My Tips for Protecting Teeth From Damage During Sports
Brief Overview
• I’ve seen how a single blow to the mouth during sports can lead to cracked or knocked-out teeth.
• Wearing a mouthguard is one of the simplest ways to avoid such injuries and save yourself from pain and costly repairs.
• Regular checkups and proper brushing and flossing are crucial for keeping your teeth strong, especially when you’re an active athlete.
Why I Emphasize Custom-Fitted Mouthguards for Athletes
I have worked with countless patients who initially relied on generic, over-the-counter mouthguards. Many of them complained about discomfort, difficulty speaking, and breathing challenges, which often led to inconsistent use. By recommending and providing custom-fitted mouthguards, I’ve seen firsthand how athletes become more diligent in protecting their teeth, largely because these mouthguards fit better and feel more comfortable.
Custom-fitted mouthguards are specifically molded to the contours of your teeth. This personalized touch ensures better retention and cushioning, which helps distribute impact forces evenly across the teeth and jaw. As a result, the chance of tooth fractures and soft tissue injuries drops significantly, allowing athletes to focus on their performance with greater confidence.
How I Safeguard Teeth With Proper Impact Protection
When patients come in with sports-related injuries, one of my first steps is to assess if an over-the-counter guard played any role in failing to protect their teeth. Proper impact protection starts with a well-made mouthguard—one that covers not just the teeth but also cushions the gums and jaw. I collaborate with professional dental labs to fabricate mouthguards that meet these needs and accommodate each patient’s bite.
Additionally, I emphasize the importance of replacing your mouthguard regularly. Dental arches can change over time, and material wear-and-tear is inevitable if you’re active. By keeping your guard in top-notch condition, you ensure a superior level of protection that minimizes your risk of injury.
My Personal Routine for Maintaining a Sports-Ready Smile
Even though I’m not a professional athlete, I maintain a consistent preventive care routine to keep my teeth game-ready. This includes using a soft-bristled toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and daily flossing to remove plaque and food debris. Routine dental checkups allow me to catch potential issues early, so they don’t turn into bigger problems that could be aggravated during sports.
I also pay close attention to my diet by limiting sugary snacks and beverages, as they can weaken enamel and make teeth more susceptible to damage. Staying hydrated, chewing sugar-free gum between practices, and rinsing my mouth with water after meals are some of the ways I reduce acid buildup and keep my smile healthy year-round.
FAQ Section
Why should I invest in a custom-fitted mouthguard if I already have a store-bought one?
A custom-fitted mouthguard offers better comfort, improved protection, and a snug fit that you rarely get from store-bought options.
How often do I need to replace my mouthguard?
It’s wise to replace your mouthguard at least once per year or whenever significant wear occurs so it continues to fit properly.
Can mouthguards protect my braces during sports?
Absolutely. Custom mouthguards are especially beneficial if you have braces because they can be tailored to accommodate brackets and wires.
Is there a difference between night guards and sports mouthguards?
Yes. Night guards focus on preventing grinding damage, while sports mouthguards are thicker and designed to cushion against impact.
Do I need a mouthguard for sports that don’t involve contact, like cycling?
Any activity with a risk of falling or collisions can benefit from a mouthguard. Even non-contact sports pose some level of risk.
Will mouthguards make it hard for me to breathe or speak on the field?
A well-fitted mouthguard should not impede your breathing or speech significantly, enabling you to perform at your best.
How do I keep my mouthguard clean?
Rinse it after each use, and occasionally clean it with mild soap and water or a specialized mouthguard cleaner to keep bacteria at bay.
What if my child says the mouthguard is uncomfortable?
Children often adapt quickly to well-fitted mouthguards. If it’s uncomfortable, it may need an adjustment or replacement for better fit.
More Information
If you’d like to learn more about keeping your teeth safe during sports, the Ontario Dental Association (https://weence.com/ and the Canadian Dental Association (https://weence.com/ offer excellent resources. You can also visit the Ontario Ministry of Health’s page at https://weence.com/ to stay informed about health guidelines.
I encourage you to contact me at 905-529-2164 for more information or to schedule an appointment at Excel Dental. I’m always here to help you protect your smile while you stay active.
