Sports Mouthguards

Why a Mouthguard Is a Smart Move for Athletes

Sports-related impacts to the face and mouth are more common than many people realize. From collisions on the field to accidental strikes from balls or equipment, a single blow can cause chipped or knocked-out teeth, soft-tissue lacerations, or jaw injuries that require urgent care. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard reduces the force transmitted to teeth and surrounding tissues, lowering the chance of both immediate trauma and longer-term dental complications.

Beyond protecting individual teeth, mouthguards help cushion the jaw and can reduce the likelihood of concussions by absorbing some of the shock from a blow to the head or face. They also protect soft tissues — lips, cheeks, and tongue — from being trapped against teeth during sudden impacts. For athletes at every level, this simple piece of equipment plays an outsized role in preserving oral health and preventing avoidable, painful injuries.

Deciding to use a mouthguard is a proactive choice that keeps training and competition focused on performance rather than recovery. Coaches, parents, and athletes who prioritize mouthguard use are investing in safety measures that extend playing careers and reduce disruptions from dental emergencies. In many organized sports, mouthguards are now a standard expectation precisely because they make a measurable difference in outcomes after impact.

Comparing the Main Types of Sports Mouthguards

There are three common categories of mouthguards available: stock (pre-formed), boil-and-bite, and dentist-made custom appliances. Stock mouthguards come ready to wear but often fit poorly and can interfere with breathing and speaking. Boil-and-bite guards can be improved at home by softening them in hot water and shaping them around the teeth, offering a better fit than most stock options but still falling short of a tailor-made solution.

Custom mouthguards are crafted from impressions taken by a dental professional and then fabricated in a dental laboratory. These devices provide the most precise fit, superior comfort, and consistent thickness where protection is needed most. Because they conform closely to an individual’s bite and oral anatomy, custom guards minimize movement during play and are less likely to cause distraction or discomfort.

Material quality and construction also vary across types. Stock and boil-and-bite guards are typically thinner and made from simpler polymers, while custom guards can be layered with durable materials designed to absorb and disperse impact energy. When evaluating options, it’s helpful to balance convenience and cost with the level of protection and comfort you expect to need during your sport.

Who Should Wear a Mouthguard and When to Use One

Anyone participating in contact or collision sports should consider a mouthguard as part of standard protective gear. This includes athletes in football, hockey, lacrosse, rugby, and martial arts, as well as players in sports where falls or fast-moving projectiles are common — for example, skateboarding, mountain biking, and baseball. Even sports that appear low-contact can produce surprising impacts, so assessing the risks for each individual activity is important.

Children and adolescents are especially good candidates for mouthguards because they are still growing and often participate in high-energy play. Additionally, athletes with braces, bridges, or other dental restorations require special consideration: orthodontic appliances can trap and tear soft tissues during an impact, and some restorations may be vulnerable to force. A tailored mouthguard can address these concerns by providing both protection and accommodation for dental work.

Mouthguards are also useful during practices and informal play, not just formal competitions. Many injuries occur during drills and scrimmages, so consistent use helps maintain protection across all contact hours. Coaches and teams that encourage daily mouthguard habits often see fewer dental incidents and safer training environments as a result.

What to Expect from a Custom-Fit Mouthguard

A custom mouthguard begins with an exam and an impression or digital scan of the teeth. This allows the laboratory to fabricate an appliance that follows the contours of the athlete’s bite precisely. The result is a thin, secure, and comfortable guard that stays in position without the need for constant adjustment. Because the fit is exact, breathing and speech are less impeded compared with over-the-counter options.

The fabrication process also permits customization for specific needs. For athletes with braces or particular bite patterns, the guard can be designed to protect both upper and lower dental arches or include additional padding over sensitive areas. Material choices can enhance shock absorption and durability, and color or team-logo options can be incorporated for a personalized look while preserving function.

After delivery, the dental team will evaluate fit and make any minor adjustments to ensure optimal comfort and protection. Follow-up appointments are useful to check how the appliance performs during play and to make refinements if necessary. With routine care, a custom mouthguard often outlasts store-bought alternatives and provides more reliable protection over time.

Cleaning, Storage, and Replacement Guidelines

Proper care extends the life and effectiveness of a mouthguard. Rinse it with cool water after each use and, at least weekly, clean it with a toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Avoid hot water or harsh chemicals, which can warp the material. Allow the guard to air-dry completely before storing it in a ventilated case to discourage bacterial growth and odors.

Storage is equally important: keep the mouthguard in a dedicated, ventilated container and away from direct sunlight or high heat sources, such as a car dashboard. Do not leave it near sharp objects or in places where pets or children can access it — that can lead to damage or contamination. Regular inspections for cracks, thinning, or changes in fit will help you know when replacement is needed.

While lifespan varies depending on frequency of use and chewing habits, any sign of wear, persistent odor, or discomfort warrants evaluation. Young athletes may need new guards more often due to growth and orthodontic changes, so regular check-ins with your dental provider can ensure the device continues to offer proper protection. Proper maintenance practices help preserve the guard’s protective qualities and support consistent, safe use.

Working with the Dental Team in Powell, TN

Choosing the right mouthguard often benefits from professional input, especially when dental restorations or orthodontic appliances are present. A dental exam will identify specific risk factors and help determine whether a custom appliance is the best option. The process is collaborative: your dental team can explain material choices, fit considerations, and care instructions tailored to your sport and oral health needs.

For families and athletes in Powell, TN, the practice can coordinate fitting appointments, take impressions or scans, and oversee adjustments so the mouthguard performs reliably during play. Professional guidance ensures that the appliance balances protection with comfort, so athletes can focus on training and competition rather than equipment issues.

If you’d like more information about mouthguard options or to schedule a consultation, please contact us. Our team is available to answer questions and help you select the protective solution that best supports athletic performance and long-term oral health.