Why are sports guards important?
Mouthguards act as a protective shield for the entirety of the mouth, from the teeth to the jaw, and even the soft tissues like our inner cheek, tongue and gums.
A sports mouthguard is a protective orthodontic appliance which covers the teeth in a rubbery or soft plastic-like retainer. The guard is typically thicker than a retainer and provides a cushion to the teeth, providing an additional layer of safety while playing physical sports.
Different types of sports, which are physical, can expose individuals to the risk of trauma to the mouth. These sports fall into two categories: contact and non-contact sports. For contact sports, individuals will likely be physical with another opponent, and the probability of exposure to oral trauma increases. With non-contact sports, the risk is usually due to an element like a flying object, such as a ball.
The top 10 sports mouthguards are used for
Field and ice hockey mouthguards
Ice hockey utilises an object called a puck, whilst field hockey uses a ball. Both types see players hitting the objects with hockey sticks at force. When these objects hurtle into the air, they can bring a lot of force onto the face. A mouthguard is a great piece of protective gear which can keep the teeth and mouth safe.
Cricket mouthguards
Cricket, similarly to hockey, has flying objects which can cause damage to the face and mouth. Unlike hockey, cricket is a non-contact sport, so the chances of hurting the mouth are slightly lessened. That being said, prevention is key, and a sports guard can provide that extra bit of security while playing.
Football mouthguards
Football is a highly physical sport, with the entire body often being engaged as players run up and down the pitch, kicking the ball. Mouthguards can be particularly great for absorbing the shock from contact with a ball to the face.
Rugby union mouthguards
Rugby is a contact sport and is characterised by the physicality required to prevent opponents from obtaining the ball. This sport can be particularly rough on the body, which is why most players will utilise sports guards.
Amateur and professional boxing mouthguards
Boxing requires a lot of physicality from fighters, often with blows being directed to the face and mouth area. This sport necessitates a mouth guard, as those who do not can get seriously injured.
Basketball mouthguards
Basketball, like football, is strenuous on the body, with players often making contact with others or the ball. A sports guard acts as a barrier between the teeth and the object colliding with it. Using one can prevent injuries from occurring.
Hurling mouthguards
Hurling is another contact sport which is similar to field hockey. Like field hockey, there’s an increased chance of players being hit in the face by a ball or, in the event of an accident, a hurling stick. A mouthguard provides a blanket of protection to the mouth.
Gymnastics mouthguards
Gymnastics is another physical sport which can wound the mouth; a mouthguard is perfect for preventing any severe damage to the teeth and mouth.
Martial arts mouthguards
Martial arts all require different levels of physicality, out of principle, utilising a sports guard will ensure the individual mitigates any risk of injury.
Wrestling mouthguards
Wrestling, similarly to martial arts, is an incredibly physical sport, which often has its fighters being hit, knocked and kicked. These all raise the probability of injury; we recommend those who wrestle purchase a mouthguard to help them stay safe.