Whether it’s football, soccer, lacrosse, or any contact sport, protecting your teeth is just as important as training your muscles. A sports mouthguard is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent serious dental injuries—but not all mouthguards are created equal.

Why Mouthguards Matter

Sports-related dental injuries can be painful, expensive, and sometimes permanent. A well-fitted mouthguard can protect against:

  • Broken or chipped teeth
  • Lip, cheek, and tongue injuries
  • Jaw fractures
  • Tooth loss

Studies show that athletes who wear mouthguards are **60 times less likely** to suffer dental injuries than those who don’t.

Store-Bought vs. Custom-Fit

You’ve probably seen the “boil-and-bite” mouthguards in sporting goods stores. While they’re inexpensive, they often don’t fit as comfortably or securely as a custom-made one from your dentist. A poorly fitted mouthguard can:

  • Make breathing harder
  • Fall out during play
  • Offer less protection

Custom mouthguards, on the other hand, are designed specifically for your mouth, offering:

  • Better comfort
  • Easier breathing and speaking
  • Maximum protection for teeth and jaw

Caring for Your Mouthguard

  • Rinse with cold water after each use
  • Store it in a ventilated container
  • Avoid leaving it in hot places (like your car) to prevent warping
  • Bring it to your dental checkups so we can ensure it still fits well

The Bottom Line

Your smile is worth protecting. If you or your child play sports, a high-quality mouthguard is a small investment that can save you from pain and costly repairs.

Schedule your custom sports mouthguard fitting today!

Call Abingdon Box Hill Family Dentistry at 410-569-8500 to protect your smile this season.

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