Why Mouthguards Are Necessary in Sports Competition

There are a few pieces of protective equipment that are absolutely vital when participating in sports and competitive activities, and a mouthguard is often high up on this list. There are several reasons why mouthguards are necessary in sports across many kinds of competition, and understanding these is helpful for participants and their caregivers (if they're children). 

At Damage Control Mouthguards, we're here to offer a huge range of mouthguards for a variety of sports and activities, includingfootball mouthguards, basketball mouthguards and various other custom mouthguard options. Here are some of the specific reasons why mouthguards are necessary in sports and competition. 

Preventing Major Injury

There are several kinds of injuries that can be prevented by wearing a mouthguard. When it comes to contact sports like football or hockey, there is always the risk of colliding with other players, the ground or equipment. 

A well-fitted mouthguard can provide protection for the teeth, jaw and gums in these situations and help prevent serious injuries such as broken teeth, jaw fractures or cuts inside the mouth. In addition, a great mouthguard can help absorb a blow to the jaw, helping prevent things like fractures, hemorrhages and other neck injuries. 

Teeth Protection

In addition to preventing major injuries, mouthguards also provide protection for the teeth. A properly fitted mouthguard can help prevent chips, cracks and even tooth loss during contact sports or activities. This is particularly important if you have braces or other dental work that could be easily damaged during sports without proper protection.

Dental Restorations

Down similar lines, if you have any dental restorations like crowns or bridges, a mouthguard can help protect them from damage during sports. A blow to the face or jaw could easily cause these restorations to break or fall out, resulting in additional pain and expenses. 

Concussions

Recent studies have shown that wearing a mouthguard during sports can actually help reduce the risk of concussions. As mentioned earlier, a well-fitted mouthguard can absorb blows to the jaw and reduce impact on the head, potentially lowering the chances of a concussion. 

It's important to note, however, that a mouthguard is not intended to fully prevent concussions and it's still important to follow proper safety protocols during sports. 

Protecting Braces

For those who have braces or other orthodontic appliances, wearing a mouthguard is crucial for protecting both the teeth and the appliance. A blow to the face could cause damage to the braces or wires, resulting in additional visits to the orthodontist and prolonging treatment time. A mouthguard can also help prevent cuts or irritation from the brackets against the cheeks or lips. 

Saving Money

Finally, investing in a high-quality mouthguard can actually save you money in the long run. While they may seem like an unnecessary expense, the cost of repairing or replacing damaged teeth, restorations or braces far outweighs the cost of a mouthguard. In addition, many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of a mouthguard if it is deemed medically necessary for certain sports. 

Overall, mouthguards are essential for protecting both your oral health and physical well-being during sports and competitive activities. At Damage Control Mouthguards, we offer customizable options to ensure the best fit and maximum protection for our customers. Don't risk serious injury; invest in a mouthguard today and continue enjoying your favorite sports with peace of mind.