Safe Use of Custom Mouth Guards During Sports: Your Dentist’s Tips

Safe Use of Custom Mouth Guards During Sports: Your Dentist’s Tips

September 1, 2025

In sports, even a split-second impact can lead to severe dental damage. The right mouth guard protects more than just your teeth; it shields your whole smile. But wearing it isn’t enough. Using it the right way matters just as much. Here’s what your dentist wants every athlete to know before the next game or practice.

How a Properly Fitted Mouth Guard Reduces the Risk of Dental Injuries

Custom mouth guards aren’t just for looks or comfort. They offer absolute protection where it counts most. A well-shaped guard cushions the blow when impact happens. It spreads pressure across a wider area and helps absorb shock.

Benefits of a good fit:

  • Prevents chipped or broken teeth
  • Reduces the risk of nerve damage
  • Protects soft tissues like the lips and tongue
  • Lowers the chance of jaw fractures

When your mouth guard is crafted to match your bite, it stays in place. You won’t bite down awkwardly. You won’t fidget with it during games. You can breathe and speak clearly, critical for any athlete, whether on defense or calling a play.

And here’s something to remember: sports dental care isn’t just for pros. Anyone involved in high-impact sports should take mouth safety seriously, from middle school wrestlers to adult weekend warriors.

Common Mistakes Athletes Make When Wearing Mouth Guards

Even the best mouth guard won’t help much if it’s used the wrong way. Too often, athletes overlook small but important habits. These slip-ups can put their smiles at risk.

Watch out for these common mistakes:

  • Wearing a mouth guard that’s too loose or bulky
  • Using over-the-counter guards that don’t fit right
  • Chewing on the guard during games
  • Skipping regular cleaning
  • Sharing mouth guards (yes, some still do this!)
  • Wearing one that’s worn out or cracked

Each of these can reduce how well the guard protects you. Worse, they can cause new issues, like sore gums or bacterial buildup.

A guard should feel snug but not tight. If you find yourself adjusting it constantly, it might not be the right fit anymore. That brings us to our next point.

When to Replace a Custom Mouth Guard for Optimal Protection

Mouth guards don’t last forever. Over time, wear and tear change how they fit and how well they work.

Replace your guard if you notice:

  • Cracks or thinning spots
  • Difficulty breathing or speaking with it in
  • It no longer fits snugly
  • A bad smell even after cleaning
  • Changes in your dental structure (like new braces or missing teeth)

Kids and teens who are still growing may need a new mouth guard each season. For adults, especially those in contact sports, it’s smart to check the fit at least twice a year. Not sure if yours still offers proper protection? Schedule a quick check-up with a dentist near you to be safe.

Dentist-Approved Mouth Guards for Athletes

What makes a mouth guard dentist-approved? It’s one that’s made using impressions of your mouth, not a one-size-fits-all model off the shelf.

Custom guards offer comfort, better airflow, and stronger protection. They’re especially important if you’ve had dental work or wear braces.

Your dentist will ensure:

  • A secure fit tailored to your bite
  • Material that withstands pressure and impact
  • No sharp edges that might hurt your mouth
  • It won’t interfere with talking or breathing

Some athletes try to cut costs with boil-and-bite guards, but these tend to wear down quickly, fit poorly, and may shift during play. Visiting the best dentist for mouth guards in Lindon ensures a secure fit, better comfort, and stronger protection, helping you avoid injuries and stay focused on your game.

Where to Get a Custom Mouth Guard Near You

Getting custom mouth guards in Lindon, UT, doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Your local dental office can help with the entire process from impressions to fitting.

Here’s what the process usually looks like:

  1. Dental exam – to check for existing issues
  2. Mouth impressions – fast and painless
  3. Lab creation – where your guard is made
  4. Final fitting – where small adjustments are made if needed

If you’re searching for a mouth guard near you, start by asking your regular dentist. Or check with local sports teams, they often partner with trusted dental clinics that specialize in athletic care.

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait for an injury to remind you how important mouth protection is. The right guard can save your teeth and your season. Visit Pleasant Dental to get fitted for a custom solution that moves with you and guards what matters most. Call today or book online to get your personalized fit before your next game. Your smile deserves it.

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