The Benefits of Wearing a Mouthguard for Sports
With spring and summer sports getting underway, it’s a great time to think about protecting your smile. Whether your child plays baseball, softball, soccer, or another activity, wearing a mouthguard is one of the simplest ways to help prevent dental injuries.
At Luce Line Family Dental, we often see sports-related dental injuries that could have been avoided with the right protection. A properly fitted mouthguard can make a big difference in keeping teeth and gums safe during play.
Why Mouthguards Matter
Sports accidents can happen quickly and unexpectedly. A fall, collision, or stray ball can lead to chipped, broken, or even knocked-out teeth. Mouthguards help absorb impact and reduce the risk of injury to the teeth, lips, cheeks, and jaw.
They are especially important for contact and high-impact sports, but even non-contact activities carry some risk.
Who Should Wear a Mouthguard?
Mouthguards are recommended for children, teens, and adults who participate in sports such as:
Football
Basketball
Soccer
Baseball and softball
Hockey
Wrestling
Skateboarding and biking
Even if a sport doesn’t seem high-risk, wearing a mouthguard adds an extra layer of protection.
Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards
There are a few different types of mouthguards available, including store-bought and custom options. While over-the-counter mouthguards can offer some protection, they may not fit as comfortably or securely.
Custom mouthguards, made by your dental team, are designed to fit your teeth properly. This can make them:
More comfortable to wear
Easier to breathe and speak with
More effective at protecting your smile
Making Protection Part of the Routine
Just like wearing a helmet or other protective gear, a mouthguard should be part of every athlete’s routine. Getting into the habit of wearing one during practices and games helps reduce the risk of injury over time.
If your child plays sports regularly, now is a great time to make sure they’re properly protected as the season gets busier.
We’re Here to Help Protect Your Smile
At Luce Line Family Dental, we’re happy to help patients find the right mouthguard for their needs. Whether you have questions about sports safety or are interested in a custom mouthguard, our team is here to help.
If you’d like more information or want to schedule a visit, contact our office or request an appointment online—we’re here to support healthy, active smiles all season long.