Whether you wear braces or not, protecting your smile while playing sports is essential. Mouthguards help protect your teeth and gums from injury. If you participate in basketball, boxing, hockey, football, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, racquetball, rugby, track and field, skateboarding, skiing and snowboarding, skydiving, soccer, surfing, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting, and/or wrestling it is recommended by the American Dental Association that you wear a mouthguard.

Types of mouthguards

There are three basic types of mouthguards: the pre-made mouthguard, the "boil-and-bite" fitted mouthguard, and a custom-made mouthguard, which you can have made at Dr. Johnson's office. When you chose a mouthguard, be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, comfortable and well fitted for your mouth, easy to keep clean, and does not prevent you from breathing properly.

Pre-made mouthguards and "boil-and-bite" mouthguards can be purchased at most sporting good stores. Custom-made mouthguards are specially designed by Dr. Johnson to provide optimal protection against mouth injuries, fit better and more comfortably, and interfere less with speech or breathing. If you wear braces or a retainer, it is imperative for you to wear a mouthguard. Your dentist or orthodontist can show you how to wear a mouthguard properly and how to choose the right mouthguard to protect your smile.

Taking care of your mouthguard

Similar to a retainer, braces, or any other special dental appliance, it is important to take care of your mouthguard. You should clean your mouthguard regularly, store it properly in a cool, dry place, and replace when worn and no longer efective. Here are a few simple ways to maintain your mouthguard:

• Gently scrub your mouthguard after each use with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Store your mouthguard in a protective case.
• Do not leave your mouthguard in the sun or in hot water, it may melt or become deformed.
• Replace your mouthguard at the beginning of every sports season or if you notice it has become worn and no longer fits properly.
• Do not wear a retainer with your mouthguard. If you wear braces, your dentist will help design a mouthguard to protect your teeth and your braces.
• Do not chew or cut pieces off of your mouthguard.
• Bring your mouthguard to each checkup and so Dr. Johnson can check to make sure it's still in good shape!

Sports related injuries to the mouth and jaw are some of the most common injuries athletes receive. Our goal is to help minimize your chances of a sports related injury to your smile. Be sure to ask Dr. Johnson about mouthguards at your next checkup - GO TEAM!