Getting Ready for Fall Sports? What to Know About Sports Mouthguards

As school teams, recreational leagues, and fall sports return, athletes often spend time checking helmets, pads, footwear, and other equipment. Dental protection deserves a place on that list as well. For activities where contact, falls, or impacts to the face can occur, a properly fitted mouthguard may help protect the teeth and surrounding oral tissues. The general dentists at Dr. Surya Family Dentistry provide custom sports mouthguards in Waterdown for children, teens, and adults based on their individual needs.

Which Sports May Call for a Mouthguard?

Mouthguards are commonly associated with contact sports, but dental injuries can also happen during activities where players, equipment, or the ground can come into contact with the face. Hockey, football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, martial arts, and similar activities are examples where athletes may want to discuss dental protection. Requirements vary between sports and leagues, so athletes and parents should also check the rules that apply to their particular activity.

Why Does Fit Matter?

A sports mouthguard needs to stay in place while allowing the athlete to breathe and communicate comfortably. Dr. Surya Family Dentistry’s mouthguard service uses impressions of the teeth to create a custom appliance and includes a fit assessment before the mouthguard is used. A mouthguard that is uncomfortable or repeatedly moves out of position may be more difficult to wear consistently during practices and games.

Children and Teenagers May Need Their Fit Checked as They Grow

A mouthguard that fit well previously may not continue fitting the same way as a child’s teeth and jaws develop. Erupting permanent teeth, orthodontic changes, and normal growth can all influence fit. Families already attending children’s dental appointments in Waterdown can bring an existing mouthguard to a visit if they have questions about whether it still fits appropriately.

What If Your Child Has Braces or Other Dental Work?

Athletes with braces, crowns, restorations, or other dental treatment may have additional considerations when selecting a mouthguard. The appliance needs to account for the current condition and position of the teeth, so it is useful to tell the dentist about the sport being played and any ongoing dental or orthodontic treatment before the mouthguard is made.

How Should a Sports Mouthguard Be Cared For?

Regular cleaning and storage can help keep a mouthguard in usable condition. Dr. Surya Family Dentistry recommends rinsing it after use, cleaning it with mild soap or an appropriate cleaner, and storing it in a protective case. The mouthguard should also be checked for cracks, wear, distortion, or changes in fit, and it can be brought to routine dental appointments for assessment.

When Should a Mouthguard Be Replaced?

There is no single replacement schedule that applies to every athlete. A mouthguard may need to be replaced if it becomes damaged, worn, distorted, uncomfortable, or no longer fits properly. Growing children and teenagers may require more frequent reassessment because their mouths are still changing. A dentist can examine the appliance and help determine whether continued use is appropriate.

What If a Dental Injury Happens During Sports?

Even with protective equipment, dental injuries can still occur. A chipped, broken, loose, or knocked-out tooth should be assessed promptly. Dr. Surya Family Dentistry provides emergency dental care in Waterdown for dental injuries and other urgent concerns. More significant facial or head injuries may require medical assessment as well.

Add Dental Protection to Your Sports Checklist

A sports mouthguard is one part of preparing for activities where the teeth may be at risk of impact. Choosing an appliance that fits properly, checking it as children grow, keeping it clean, and replacing it when necessary can help athletes use it consistently throughout the season. If you or your child is preparing for fall sports, contact Dr. Surya Family Dentistry to discuss whether a custom sports mouthguard may be appropriate.