Contact sports can put teeth, lips, gums, and the jaw at risk during collisions or falls. A sports dental injury may range from a chipped tooth to a knocked-out tooth, making prevention an important part of athletic preparation for children, teens, and adults.
At Densley Dental in Henderson, Dr. Aman Sidhu, DDS, provides comprehensive dental care with an emphasis on protecting long-term oral health. His background includes clinical experience, dental education, and serving as the team dentist of the Las Vegas Raiders. For athletes who participate in contact or high-impact activities, a custom mouthguard can provide an added layer of protection during practices and competition.
How Do Mouthguards Help Protect The Teeth?
A mouthguard cushions the teeth and helps absorb some of the force from a blow to the mouth or jaw. This can reduce the risk of damage to teeth and surrounding soft tissues.
Sports that may benefit from mouthguard use include:
- Football
- Basketball
- Hockey
- Soccer
- Wrestling
- Boxing and martial arts
- Lacrosse
Even activities that are not traditionally classified as contact sports can carry a risk of falls or accidental impact.
Why Choose A Custom Mouthguard?
Over-the-counter mouthguards can provide basic coverage, but a custom mouthguard is designed specifically for an individual’s teeth and bite.
A professionally fitted guard typically offers a more secure fit, making it easier to breathe, speak, and keep the appliance in place during activity. A better fit may also make athletes more likely to wear the mouthguard consistently.
Custom protection is especially helpful for athletes with braces, dental restorations, or a history of oral injuries.
What Dental Injuries Can Occur During Sports?
A sports dental injury can involve more than a minor chip. Athletic impacts may lead to:
- Fractured or cracked teeth
- Loose or displaced teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Cuts to the lips, cheeks, or gums
- Damage to crowns or other restorations
- Jaw discomfort or injury
Prompt emergency dental care is important after an injury, particularly when a tooth has been loosened, displaced, or knocked out.
Protect Your Smile During Sports In Henderson, NV
A custom mouthguard can help reduce the likelihood and severity of dental injuries while allowing athletes to focus on performance. Densley Dental can evaluate an athlete’s teeth and bite and create a custom mouthguard designed for comfort, stability, and protection.
Contact Densley Dental at 702-212-6641 to schedule a consultation for a custom mouthguard in Henderson, NV.
