5 Benefits Of Wearing Mouthguard For Contact Sports

Participating in contact sports can be exhilarating and physically demanding on athletes. Whether you are into football, basketball, hockey, or any other sport that involves intense physical contact, safeguarding your well-being should be a top priority. One essential piece of protective gear that often gets overlooked is the athletic mouthguard. In this article, we will explore five significant benefits of wearing a mouthguard during contact sports, emphasizing its crucial role in keeping athletes safe.

Dental Protection

One of the primary reasons for wearing a mouthguard during contact sports is to protect your teeth. Impact injuries are prevalent in sports; a blow to the mouth can lead to broken or chipped teeth. Such injuries can be painful and often require expensive dental procedures to repair the damage. A mouthguard acts as a cushion, absorbing the impact and minimizing the risk of dental injuries. It provides a barrier that shields your teeth and reduces the potential for fractures, chips, or avulsions (teeth being knocked out).

Preventing Concussions

While most people associate mouthguards with dental protection, they also significantly reduce the risk of concussions. Concussions can occur when a powerful blow to the head causes the brain to move forcefully within the skull. Custom mouthguards are designed to fit the athlete’s teeth and jaws precisely. When an impact occurs, such as a blow to the head, the mouthguard can absorb and distribute some of the shock, reducing the force transmitted to the skull. While the primary purpose of the mouthguard is to protect the teeth and prevent injuries to the mouth, this shock-absorbing effect can help mitigate the impact on the brain to some extent.

Jaw Support and Stability

Mouthguards provide stability to the jaw, particularly during sports with high physical contact. A sudden and strong impact on the jaw can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues or even jaw fractures. A well-fitted mouthguard helps keep the jaw secure, reducing the risk of dislocation or fractures. This added stability protects the jaw and enhances an athlete’s overall balance and coordination during play.

A mouthguard can reduce the stress placed on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and jaw muscles. This can prevent muscle fatigue and tension, leading to a reduction in headaches, neck pain, and overall discomfort. An athlete who is free from pain and discomfort can concentrate better on their game.

Reduced Risk of Soft Tissue Injuries

Mouthguards protect the teeth and safeguard the lips, cheeks, and tongue from injuries during contact sports. In the heat of the game, players may accidentally bite down on their lips or tongue during a collision. A mouthguard acts as a barrier, minimizing the likelihood of such injuries. Additionally, it can help prevent soft tissue lacerations that might otherwise result from sharp tooth edges cutting into the tongue or cheeks upon impact.

Improved Athletic Confidence

Beyond the physical benefits, mouthguards offer psychological advantages to athletes. Knowing you have the necessary protection can boost your confidence and focus on the game. This confidence allows athletes to perform at their best without the distraction of worrying about potential injuries. It contributes to a more enjoyable and fulfilling sports experience.

Improved Breathing

Properly designed custom mouthguards can even enhance airflow and oxygen intake. This can be particularly beneficial in sports that require endurance and aerobic capacity, such as distance running or cycling.

Choosing the Right Mouthguard

To enjoy the benefits listed above, it is essential to choose the right mouthguard. There are various types available:

• Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-made and come in limited sizes. They are the least expensive option but may need to provide a better fit or protection.
• Boil and Bite Mouthguards: These can be customized to some extent by boiling them and then biting into the softened material to create a mold of your teeth. They offer better fit and protection compared to stock mouthguards.
• Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: The most effective and comfortable option is custom-fitted mouthguards. Dr. Marielaina Perrone can create these mouthguards by taking an impression of your teeth. Custom mouthguards provide the best fit, comfort, and protection, making them a preferred choice for serious athletes.

When choosing a mouthguard, opt for one that is comfortable and doesn’t restrict your ability to speak and breathe. An uncomfortable mouthguard may discourage athletes from wearing it consistently, risking their safety.

In conclusion, wearing a mouthguard for contact sports is not just a recommendation; it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a professional athlete or playing sports for fun, the benefits of mouthguards in terms of dental protection, concussion prevention, jaw stability, reduced soft tissue injuries, and enhanced confidence cannot be overstated. This essential step in safeguarding your oral and overall well-being should be a no-brainer for any sports enthusiast. Remember that the best mouthguard fits comfortably, so don’t hesitate to consult Dr. Perrone to ensure you get the right protection for your specific needs. Your safety on the field is paramount, and a mouthguard is a valuable tool in achieving that goal.

About Marielaina Perrone, DDS

Dr. Marielaina Perrone is a highly respected and experienced dentist in Henderson, Nevada, with over two decades of expertise in providing quality dental care to her patients. She graduated from Stony Brook University School Of Dental Medicine and has completed advanced training in cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, and orthodontics.

Dr. Perrone is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in dentistry and continuing education to provide the best possible care for her patients.

Dr. Perrone takes a patient-centered approach and believes in personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs and preferences. Her gentle and compassionate demeanor creates a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for patients during their dental appointments.

Aside from dentistry, Dr. Perrone enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and cooking. She also volunteers her time and expertise to various charitable organizations in her community.