Mouthguards And Sports Dentistry: Protecting Young Athletes’ Smiles

Fast Plays, Big Impacts—Protect The Smile That Plays Hard

From soccer and basketball to lacrosse and hockey, contact and semi-contact sports carry real risk for dental injuries. A custom mouthguard is one of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to protect teeth, lips, and jaws. If you’re a parent in Lansdale outfitting your young athlete—or a weekend warrior yourself—here’s what to know about choosing the right protection.

What Mouthguards Actually Do

A mouthguard cushions impact by absorbing and distributing force across a larger area. That helps prevent:

• Chipped or broken teeth

• Knocked-out teeth (avulsions)

• Cuts to lips, cheeks, and tongue

• Jaw joint injuries and some concussion-related forces

While no device eliminates concussion risk, a properly fitted mouthguard reduces dental trauma dramatically.

Types Of Mouthguards: Good, Better, Best

Store-Bought “Boil-And-Bite”

These soft guards are molded at home. They’re affordable and better than nothing, but the fit can be bulky or loose, which means athletes may chew on them, take them out to talk, or leave them on the bench—right when they’re needed most.

Stock Guards

Pre-formed and inexpensive, stock guards often fit poorly and can hinder breathing and speech. They’re the least recommended option.

Custom-Fit Mouthguards (Best)

Made from an impression or scan of your teeth, custom guards hug tooth surfaces for a secure, comfortable fit. They’re thinner where they can be and thicker where they need to be, improving speech, oxygen flow, and compliance—because athletes actually wear them.

Position-Specific Considerations

• Contact sports (football, hockey, lacrosse): Maximum coverage and durability are key.

• Court and field sports (basketball, soccer): Slim, high-retention guards encourage consistent use.

• Orthodontic patients: Special designs accommodate braces and allow for tooth movement while protecting lips and cheeks.

Caring For A Mouthguard

Rinse after practices and games, brush gently with a toothbrush (no hot water), and store in a ventilated case. Avoid leaving the guard in a hot car or direct sun—heat can warp the material. Replace it each season or sooner if it becomes loose, chewed, or cracked. Kids and teens with changing dentitions may need more frequent updates.

What To Do If A Tooth Is Knocked Out

Time is everything. Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root), gently rinse if dirty, and try to reinsert it into the socket. If that’s not possible, place it in milk or an emergency tooth preservation kit and head straight to the dentist. The best outcomes happen when the tooth is reimplanted within 30–60 minutes.

Bite Guards For Non-Sport Issues

If your athlete grinds at night or you grind during work stress, a nightguard is a different appliance designed to reduce tooth wear and muscle strain. It’s not meant for sports but can save enamel and prevent cracks from clenching forces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will A Mouthguard Affect Breathing?

A custom guard is contoured to your bite, allowing better airflow than bulky over-the-counter options. Most athletes adapt within a practice or two.

Can I Get Team Colors Or A Number?

Yes—many custom guards can be made in colors, with logos or jersey numbers. The cooler it looks, the more likely it’s worn.

How Long Does A Custom Guard Take?

Most guards are ready in about a week after a quick scan or impression. Rush options may be available during peak seasons.

Play Hard, Smile Confidently

Sports build confidence, discipline, and lifelong habits. With the right mouthguard, you add protection that keeps smiles photo-ready on and off the field—season after season.

Need a season-ready custom mouthguard? Call D1 Dentistry on Main in Lansdale at 215-855-9068 to Schedule a Consultation and get a comfortable, durable guard that fits right.