Being active in sports is a great way to stay healthy and have fun with your team. But fast games often come with a risk of bumps or falls that can hurt your face.
Visiting a dentist in Lethbridge before the season starts is a smart way to make sure your smile is ready for the game.
A simple piece of safety gear can be the difference between a fun match and a trip for a painful repair. Taking care of your teeth now means you can play hard without any worry later.
Why Should You Wear A Tray During The Game?
When you run, jump, or play close to other people, your mouth is at risk of getting hit.
Looking for mouth guards near you lets you find a safety tool that fits perfectly over your teeth. This soft tray acts like a cushion for your mouth.
- Shock Absorption: It soaks up the force of a hit so your teeth do not smash together.
- Shielding: It creates a barrier between your soft lips and hard teeth.
- Stability: It helps keep your teeth in place during a collision.
- Confidence: It allows you to play your best without fear of a dental emergency.
Without it, even a small bump can cause a lot of pain and damage.
How Can You Avoid Common Game-Day Accidents?
The main goal of wearing safety gear is to prevent dental injuries that happen in a split second.
Many people think they only need protection for rough sports like hockey, but accidents happen in basketball, soccer, and even gymnastics.
- Broken Teeth: A guard stops your teeth from chipping if you get hit in the jaw.
- Cut Lips: It covers the sharp edges of your teeth so you don’t bite your lip if you fall.
- Jaw Safety: The padding helps protect the jaw joint during a hard hit.
- Saving Roots: It keeps your teeth from being knocked loose or falling out.
What Is The Best Way To Keep Your Smile Safe?
It is much easier and cheaper to use gear to protect teeth during sports than it is to fix a tooth that has been knocked out.
While you can buy cheap trays at a store, they often feel big and make it hard to breathe. A custom-made version fits your own mouth perfectly, so it stays in place even if you fall.
| Feature | Custom-Made Guard | Boil-and-Bite | Store Guard |
| Fit | Perfect for you | Okay | Loose and big |
| Comfort | Very High | Medium | Low |
| Breathing | Easy | Medium | Hard |
| Talking | Clear | A bit hard | Very hard |
| Safety Level | Best | Good | Basic |
Keeping Your Safety Gear Clean
Since you put this tray in your mouth every time you play, you must keep it very clean. Germs and spit can build up on the plastic, which can make it smell bad.
- Rinse: Use cool water after every single use.
- Sanitize: Clean your mouth guards with a mild soap or a non-abrasive paste.
- Dry: Let your mouthguards dry before you put them in a case.
- Storage: Always use a vented case to prevent mold growth.
- Avoid Heat: Never leave it in a hot car, as heat can melt the plastic.
When Should You Get A New Guard?
Your mouth changes over time, especially for kids whose teeth are still moving. You should check your mouth guard often for signs of wear.
- Thin Spots: If the plastic looks worn down from clenching.
- Tears: Any rips can harbor bacteria and scratch your gums.
- Loose Fit: If it no longer stays on your teeth without biting down.
- New Season: It is best to get a fresh one at the start of every new sports year.
A guard that does not fit right will not protect you as well.
Protecting Your Braces During Play
If you are wearing braces, a mouth guard is even more important. A hit to the face can push the metal parts into your cheeks, causing painful cuts.
- Extra Space: Braces-specific guards have room for the metal brackets.
- Prevention: They stop wires from bending or breaking during a fall.
- Double Coverage: Sometimes guards are needed for both top and bottom rows.
- Smooth Surface: They provide a smooth area so your lips don’t get snagged.
Keep Your Smile Game-Ready
At Absolute Dental, we want you to enjoy your favorite games without the fear of getting hurt. Our team is here to help you find the right protection so you can stay focused on the match.
We believe that being safe is the best way to keep your smile healthy and bright for a long time.
Whether you are a pro or just playing for fun, we can keep you safe on the field.
Reach out to us today to get your custom protection!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a guard for non-contact sports?
Yes, because many injuries happen from falling or bumping into other players by accident. Even in sports like volleyball, a guard is a simple way to stay safe just in case.
Can I wear my mouth guard on my bottom teeth?
Most people only need a guard for their top teeth because those are hit most often. But if you have braces on your bottom teeth, your team might suggest a guard for both rows.
How long does it take to get a custom guard?
The process is very fast and usually only takes two short visits. First, a mold is made of your teeth, and then you come back a few days later to make sure the new guard fits right.
Can I chew on my mouth guard while I play?
No, you should not chew on it because it can ruin the shape and make the plastic thin. If the guard is chewed up, it won’t be able to protect your teeth as well as it should.