Sports mouthguards are essential pieces of protective gear for athletes participating in contact sports. However, misconceptions about their benefits and limitations abound.
Here, we aim to dispel common myths surrounding sports mouthguards and shed light on the facts to help athletes make informed decisions about their oral safety:
Myth: I can use a mouthguard from a previous sport or season.
Fact: Mouthguards can wear out and lose their protective qualities over time. Additionally, they can accumulate bacteria and become unhygienic. It’s crucial to replace mouthguards regularly, ideally at the beginning of each sports season, to ensure maximum protection and hygiene.
Myth: A mouthguard is not necessary for non-competitive sports or practice sessions.
Fact: Dental injuries can occur at any time during sports activities, whether it’s during a game, practice, or casual play. Many dental injuries happen unexpectedly, so it’s essential to wear a mouthguard consistently whenever engaging in physical activity to reduce the risk of damage to the teeth and mouth.
Myth: Boiling a mouthguard multiple times will improve its fit.
Fact: Boil-and-bite mouthguards are designed to be molded to the shape of the mouth by softening them in hot water and then biting down on them. However, repeatedly boiling the mouthguard can lead to distortion and loss of protective properties. If a boil-and-bite mouthguard does not fit properly after the first attempt, purchasing a new one or opt for a custom-fit mouthguard is best.
Myth: I don’t need a mouthguard because I already have a helmet.
Fact: While helmets offer protection for the head and can prevent skull fractures and brain injuries, they do not protect the teeth and mouth. A mouthguard complements a helmet by protecting the teeth, jaws, and surrounding soft tissues. Both are essential pieces of protective gear and should be used together for optimal safety during sports.
Myth: It’s better to wear a cheap store-bought mouthguard than none at all.
Fact: While any mouthguard is better than none, cheap store-bought options may not provide adequate protection. Ill-fitting mouthguards can be uncomfortable and may not offer the necessary cushioning against impact. Investing in a custom-fit mouthguard from Clear Comfort Night Guards is worth the cost, as it ensures optimal protection, comfort, and durability.
Myth: Mouthguards are only for professional athletes.
Fact: Athletes of all skill levels should wear mouthguards, from beginners to professionals. Injuries can happen to anyone, regardless of their experience on the field. Protecting one’s teeth and oral structures is vital for everyone’s long-term dental health, not just elite athletes.
Myth: Children don’t need mouthguards because they have baby teeth.
Fact: This is a dangerous misconception. Even though children have primary teeth, they are still at risk of dental injuries during sports activities. Damage to baby teeth can also lead to problems with the eruption of permanent teeth. Therefore, children participating in sports should wear mouthguards designed specifically for their age group.
Myth: Mouthguards are only for protecting teeth.
Fact: While protecting teeth is one of the primary functions of a mouthguard, it offers other benefits as well. A mouthguard can act as a shock absorber, reducing the impact of a blow to the jaw, which may help prevent jaw fractures or joint injuries. Moreover, it can also protect the soft tissues of the mouth, such as the lips, cheeks, and tongue, from cuts and lacerations.
Myth: Wearing a mouthguard hinders breathing and speech.
Fact: Some athletes avoid wearing mouthguards because they fear impaired breathing and speech. However, a properly fitted mouthguard should not significantly affect either. Initially, wearing a mouthguard might feel slightly uncomfortable, but with practice, athletes can adapt and comfortably communicate without compromising safety.
Myth: All mouthguards offer the same level of protection.
Fact: There are three primary types of mouthguards: stock mouthguards, boil-and-bite mouthguards, and custom-fit mouthguards. Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and come in limited sizes, providing the least protection and comfort. Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a better fit but may not be as precise as custom-fit mouthguards. Custom-fit mouthguards are professionally made by dental technicians, provide the highest level of protection, and are tailored to fit an individual’s unique dental structure.
Myth: Mouthguards are only necessary for high-impact sports.
Fact: While high-impact sports like football, rugby, and hockey certainly warrant the use of mouthguards, other sports can also pose a risk to dental health. Even seemingly non-contact sports like basketball and soccer involve accidental collisions and falls that can lead to dental injuries. Thus, it’s prudent for athletes participating in any sport to wear a mouthguard for optimal protection.
Sports mouth guard for teeth grinding are invaluable tools for safeguarding an athlete’s dental health and overall well-being. We hope athletes will recognize the importance of wearing properly fitted mouthguards by dispelling these common myths and emphasizing the facts. Remember, the right mouthguard can make all the difference in preventing potentially severe oral injuries during sports activities. Prioritize your oral safety and enjoy your game with confidence!
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About the Author
Terrell N. Large is a passionate sports enthusiast and a dental health advocate. With a background in dentistry and a love for various sports, Terrell understands the crucial role of sports mouthguards in protecting athletes’ oral safety. Through his writing, he aims to dispel common myths surrounding mouthguards and promote awareness about the importance of proper oral protection during sports activities. Terrell’s mission is to empower athletes with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their dental health, ensuring they can enjoy their favorite sports with confidence and peace of mind.