At Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery, we know how quickly sports-related accidents can happen—even in non-contact activities. Did you know that up to 40% of all dental injuries occur during sports? From basketball courts to soccer fields, the risk of impact to the teeth, mouth, or face is ever-present. Whether from an accidental elbow, a fall, or a fast-flying ball, these incidents can result in serious injuries such as chipped teeth, jaw fractures, or soft tissue damage.
These injuries not only cause immediate pain but can also require complex treatments, including root canals, dental implants, or even surgical procedures to realign facial structures. That’s why we encourage every athlete to use proper protective gear. If you’re looking for expert advice or dental solutions, an Oral Surgeon in Orland Park from our practice is here to help keep you safe and healthy.
Why Mouthguards Are Essential for Athletes
According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, mouthguards are essential in minimizing trauma to the teeth and jaw. By absorbing the impact of sudden blows to the face or head, mouthguards help prevent not only dental injuries but also concussions. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard ensures athletes can play safely and confidently, reducing the risk of serious injuries that could require extensive treatments, such as dental implants or jaw surgery.
Types of Sports Mouthguards
If you’re considering a mouthguard for yourself or a family member, it’s important to choose the right one for optimal protection. Here are the three main types of mouthguards:
1. Stock Mouthguards
These guards are readily available at most sports stores, offering a quick solution for athletes. However, their one-size-fits-all design often makes them uncomfortable and less effective. Because they don’t provide a secure fit, stock guards may move around during play, increasing the risk of injury. While they’re better than nothing, they’re not ideal for long-term protection.
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Boil-and-bite guards are popular because they provide a semi-custom fit. The user softens the guard in boiling water, bites down on it, and molds it to the shape of their teeth. This customization improves comfort and protection over stock guards, helping reduce the risk of injury during sports. However, they may not provide the same level of precision and durability as professionally made custom guards.
3. Custom-Made Mouthguards
For the best possible fit and protection, custom mouthguards are the way to go. Made from dental impressions taken by a professional, these guards are designed specifically for your mouth. Custom guards offer superior comfort, durability, and protection, which can save athletes from costly dental injuries and extensive treatments. While they require a higher initial investment, their precision fit ensures they stay in place, giving you peace of mind during intense play.
Don’t Let Sports Injuries Derail Your Health
Every year, more than 5 million teeth are knocked out due to sports-related accidents, leading to an estimated $500 million in treatment costs. In many cases, timely intervention by an Oral Surgeon in Orland Park can help save or reimplant a knocked-out tooth. Acting quickly after an injury—and wearing a protective mouthguard—can make all the difference in preserving your smile.
Invest in Custom Protection Today
If you or your child participates in sports, now is the time to invest in a custom-made mouthguard. At Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery, we are committed to helping athletes protect their smiles. Custom mouthguards not only provide the best fit and comfort but also help prevent costly and painful injuries to the teeth and jaw.
Schedule a consultation with our Oral Surgeon in Orland Park today to explore your options. We’ll help you find the right mouthguard for your needs so you can focus on playing your best—without worrying about facial injuries.
Don’t leave your dental health to chance. Take the proactive step of wearing a mouthguard and safeguard your smile for the future. Call our office today to schedule an appointment and keep your smile—and your game—on point.
