Why do sports cause damage to teeth and jaws? Though sports are enjoyable and healthy activities, falls, elbow hits, or a ball hitting you can quickly damage teeth. Many families visit a dental clinic in Oakville and ask about sports mouthguards and how they protect smiles while playing. Awareness of mouthguard use helps players and athletes stay safe and confident at any age.
What Are Sports Mouth Guards?
Sport mouthguards are flexible dental devices worn over the teeth during play. These fixtures allow flexion (cushioning effect) between the upper and lower teeth during occlusal contact. These guards are used in contact sports like hockey, football, basketball, and soccer, as well as in martial arts. However, they may be helpful in any situation where falls or collisions occur.
A properly fitting mouth guard will stay in place, allow you to breathe easily, be comfortable, and protect your mouth.
How Mouth Guards Protect Teeth From Injuries
Many people ask how mouth guards protect teeth so effectively. The answer is simple: they spread and absorb force. When the mouth takes a hit, the guard reduces direct pressure on the teeth and jaw.
Sports mouth guards help by:
- Preventing broken or chipped teeth
- Reducing the risk of knocked-out teeth
- Protecting tooth roots and gums
- Lowering the chance of cuts to the lips and cheeks
Instead of one tooth taking all the force, the guard spreads the impact across a wider area.
How Sports Mouth Guards Protect the Jaw
The healing of the jaw may take a long time. Pushing the lower jaw forward with excessive force can cause joint pain, fractures, and other injuries. A mouth guard by a dentist near you protects the teeth from excessive force and injury by acting as a soft barrier.
This protection helps:
- Reduce jaw tension while hitting.
- Reduce the likelihood of jaw fractures.
- Avoid creating any tension in the jaw.
Eventually, this can help prevent pain and headaches.
Benefits of Sports Mouth Guard for Athletes
Understanding the benefits of sports mouthguards helps athletes see why they are essential. These benefits go beyond just tooth protection.
Key benefits include:
- Fewer dental emergencies
- Lower risk of jaw injuries
- Less pain after impact
- Better focus during play
- More confidence while competing
Athletes who feel protected often play with more confidence and less fear of injury.
Why Fit Matters More Than People Think
A mouth guard that doesn’t fit well may slip, feel bulky, or make breathing difficult. Often makes the athlete stop wearing it. For the guard not to shift whilst doing sports, comfort is key.
A suitable match.
- Coats teeth uniformly.
- Remains safe without clenching.
- Feels at ease while playing.
A loose or painful feeling of a guard may not be protective.
When Should Athletes Wear a Mouth Guard?
Mouth guards should be worn during both games and practice sessions. Injuries can happen anytime, not just during matches.
Sports where mouth guards are highly recommended include:
- Hockey
- Football
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Martial arts
- Skateboarding
Even non-contact sports can involve falls or collisions.
How to Care for a Sports Mouth Guard
Proper care helps a mouth guard last longer and stay safe to use.
Simple care tips:
- Rinse before and after use.
- Clean gently with cool water.
- Store in a ventilated case
- Keep away from heat
- Check for wear or damage.
A damaged guard should be replaced to maintain protection.
Protect Your Smile the Smart Way!
What is the importance of mouth guards for sports to the teeth and jaws? These services reduce the impact force, protect the jaw, and ensure athletes’ safety while enjoying the sport. At Calma Dental, we are here to help if you or your child plays sports and needs adequate protection. The team will ensure your comfort, safety, and oral health for many years to come. Schedule an appointment now to secure your smile with confidence and an efficient dental visit.
FAQs
Do mouth guards impact your breathing?
Absolutely not. A mouth guard that fits correctly will allow normal breathing and clear speech. This means it should not impact performance.
Can kids use sports mouth guards?
Yes. Children and teens benefit greatly from sports mouthguards, especially during their growing years, when teeth and jaws need extra protection.
Are mouth guards only for contact sports?
No. Mouth guards are helpful for any sport that carries a risk of falls, collisions, or accidental impacts to the face.
How often should a mouth guard be replaced?
A mouth guard should be replaced if it becomes loose, worn out, cracked, or no longer fits properly due to growth or changes in the teeth.