Mouth Guards for Sports: 6 Benefits You Should Know About

In the realm of contact sports such as rugby, hockey, football, boxing, basketball, the unpredictability of gameplay can often lead to unforeseen accidents or injuries. While participants take various precautions to safeguard their bodies, the protection of one's oral region is of paramount importance. Mouthguards serve as an essential protective measure, ensuring the safety of teeth and gums during intense physical activities.

In simple terms, a mouthguard is a protective device for the mouth that covers the teeth and gums. Its main purpose is to prevent and reduce injury to the teeth, arches, lips, and gums. Think of it as a helmet but for your mouth! This article delves into the significance and benefits of mouthguards for sports.

The 6 Benefits of Wearing a Mouthguard While Playing Sports

1. Protection Against Dental Injuries

The primary reason to wear a mouthguard? To protect those precious teeth. Whether you're into boxing, basketball, or any contact sport, a sudden impact can lead to chipped or broken teeth. A mouthguard acts as a cushion, absorbing the shock.

2. Prevents Soft Tissue Injuries

Ever bitten your tongue or inner cheek during a game? The sheer pain of it can disturb your focus and ruin your game. A mouthguard ensures that in the heat of the moment, your teeth don't end up wounding the soft tissues of your mouth.

3. Reduces Risk of Jaw Injuries

A strong blow can dislocate or even fracture your jaw. Mouthguards help in distributing the force of the blow, reducing the risk of severe jaw injuries.

4. Prevents Tooth Loss

Imagine losing a tooth in the middle of a game! Not a pretty sight, right? Mouthguards for sports act as a barrier, preventing tooth displacement or loss during intense physical activity.

5. Reduced Risk Of Concussions

Wearing mouthguards may also help reduce the risk of concussion which are a high probablity during contact sports.

6. Keeps Your Teeth Clean

Wearing a mouthguard ensures that your teeth remain clean, even during the game. It acts as a barrier against dirt and debris.

7. Keeps Your Braces and Other Dental Restorations Safe

If you have dental crowns, bridges or braces, then playing a sport makes them vulnerable to damage. However, by wearing a mouthguard for sports you can remain at ease about your dental restorations and keep your mind focused on the game!

8. Money Saver

As goes the adage, ‘Prevention is better than cure’. Hence, wearing mouthguards and protecting one’s mouth can help avoid a lot of injuries and saving on the money spent recuperating from them. Not to forget the freedom from pain too!

Conclusion

In the world of contact sports, safety should always be a priority. And while we often focus on protecting our heads, knees, and elbows, our mouth needs equal attention. Mouthguards are an essential piece of protective equipment, ensuring that your smile remains intact, game after game. And remember, while you're safeguarding your teeth with a mouthguard, don't forget to keep them sparkling with makeO toothsi oral care products.

FAQs

Why are mouthguards essential for sports?

Mouthguards act as a protective shield, safeguarding your teeth, gums, and jaw from potential injuries during contact sports. Wearing one keeps you protected from injuries so you can give your game your absolute best!

Is a boxing mouth guard different from a basketball mouthguard?

While the primary function remains the same, a boxing mouth guard could be thicker, given the direct face blows in boxing. And a basketball mouthguard is designed keeping in mind the nature of the sport. Before you buy a mouthguard, make sure to take advice from a dental expert or your coach!

How often should I replace my mouth guards for sports?

It's advisable to replace them at the start of every new sports season, or sooner if they show signs of wear, are uncomfortable, or don't fit well. Having a worn down, ill-fitting or uncomfortable boxing mouthguard or basketball mouthguard can do more harm than good, hence ensure you change them regularly.

What's the best way to clean my teeth guard for boxing or any other sport?

Clean it with cool, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. You can also use makeO toothsi’s aligner cleaning solution for better results and more safety. And, for maintaining oral hygiene during sports, consider using makeO toothsi oral care products too!