Dsalita Why Wear Mouthguard During Sports
Sports are a great way to stay active and healthy, but they can also be dangerous. One common injury that athletes often face is dental trauma. This is why wearing a mouthguard during sports is so important. In this article, we will explore the different reasons why mouthguards are necessary for athletes.
Protect Teeth from Impact
One of the main reasons why athletes wear mouthguards is to protect their teeth from impact. Sports like football, hockey, and basketball involve a lot of physical contact, and it’s not uncommon for players to accidentally hit each other in the face. A mouthguard can help absorb the impact and prevent teeth from getting chipped, cracked, or knocked out.
Moreover, mouthguards can also protect the lips, tongue, and cheeks from getting injured during a collision. These soft tissues are vulnerable to cuts and bruises, and a mouthguard can act as a cushion to reduce the risk of injury.
Prevent Concussions and Brain Injuries
Another benefit of wearing a mouthguard is that it can help prevent concussions and brain injuries. When a person gets hit in the face, the force of the impact can travel through the jaw and into the skull, causing the brain to shake inside the head. This can lead to a concussion, which is a type of traumatic brain injury that can have long-lasting effects on a person’s health.
A mouthguard can help reduce the risk of concussion by absorbing some of the shock and preventing the jaw from slamming shut. This can help reduce the force of the impact and protect the brain from injury.
Improve Breathing and Performance
In addition to protecting the teeth and brain, wearing a mouthguard can also improve breathing and performance. Some mouthguards are designed to help athletes breathe more easily by keeping the airway open and reducing snoring and sleep apnea. This can lead to better oxygen flow, which can improve endurance and reduce fatigue.
Moreover, a mouthguard can also help athletes perform better by reducing clenching and grinding of the teeth. This can help relax the jaw muscles and improve overall comfort and focus during a game or practice.
Comply with Regulations
Some sports organizations require athletes to wear mouthguards as part of their safety regulations. For example, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) mandates that all high school football players wear mouthguards during games and practices. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties or disqualification from the game.
Save Money and Time
Finally, wearing a mouthguard can save athletes money and time in the long run. Dental procedures like fillings, root canals, and implants can be expensive and time-consuming, and they can also cause pain and discomfort. By wearing a mouthguard, athletes can prevent dental injuries and avoid the need for costly treatments.
Moreover, mouthguards are relatively inexpensive and easy to obtain. They can be purchased at sporting goods stores or online, and they can be custom-fitted by a dentist for a more comfortable and secure fit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wearing a mouthguard during sports is essential for protecting teeth, preventing concussions, improving breathing and performance, complying with regulations, and saving money and time. Athletes of all ages and skill levels should wear a mouthguard whenever they engage in physical activities that involve contact or collisions. By doing so, they can enjoy the benefits of sports while minimizing the risk of injury.
