Athletes, regardless of the intensity level, should consider protecting their teeth the next time they step foot on the playing field. While oral health and protection may not be at the top of every athlete’s priority list, it is something that should be! Having the right oral protection while participating in sports can reduce your risk of injury in the case that you fall or come into contact with another athlete while performing. Even seemingly non-competitive sports or intramurals can cause mouth-related injuries and require an unexpected visit to our dentist near Skokie.
What Happens If I Don’t Wear a Mouthguard?
Did you know that in kids, sports injuries account for almost 40 percent of dental trauma? With a statistic like this, skipping the mouthguard isn’t worth it. Not wearing a mouthguard can cause a tooth fracture, a tooth to become completely knocked out, damage to the jaw and the TMJ joint, or even a concussion. Mouthguards are especially important if your child is wearing braces, as it can reduce the risk of injury and keep the teeth protected.
How Mouthguards Work
Understanding how mouthguards work can help you feel more confident in your decision to use one. Think of a mouthguard like an airbag for your mouth; they are designed to absorb the shock of impact and diffuse the pressure associated with the trauma. Mouthguards absorb and dissipate the impact so your teeth stay protected.
Why a Dentist-Fitted Mouthguard?
There are multiple types of mouthguards on the market, but we recommend visiting our dentist near Skokie so you end up with a mouthguard specifically designed for your mouth. One study revealed that custom-fitted mouthguards can reduce your risk of developing a concussion by as much as 50 percent. This type of mouthguard also makes it easier for the athlete to breathe and speak, ultimately improving performance.
The most important thing is that athletes consistently wear mouthguards to keep their mouths protected.
