Athletic (Sports) Mouthguards
An athletic or sports mouthguard is an essential piece of safety equipment for any athlete. Whether you’re participating in competitive or recreational sports where contact and collisions are common, having the right mouthguard can make all the difference in protecting your oral health.
Why You Need an Athletic Mouthguard
Contact sports like hockey and football come with inherent risks, including lost teeth, jaw fractures, and cuts to the gums. A high-quality mouthguard not only safeguards your teeth but also protects the soft tissues around your mouth. In the event of a serious impact, a well-designed mouthguard can even reduce the risk of jaw fractures by absorbing and dispersing the force of the blow.
Types of Mouthguards
- Custom-Made Mouthguards are tailored specifically to your mouth using precise molds or scans. Made by our dentists, these guards are designed for your unique dental anatomy and the demands of your sport. They offer the best fit, maximum comfort, and superior protection, ensuring no interference with speech or breathing.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards come in a few general sizes and require heating in warm water before molding to your teeth. While they offer a more personalized fit than stock guards, they may still feel bulkier and less comfortable. They might also affect speech and breathing compared to custom-made options.
- Ready-Made (Stock) Mouthguards are a one-size-fits-all solution and are often the least comfortable of the three types. Due to their bulkiness and less precise fit, they provide the least protection and can be cumbersome to wear during physical activity.
Athletic Mouthguards vs. Night Guards
While both athletic mouthguards and night guards serve to protect your teeth, they are designed for different purposes. Athletic guards extend higher to cover your gums and soft tissues, offering comprehensive protection against impacts. In contrast, night guards are typically shorter to avoid irritation from prolonged pressure on your gums and soft tissues, as they are intended for managing teeth clenching and grinding.
Stay Protected and Play with Confidence
Choosing the right mouth guard is crucial for ensuring your safety and comfort during sports. At Merrimack Smiles, we’re here to help you select and fit the perfect mouthguard for your needs.