If you or your child participates in sports, a mouth guard is one of the most important pieces of safety gear you can wear. Sports like football and hockey may come to mind first, but did you know that basketball and baseball account for nearly half of all sports-related dental injuries?

Wearing a mouth guard can protect your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues from damage–especially during contact sports or physical activities with risk of falls or collisions.

Why Wear a Mouth Guard?

Mouth guards, also called mouth protectors, are designed to:

• Cushion blows to the face

• Prevent broken or knocked-out teeth

• Reduce the risk of lip, tongue, and cheek injuries

• Minimize damage to braces or fixed dental appliances

• Protect against jaw fractures and concussions by reducing impact force

They're especially important if you wear braces, fixed bridges, or have a history of dental trauma.

Who Should Wear a Mouth Guard?

You should wear a mouth guard if you participate in sports such as:

• Basketball

• Baseball/Softball

• Football

• Hockey

• Soccer

• Gymnastics

• Wrestling

• Volleyball

• Skateboarding or biking

If you wear braces or retainers, or have permanent dental work (like crowns or bridges), mouth guards provide an added layer of protection from soft tissue damage and impact-related complications.

Types of Mouth Guards

There are three main types of mouth guards. Each offers a different balance of cost, comfort, and protection.

1. Stock Mouth Guards

• Pre-formed and ready to wear

• Least expensive option

• Often bulky and may interfere with breathing or speaking

• Minimal customization and protection

2. Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards

• Available at sporting goods stores

• Softened in hot water and molded to your teeth

• Provide a better fit than stock guards

• Inexpensive but may still be uncomfortable if not fitted properly

3. Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards

• Made by your dentist for a precise, comfortable fit

• Best protection and durability

• Ideal for athletes with braces or dental appliances

• More expensive, but highly recommended for serious or frequent athletes

Special Considerations for Braces and Appliances

If you wear braces, retainers, or other fixed appliances, it’s essential to wear a properly fitted mouth guard:

• Protects brackets, wires, and your cheeks/lips from injury

• May require coverage for both upper and lower teeth

• Removable appliances like retainers should not be worn during contact sports

Ask your dentist or orthodontist which type of mouth guard is best based on your treatment and activity level.

Want the best protection for your smile during sports? Book an appointment today to get a custom-fitted mouth guard made just for you.