Are Mouthguards Really Necessary?
The Importance of Mouthguards: Protecting Your Smile in Sports
Playing sports is a fantastic way to stay fit, build teamwork, and have fun. However, it's also an activity that comes with risks, especially to your dental health. Teeth accidents in sports are more common than many realize, but fortunately, there's a simple solution to significantly reduce this risk: wearing a mouthguard.
The Prevalence of Dental Injuries in Sports
Sports-related dental injuries are all too common. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer harm to their teeth if they're not wearing a mouthguard. These injuries can range from minor chips and cracks to more severe issues like fractured teeth, tooth loss, and even injuries to the jaw. Contact sports such as football, hockey, and boxing have a high incidence of dental injuries, but even non-contact sports like basketball, soccer, and gymnastics can pose risks.
Types of Mouthguards
There are several types of mouthguards available, each offering varying levels of protection and comfort:
Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-formed and ready to wear. They are the least expensive option but often do not fit well and can be bulky, making it difficult to talk and breathe.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Made from a thermoplastic material, these are softened in boiling water and then molded around the teeth using finger and tongue pressure. They offer a better fit than stock mouthguards and are relatively affordable.
Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: Made by Dr. Diaz, these provide the best fit and protection. An impression of your teeth is taken to create a mouthguard that fits your mouth perfectly. While they are more expensive, the superior comfort and protection they offer are well worth the investment.
Benefits of Wearing a Mouthguard
Protection Against Dental Injuries: Mouthguards act as a cushion, distributing the force of a blow across all of your teeth, reducing the likelihood of a dental injury.
Prevention of Jaw Injuries: They help absorb the impact, which can prevent jaw fractures and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth.
Reduced Risk of Concussions: By minimizing the force transmitted to the brain, mouthguards can also help reduce the risk of concussions, a common concern in contact sports.
Long-Term Savings: The cost of treating a dental injury can be significantly higher than investing in a good quality mouthguard. Custom-fitted mouthguards, while initially more expensive, can save you money in the long run by preventing costly dental repairs.
Encouraging Mouthguard Use
Despite the clear benefits, many athletes, especially younger ones, are reluctant to wear mouthguards. Education is key to changing this mindset. Coaches, parents, and sports organizations can play a crucial role in promoting mouthguard use by:
Mandating their use during practices and games.
Educating athletes about the risks of not wearing a mouthguard.
Providing information on the different types of mouthguards and their benefits.
Wearing a mouthguard should be as essential as putting on a helmet or shin guards. It's a small step that can prevent significant dental injuries and protect your smile. At Northview Family Dental, we offer custom-fitted mouthguards designed to provide maximum comfort and protection. Schedule an appointment with us today to ensure you're fully protected during your sporting activities.
Stay safe, play hard, and protect your smile!
