When it comes to staying active, protecting your teeth is just as important as protecting the rest of your body. Many athletes use helmets, pads, and other protective gear, but sometimes forget to protect one of the most vulnerable parts of the body: the mouth. That’s where sports guards can help.
A sports guard is a custom-fitted device that guards your teeth and gums during physical activity. Whether you’re playing football, basketball, soccer, or track, a sports guard protects you from painful and costly injuries. At Garden Ridge Center For Dentistry, we recommend sports guards for any patients who are active in sports.
Why Do Young Athletes Need Sports Guards?
Youth sports are exciting, but they also come with high risks. A sudden fall, tackle, or a fast ball can all cause serious mouth injuries. These injuries may include chipped, knocked-out, or cracked teeth. Athletes can also experience painful cuts on their lips, cheeks, or tongue, and in some cases, even jaw injuries that can lead to costly long-term dental problems.
A sports guard helps prevent these issues by acting like a cushion to absorb the shock and reduce the impact of a hit or fall. Wearing a sports guard is just as important as wearing a helmet during a game. Our dental team sees firsthand how wearing a simple guard can prevent major dental emergencies. That’s why, as the best family dentist in Garden Ridge, we strongly encourage every athlete to protect their smile with a custom sports guard.
Types of Sports Guards
Not all sports guards are created equal. While they all serve the same purpose, the quality, comfort, and level of protection can vary depending on the type you choose.
- Stock Sports Guards – Inexpensive and easy to find in stores, but often bulky and uncomfortable to wear, making it hard to breathe or talk.
- Boil-and-Bite Sports Guards – Fitted at home using hot water for a comfortable fit, but they wear down quickly and lose their shape over time.
- Custom Sports Guards – Made by your Garden Ridge dentist using impressions of your teeth for the best fit, comfort, and durability. You can even choose custom colors to show off your team pride!
Choosing the right sports guard from the best family dentist can make all the difference in your performance and long-term dental health.
Benefits of Custom Sports Guards
Athletes know that the right gear makes all the difference, and sports guards are no exception. They provide strong protection against broken or knocked-out teeth, while offering a comfortable fit that makes it easy to breathe, talk, and play. Sports guards also help shield the lips, cheeks, and tongue from cuts, and give extra support to reduce the risk of jaw injuries during high-impact collisions. When you play hard, you deserve gear you can trust!
Strong Smiles for Strong Athletes
From Friday night football to varsity basketball, the right gear can be the difference between a winning season and an emergency trip to a Garden Ridge dentist office.
But protecting your teeth isn’t just about what you wear on the field. Many athletes rely on sports drinks for energy, but the high sugar and acids can weaken enamel over time. Water is always the best option for hydration. Snacking on crunchy fruits and veggies like apples and carrots can help naturally clean your teeth and keep your gums strong. And of course, sticking to your brushing, flossing, and regular checkups will prevent small problems from becoming major setbacks
Winning Smiles Start Here
So, what exactly do sports guards do for your teeth? They protect your smile from damage, save you from painful injuries, and give you the confidence to play your best. For any athlete, they’re a must-have piece of equipment. Our custom sports guards are made for athletes like you: tough, reliable, and built to perform.
Ready to protect your smile on the field? Contact Garden Ridge Center for Dentistry or call 210.651.5100 to book your appointment for a custom sports guard today!
