Why is it important to wear a mouthguard for sports?

The National Youth Sports Foundation for Safety reports that an athlete is 60 times more likely have damage to their teeth if they are not wearing a mouthguard. Additionally, according to the American Dental Association, 10-20% of all sports related injuries are to the face and teeth.

Many injuries to the face and teeth can be prevented by the use of a properly fitting (and worn!) mouthguard. A mouthguard can protect against:

• Tooth fracture
• Tooth displacement or loss
• Jaw fractures
• Injury of soft tissues, such as the lips and cheeks
• Possible reduction of concussion risk (research is not conclusive)

There are three kinds of mouthguards that can be used:

1. Custom – this is made by an orthodontist or dentist
2. Stock – purchased at a retail store, cannot be customized
3. Boil and bite – also purchased at a retail store, can mold these a little bit to the mouth