A custom sports guard protects your teeth and jaw by acting like a soft cushion during physical activity. When you get hit in the face, the guard spreads the force of the bump across your whole mouth instead of letting it hit just one tooth. This simple piece of equipment is very important for anyone visiting a dentist in Coquitlam who wants to avoid painful accidents and expensive repairs on the sports field or at the gym.
Why wearing protection is important.
Many people think mouth guards are only for rough sports like football or hockey. But the truth is that injuries can happen in any activity where you might fall or bump into another person. Whether you are riding your bike, playing soccer, or skateboarding, your teeth are at risk. If you are looking for a sports mouth guard near you, it is important to know that a professional one works much better than a cheap one from a store. A guard that is made just for you will stay in place during a fall. This ensures that your smile is covered and safe exactly when you need it most.
How it saves your jaw and mouth
A sports guard for teeth does more than just protect the white parts of your smile. It also helps protect your jawbone and your joints. When your top and bottom teeth have a soft layer between them, they cannot slam together with full force. This padding helps prevent your jaw from breaking. It can even help protect your brain by soaking up some of the vibration from a hit to the chin. Without this cushion, the energy from a hit goes straight into your head and the sensitive spots near your ears.
Different types of mouth guards
| Type of Guard | Protection Level | How it Feels |
| Store-Bought (One size) | Low | Bulky and hard to breathe |
| Boil-and-Bite | Medium | Loose and can fall out |
| Custom-Made | High | Thin, strong, and easy to talk |
Ways to prevent sports teeth injuries
The best way to prevent sports teeth injuries is to make the guard a part of your uniform every single time you play. If you only wear it during big games but skip it during practice, you are still in danger. Most injuries actually happen when players are just practicing or playing for fun. Another tip is to keep your guard very clean. Tiny germs can grow on the plastic if it is left in a dirty gym bag. Rinse it with cool water every time you use it and keep it in a sturdy case with air holes. This keeps the material strong and your mouth healthy.
When should you get a new guard?
A guard will not last forever, especially for kids and teens whose mouths are still growing and changing. You should look at the plastic often to see if it is getting thin or has jagged edges. If it starts to feel loose or uncomfortable, it is time to get a new one. Your custom guard can last a long time if you take care of it. However, after getting new dental work, such as a crown or bridge, it may be necessary to obtain a new guard to accommodate the shape of your teeth.
Staying Safe While Having Fun
Protecting your smile should not be a chore. With the right gear, you can focus on your game and enjoy your favorite sports without worrying about a trip to the emergency room. A small step for safety today can save you from a lot of pain and dental problems in the future. At Lincoln Dental, we want to help you stay active while keeping your smile safe. Our team is very good at making comfortable, high-quality guards that fit your mouth perfectly. We believe that everyone should be able to play hard and stay healthy at the same time. If you have questions about how to protect your teeth or your child’s teeth, we are here to give you the friendly help and care you need to stay in the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear a mouth guard with braces?
Yes, it is very important to wear one if you have braces. The guard stops the metal parts of the braces from cutting your lips if you get hit. A professional can make a special guard that fits over your braces safely.
Is it hard to breathe while wearing one?
If the guard is made specially to fit your teeth, it should be very easy to breathe and talk. The guards you buy at the store are usually too thick, which is why they make breathing feel hard for some people.
How do I clean my mouth guard?
You should wash it with cool water and use a soft toothbrush with a little bit of mild soap. Never use hot water, because it can melt the plastic and change the shape so that it won’t fit your teeth anymore.
Should I wear a guard for sports that aren’t rough?
Absolutely, gymnastics, volleyball, and even weightlifting can definitely injure your mouth. If you wear a guard, you won’t accidentally bite through your tongue or chip your tooth if you fall or move.