Mouthguards: For Sports and Much More

With football season in full swing, athletic trainers and parents are scrambling to get mouthguards for the players. Whether custom made or boil and bite, these simple devices may not look like much, but on the field, they are vital for preventing broken teeth, cut lips, and even concussions. Every player, from rec leagues, our local high schools, or colleges, should wear a properly fitted sports mouthguard. It’s a small investment that can prevent a lifetime of dental problems.

And sports guard

s aren’t just for football. Athletes in basketball, hockey, wrestling, and even soccer are at risk of facial injuries from elbows, sticks, or falls. A properly fitted guard can make all the difference, keeping both teeth and soft tissues safe no matter the sport.

But mouthguards aren’t only for athletes. In dentistry, they play an important role in protecting teeth, reducing pain, and even improving sleep. Depending on the design, a mouthguard can be custom-made to address very specific needs.

One of the most common uses is the flat nightguard. Many people grind or clench their teeth while they sleep, a condition called bruxism. Left untreated, bruxism can wear down enamel, fracture teeth, and cause jaw pain. A nightguard places a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing damage and allowing the jaw to rest.

For patients who suffer from chronic headaches or migraines related to jaw tension, a different style is made that only allows the front to touch. This design adjusts the way the teeth and jaw come together, helping relax overworked muscles and often lessening the frequency or intensity of headaches.

Mouthguards can also be used for cosmetic purposes.  Aligners are orthodontic devices which are stiff trays that are changed every couple of weeks allowing teeth to move without traditional braces. Most people are familiar with the original Invisalign that was first to market.  Whitening trays, which are a type of thin, custom guard, hold whitening gel against the teeth for an even, controlled brightening effect. Rather than buying one-size-fits-all trays from the store, custom versions from the dentist ensure the gel stays where it should, maximizing results and minimizing irritation.

Finally, there are oral appliances designed to help with snoring and sleep apnea. These specialized mouthguards reposition the jaw or tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. For people with mild to moderate sleep apnea, they can be an effective alternative to CPAP machines by improving rest, energy, and overall health. This area of dentistry is growing quickly, as more people are diagnosed with sleep-related breathing disorders and seek alternatives to bulky machines. Many patients find oral appliances easier to use, more comfortable, and better suited to travel.

So, while fall sports put mouthguards in the spotlight, their value goes far beyond the playing field. From protecting athletes to helping patients sleep better, ease headaches, or improve their smiles, mouthguards are a versatile tool in dentistry. If you think one might help you, talk with your dentist or hygienist so they can help guide you toward the right option for your needs.