Participating in sports is a great way to stay active and healthy, but it can also put your teeth at risk. At Bullitt Dental, PLLC, we understand the importance of safeguarding your smile while you're on the field or court. That's why we want to share some tips on how to protect your teeth during sports.
Every year, thousands of people suffer dental injuries while playing sports. In fact, the American Dental Association estimates that up to 20% of all sports-related injuries are maxillofacial injuries. However, wearing a mouth guard can significantly reduce your risk of dental injury and damage.
A well-fitted mouth guard acts as a barrier between your teeth and the impact of a blow to the face. This not only reduces the likelihood of broken teeth but also minimizes the risk of injuries to the lips, tongue, face, and jaw. Some studies even suggest that wearing a mouth guard may lessen the force of the impact transmitted to the brain.
There are several types of mouth guards available today, each offering different levels of protection. Stock mouthguards, which come pre-formed and ready to wear, provide a basic level of defense but often lack a snug fit. Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a semi-custom fit by softening in hot water and then molding to the athlete's mouth. For the highest level of protection, consider investing in a custom mouthguard from our office.
Our custom mouthguards are individually crafted based on the unique specifics of your smile. They offer a precise fit while providing optimal protection and shock absorption, allowing for easy breathing and speaking. Plus, they're comfortable to wear, so you won't even notice it's there until you need it most.
While mouth guards are essential for contact sports like football, rugby, hockey, and boxing, they can also provide protection in non-contact sports where there's a high risk of falling or getting hit with an object. The American Dental Association recommends skateboarders, skiers, gymnasts, shot-putters, skydivers, surfers, and weightlifters also wear mouthguards.
At the office of Bullitt Dental, PLLC, we value your trust and investment in protecting your smile. For more information on sports mouthguards and how we can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile, call us today.