Sports that Require Mouthguards: An Overview
When it comes to protecting our teeth during sports activities, mouthguards are an essential piece of equipment. According to the American Academy of Dentistry, there are several sports that require the use of mouthguards to prevent dental injuries. In this article, we will explore the sports that require mouthguards and the different types of mouthguards available.
Football
Football is a high-contact sport that requires players to wear mouthguards to protect their teeth and jaws from impact. Football mouthguards are typically made of a durable, shock-absorbing material that can withstand heavy hits and collisions. They are custom-fitted to each player’s mouth to provide maximum protection and comfort.
Additionally, football players who wear braces may require a special type of mouthguard that can accommodate their orthodontic appliances. These mouthguards are designed to fit over braces and prevent damage to the brackets and wires.
Basketball
Although basketball is not a contact sport, players are still at risk of dental injuries from accidental collisions or falls. Mouthguards are recommended for basketball players to protect their teeth and prevent injuries to the jaw and mouth.
There are several types of mouthguards available for basketball players, including boil-and-bite mouthguards and custom-fitted mouthguards. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are a more affordable option that can be molded to the shape of the player’s mouth. Custom-fitted mouthguards, on the other hand, are made by a dentist and provide the best fit and protection.
Hockey
Hockey is another high-contact sport that requires players to wear mouthguards. The fast-paced nature of the game and the use of sticks and pucks increase the risk of dental injuries. Mouthguards for hockey players are typically made of a thick, shock-absorbing material that can withstand heavy impacts.
Like football, hockey players who wear braces may require a special type of mouthguard that can accommodate their orthodontic appliances. These mouthguards are designed to fit over braces and prevent damage to the brackets and wires.
Boxing
Boxing is a combat sport that involves punching and striking, making it one of the most high-risk sports for dental injuries. Mouthguards are mandatory for all boxers to protect their teeth and prevent injuries to the jaw and mouth.
Boxing mouthguards are typically made of a thick, shock-absorbing material that can withstand heavy blows. They are custom-fitted to each boxer’s mouth to provide maximum protection and comfort.
Lacrosse
Lacrosse is a high-contact sport that requires players to wear mouthguards to protect their teeth and prevent injuries to the jaw and mouth. Mouthguards for lacrosse players are typically made of a thick, shock-absorbing material that can withstand heavy impacts.
Like basketball, there are several types of mouthguards available for lacrosse players, including boil-and-bite mouthguards and custom-fitted mouthguards.
Soccer
Soccer is not a high-contact sport, but players are still at risk of dental injuries from accidental collisions or falls. Mouthguards are recommended for soccer players to protect their teeth and prevent injuries to the jaw and mouth.
There are several types of mouthguards available for soccer players, including boil-and-bite mouthguards and custom-fitted mouthguards. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are a more affordable option that can be molded to the shape of the player’s mouth. Custom-fitted mouthguards, on the other hand, are made by a dentist and provide the best fit and protection.
Types of Mouthguards
There are several types of mouthguards available for athletes, including:
- Stock mouthguards: These are pre-made, ready-to-wear mouthguards that can be purchased at sporting goods stores. They are the least expensive option but provide the least amount of protection and comfort.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards: These mouthguards are made from a thermoplastic material that softens in hot water. The athlete then bites down on the mouthguard to mold it to the shape of their teeth and gums. They provide better protection and comfort than stock mouthguards.
- Custom-fitted mouthguards: These mouthguards are made by a dentist and provide the best fit and protection. The dentist takes an impression of the athlete’s teeth and gums and creates a mouthguard that is custom-fitted to their mouth.
Conclusion
Mouthguards are an essential piece of equipment for athletes who participate in high-risk sports. They protect the teeth and jaws from impact and prevent dental injuries. There are several types of mouthguards available, including stock mouthguards, boil-and-bite mouthguards, and custom-fitted mouthguards. Athletes should consult with their dentist to determine which type of mouthguard is best for their needs.
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