purchased as most sporting goods stores and are reasonably priced. When placed in hot water, the plastic softens, allowing you to bite down to form the guard to your teeth.

Mouth guards are an essential part of your uniform when playing contact sports. A dental emergency that may require surgery and results in lost teeth can easily be avoided by always wearing your mouth guard. For more information, contact 209 NYC Dentist at (877) 378-2864.