Playing sports is a great way to stay active, but it also comes with risks, especially for your teeth. A sudden impact can lead to chipped, broken, or even knocked-out teeth, which can be painful and costly to fix. That’s why a custom sports mouthguard is one of the most important pieces of protective gear an athlete can wear. At Viera Dental Design Studio in Melbourne, FL, we create high-quality mouthguards designed to keep your smile safe. Schedule a consultation today!
Why Sports Mouthguards Matter
Most athletes wouldn’t step onto the field without protective gear, yet many forget about their teeth. A well-fitted mouthguard helps absorb impact, reducing the risk of serious dental injuries during both contact and non-contact sports. It’s a simple way to protect your smile so you can stay focused on the game.
- Prevent dental injuries: Shields your teeth from chips, cracks, and tooth loss
- Shield soft tissues: Reduces the chance of cuts to your lips, cheeks, and tongue
- Reduce concussion risk: Helps absorb shock from sudden impacts to the jaw
- Enhance confidence: Lets you play harder without worrying about dental injuries
Custom Vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards
Not all mouthguards are created equal, and choosing the right one makes a big difference. Store-bought mouthguards may seem convenient, but they often don’t fit properly, making them uncomfortable and less effective. A custom mouthguard is designed to fit perfectly, offering the highest level of comfort and protection.
- Individually crafted: Made to match your teeth for a secure and comfortable fit
- More durable: Built from high-quality materials that last longer than generic options
- Better breathability: Designed to allow easy breathing and clear communication
- Superior protection: Absorbs impact more effectively to reduce the risk of injury
Ideal For Athletes Of All Ages
Mouthguards aren’t just for football or hockey players, they’re useful for anyone who plays sports. Even non-contact activities like basketball or skateboarding come with risks, making protection a smart choice for athletes of all ages. If you’re active and want to protect your smile, a custom mouthguard is a great investment.
- Prevents unexpected injuries: Protects against accidental hits, falls, and collisions
- Fits comfortably with braces: Can be designed to fit over orthodontic appliances
- Encourages better breathing: Helps keep airways open during high-intensity activities
- Minimizes tooth grinding: Provides a cushion for athletes who clench their teeth
Caring For Your Mouthguard
Taking care of your mouthguard ensures it stays clean and effective. Regular maintenance helps prevent bacteria buildup while keeping it in good condition for longer use. A little care goes a long way in making sure your mouthguard continues to protect your smile.
- Rinse after each use: Wash with cold water to remove debris and bacteria
- Clean regularly: Use mild soap and a soft toothbrush for deeper cleaning
- Store properly: Keep in a ventilated case to maintain its shape and durability
- Replace as needed: Get a new one if it becomes worn, damaged, or no longer fits
Frequently Asked Questions
Many athletes have questions about sports mouthguards, especially if they’ve never worn one before. A well-fitted mouthguard can make a big difference in both comfort and protection, so it’s important to know what to expect. Here are some common questions and answers to help you decide if a custom mouthguard is right for you.
No. Even non-contact sports like basketball, soccer, and volleyball can involve accidental collisions that put your teeth at risk.
No. Store-bought mouthguards provide minimal protection, while custom mouthguards are designed for a secure fit and better durability.
Yes. A custom mouthguard can be designed to fit over braces, protecting both your teeth and orthodontic appliances.
Mouthguards should be replaced if they become worn out or if your teeth have shifted due to braces or other dental changes.
Store-bought mouthguards may not fit properly, making them uncomfortable and less effective at preventing injuries.
Rinse it with cold water after each use and clean it with mild soap and a soft toothbrush as needed.
Yes. However, the design will differ, and it’s best to have a custom mouthguard made for proper fit and protection.
Not significantly. A custom-fit mouthguard allows for clear speech and easy breathing while playing sports.
If it has cracks, tears, or no longer fits properly, it’s time to replace it to ensure full protection.
No. Athletes of all ages can benefit from wearing a mouthguard, whether they play in youth leagues or adult recreational sports.