Protecting Your Family’s Smiles
Summer Sports & Mouthguards
Summer is a time for outdoor adventures, sports camps, family activities, and plenty of fun in the Arizona sunshine. Whether it’s baseball, soccer, basketball, skateboarding, mountain biking, or simply playing with friends, summer often means more activity—and unfortunately, a higher risk of dental injuries.
Many parents think of helmets, sunscreen, and hydration when preparing for sports and recreation. But one of the most important pieces of protective equipment is often overlooked: the mouthguard.
Protecting your smile during sports can help prevent painful injuries, expensive treatment, and long-term dental complications.
Dental Injuries Are More Common Than You Think
According to dental organizations, millions of teeth are knocked out or damaged each year during sports and recreational activities.
Common injuries include:
- Chipped teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Broken teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Lip and cheek injuries
- Jaw injuries
Many of these injuries can happen in a split second and may require emergency dental care.
The good news is that many sports-related dental injuries are preventable.
Why Mouthguards Matter
A mouthguard acts as a cushion between your teeth and potential impacts.
When properly fitted, a mouthguard helps:
- Absorb shock
- Protect teeth from fractures
- Reduce soft tissue injuries
- Lower the risk of serious dental trauma
- Help protect the jaw
For athletes of all ages, a mouthguard is one of the simplest and most effective forms of protection available.
Which Activities Require Mouthguards?
Most people associate sports mouthguards with football or hockey, but many other activities can put teeth at risk.
Consider a mouthguard for:
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Baseball
- Softball
- Volleyball
- Martial arts
- Skateboarding
- BMX riding
- Mountain biking
- Wrestling
- Lacrosse
- Gymnastics
Even recreational activities can lead to accidental falls and collisions.
Types of Mouthguards
Stock Mouthguards
These are pre-formed and available at many sporting goods stores.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Readily available
Cons:
- Limited fit
- Can feel bulky
- May interfere with speaking and breathing
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
These soften in hot water and mold somewhat to the teeth.
Pros:
- Better fit than stock versions
- Affordable
Cons:
- Fit can vary
- Less protection than custom options
Custom Mouthguards
Created specifically for your mouth by a dental professional.
Pros:
- Best fit
- Most comfortable
- Superior protection
- Easier breathing and speaking
For athletes who participate regularly in sports, custom mouthguards often provide the best combination of comfort and protection.
What To Do If a Tooth Gets Knocked Out
Despite precautions, accidents can still happen.
If a permanent tooth is knocked out:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root).
- Gently rinse it if dirty.
- If possible, place it back into the socket.
- If not, keep it moist in milk.
- Seek dental care immediately.
Time is critical. Quick action can significantly improve the chances of saving the tooth.
Don’t Forget Hydration
Summer sports also increase the risk of dehydration.
Proper hydration helps:
- Maintain saliva production
- Reduce dry mouth
- Protect enamel
- Support overall athletic performance
Water remains one of the best choices for both oral and overall health.
Protecting Smiles for a Lifetime
Summer should be filled with memories—not dental emergencies.
A properly fitted sports mouthguard can help protect your child—or yourself—from preventable injuries while enjoying sports and recreational activities.
At Dr. E Dentistry, we love helping families keep their smiles healthy, strong, and protected all year long.
Whether you have questions about mouthguards, preventive care, or protecting your family’s oral health, Dr. E and our caring team are here to help.
Because every great summer deserves plenty of healthy smiles. 💙
Contact us today:
📍 Dr. E Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
Ahwatukee / Phoenix, Arizona
Proudly serving Ahwatukee as BEST DENTIST
📞 Call us to schedule your appointment: 480-494-2435
🌐 Visit us online to learn more: www.drefamilydental.com