Tennessee Youth Football player with mouthguard

How sports mouthguards protect against dental injuries

The National Youth Sports Safety Foundation estimates more than 3 million teeth are knocked out every year in youth sporting events. Dentists point to mouthguards as a way to prevent dental injuries in sports.

What are sports mouthguards?

Sports mouth guards, also called mouth protectors or athletic mouthguards, are used to protect the teeth, gums, and soft tissues of the mouth from sports-related injuries.

The American Dental Association recommends people of all ages use a mouthguard if they are participating in contact sports or other activities that could cause mouth or dental injury.

Occlusal guards, or nightguards, which are used to prevent clenching and bruxism, as well as sleep apnea devices, are sometimes associated with the mouthguard category. However, these are separate oral devices that we cover in a separate article.

Who needs a sports mouthguard?

Sports mouth guards are intended for people of all ages who participate in an activity that poses a risk of damaging the mouth, whether competitively or recreationally.

A sports mouthguard is recommended if you play contact sports. This includes, but is not limited to, football, soccer, boxing, basketball, field hockey, ice hockey, volleyball, and wrestling. Sports mouthguards can also be used for other non-contact sports and recreational activities that may cause damage to the mouth, such as gymnastics, biking, skateboarding, and ice- and roller-skating.¹

Types of sports mouth guards

Stock (ready-made) – Ready-made mouthguards are the least expensive and most commonly available type. These are typically available at department and sporting goods stores and do not require a visit to the dentist. Stock mouthguards come in a range of sizes and are not personalized for each individual mouth.
Mouth formed (boil and bite) – These self-adapting mouthguards soften when placed in hot water and are then adapted to the wearer's individual mouth through bite pressure and manipulation of fingers and tongue. Dentists may assist with final molding, but otherwise, you can these types of mouthguards at many retail establishments and sporting goods stores.
Custom mouth guards – These mouth guards are created in a laboratory or dental office from a patient’s bite impressions. A custom mouthguard provides the best fit, comfort, and efficiency, but is also the most expensive option and require dental visits. Comfort is an important aspect to keep in mind during the selection process because a mouth guard only works if it is worn.²

More frequently asked questions

If I have braces, can I wear a sports mouthguard?

Yes! It is particularly important to wear a mouthguard if you play sports and wear braces. Mouthguards will not only protect your teeth, but also prevent the braces from accidentally tearing your lips, cheeks, and tongue.

Stock and mouth-formed mouth guards designed for wear with braces are available, but most dentists will recommend a custom-made guard for the most comfortable fit. These mouthguards will need adjustments as the braces begin to change your teeth alignment. Your orthodontist or dentist can make the mouth guard and monitor its fit over time.³

It’s important to the right fit for your mouth and braces to protect the substantial investment you are making in your long-term oral health.

Do mouth guards prevent injuries?

Yes! The National Youth Sports Foundation for Safety reports an athlete is 60 times more likely to experience a dental injury when not wearing a mouthguard. Mouth guards can help prevent serious dental injuries, like broken and knocked out teeth and jaw fractures, as well as injuries to your lips, tongue, cheeks and jaws.⁴ A mouthguard helps avoid situations where the lower jaw gets jammed into the upper jaw by providing a cushioning effect between teeth and redistributing the forces of any sudden impact. A mouthguard also helps prevent the teeth from cutting into the soft tissues of the oral cavity.

How should I care for a mouthguard?

It’s important to take care of your sports mouthguard by regularly cleaning it with soap and warm water and soaking it in alcohol-free mouthwash. You can also prevent bacteria from growing by always storing it in a ventilated case when not in use so that it stays dry.

You should also avoid leaving your mouthguard in direct sunlight in a hot car and be mindful of not bending the mouth guard the wrong way.

Like a toothbrush, your mouthguard can wear out, so it is important to regularly check for wear and tear. We recommend bringing your mouthguard to your dental appointments so your dentist can check it for fit and wear in order to determine if it needs replacement.

Is a mouth guard only for upper teeth?

Typically, a mouthguard only covers the upper teeth. However, if you have braces, your dentist or orthodontist may suggest a mouthguard for the lower teeth as well. If you have a protruding jaw, or an underbite, or you wear dental appliances like retainers, implant-supported dentures, or bridgework, then your dentist may recommend a mouthguard for lower teeth.

Final thoughts

Sports mouthguards are an important piece of athletic equipment. For anyone involved in competitive or recreational activities where the risk of getting hit in the face or mouth by a ball, stick, puck, flying body part, or face plant into the ground exists, wearing a mouthguard is certainly recommended.

You may wonder what kind of sports mouthguard is right for you. Ultimately, the most effective sports mouthguard is one you will wear. It should be comfortable, resistant to tearing, and durable, as well as fit properly, be easy to clean, and not restrict speech or breathing. For more information, we recommend you speak to your dentist who can answer any questions you may have.

Broken or knocked-out teeth do not grow back. Protect your perfect smile and wear a mouth guard.

Hear from Tennessee Titans and Nashville Predators athletes about why you should wear a mouthguard here.