Fall sports season is in full swing across Michiana, from football and soccer to hockey and volleyball. Helmets and pads get plenty of attention, but one of the most important pieces of protective gear is also one of the smallest: the mouthguard. A properly fitted mouthguard can prevent painful and costly dental injuries.

Why mouthguards matter

A single hit from a ball, stick, elbow, or fall can chip, crack, or knock out a tooth. Dental injuries are among the most common sports injuries, and many of them happen in sports people do not think of as “contact” sports, like basketball, baseball, skateboarding, and gymnastics. A mouthguard cushions the blow, spreads out the force, and helps protect the lips, cheeks, and tongue from being cut by the teeth.

Types of mouthguards

Stock mouthguards

These come pre-formed and ready to wear. They are inexpensive, but they tend to fit loosely, can make breathing and talking harder, and offer the least protection.

Boil-and-bite mouthguards

Sold at most sporting goods stores, these are softened in hot water and then shaped by biting down. They fit better than stock guards and are a reasonable budget option, though they can be bulky and wear out quickly.

Custom-fitted mouthguards

Made from an impression of your teeth, a custom guard offers the best fit, comfort, and protection. Because it stays in place without clenching, athletes are more likely to actually wear it, which is what counts.

Tips for kids and teens

• Growing mouths change quickly, so check the fit each season and replace guards that no longer fit snugly.
• Athletes with braces need a guard designed to fit over brackets. Ask us which option is right.
• Rinse the guard before and after each use, store it in a vented case, and keep it out of hot cars.
• Replace any guard that is torn, has holes, or has been chewed flat.

Choosing the right mouthguard

The best mouthguard is the one your athlete will actually wear every practice and game. If an injury does happen, our guide to handling dental emergencies explains what to do next. You can also find sports safety tips from the American Dental Association at MouthHealthy.org.

If a dental injury happens

If a permanent tooth is knocked out, pick it up by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it if dirty, and try to place it back in the socket or keep it in milk. Then call a dentist right away, because time matters.

Want a mouthguard made for your athlete? Michiana Family Dental can create a comfortable, custom-fitted guard in just a couple of visits, so your family can focus on the game.