The Hidden Benefits of Wearing a Sports Mouthguard

BY berlin73September 27, 2024September 27, 2024

Regarding sports safety, mouthguards usually get less importance in the discussion. Many sportsmen consider them only as a dental protection item. Still, using a sports mouthguard can have a lot of advantages outside only tooth protection. This post will discuss the understated benefits of wearing a sports mouthguard and the reasons every athlete should definitely have one.

Table of Contents

What is a Sports Mouthguard?

A sports mouthguard is a bespoke or prefabricated protective device worn over teeth to guard them against damage during physical exercise. Often worn in contact sports including basketball, hockey, and football, mouthguards are made to absorb shock and guard teeth, jaw, and gum damage.

1. Protecting Your Teeth

A sports mouthguard first and most importantly protects your teeth. From chipped teeth to knocked-out ones, athletes run danger of dental injury during training or games. A well-fitting mouthguard absorbs the force and greatly lowers the probability of these injuries.

2. Avoiding Damage to Jawbones

Unbelievably, a sports mouthguard can also assist avoid jaw damage. Players in contact sports often suffer unanticipated impacts to the jaw, which might cause dislocations or fractures. A mouthguard can absorb some of the stress and aid to stabilize the jaw, therefore lowering the possibility of major damage.

3. Lessening Concussion Risk

Although studies indicate a mouthguard may help lessen concussions’ severity, it cannot totally avoid them. A mouthguard reduces the force sent to the brain during impact by cushioning the jaw and teeth. In high-contact sports where head injuries are more typical, this extra layer of protection is very important.

4. Improving Performance

Finding out that using a mouthguard improves your sports performance could surprise you. You can concentrate more on your game when you’re not bothered about dental damage or jaw discomfort. A comfortable mouthguard can also assist with breathing and speaking, so facilitating team communication during high intensity games.

5. Promoting Oral Health

Sports mouthguards also help with general oral health, another unseen advantage. Mouthguards can help to reduce the wear and tear on tooth enamel by separating the teeth from outside pressures. They also help to protect the gums from damage, therefore lowering the likelihood of gum disease and other oral health problems.

6. Custom Fit for Peak Comfort

Many sportsmen find mouthguards uncomfortable, hence they avoid them. Custom-fit mouthguards, made especially for the form of your mouth, are available, though. This degree of customizing guarantees a good fit, which facilitates comfortable wear for long durations. You are more likely to keep a well-fitting mouthguard in during games and drills.

7. Reasonably Restricted Protection

When considering the cost of dental repairs, a sports mouthguard is a minimal fee paid for the protection it offers. Over time, a quality mouthguard will save you a lot of money on dental expenses. Many mouthguards are quite robust and, with good maintenance, will last several seasons.

Conclusion

A basic but effective approach to improve your safety on the field or court is wearing a sports mouthguard. A mouthguard can help avoid jaw injuries, lower concussion risks, increase performance, and improve general oral health in addition to guarding your teeth. Thus, regardless of your level of experience as an athlete, never undervalue the need of this vital piece of equipment. While you play the game you love, invest in a quality sports mouthguard to guard your smile.