Sports guards, also known as mouthguards or mouth protectors, are an essential piece of athletic equipment designed to protect the teeth, gums, and jaws from injury during sports and physical activities. They are especially important for contact sports such as football, hockey, and boxing, but are also recommended for non-contact sports such as basketball, soccer, and gymnastics.

Sports guards are typically made from soft, flexible materials such as rubber or plastic, and are designed to fit over the upper teeth. They work by absorbing and distributing the force of an impact, which can help prevent injuries such as broken teeth, lacerations, and concussions.

There are several types of sports guards available, including ready-made guards that can be purchased at sporting goods stores, boil-and-bite guards that can be custom-fitted to the individual’s mouth, and custom-made guards that are professionally designed to fit the individual’s teeth.

Custom-made sports guards are the most effective and comfortable option, as they are designed to fit the individual’s teeth and provide maximum protection. Your dentist can take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-fit sports guard, which can be more expensive than other types of guards, but may provide better protection and last longer.

In addition to protecting the teeth, gums, and jaws, sports guards may also help prevent concussions and other head injuries by absorbing and distributing the force of an impact. This is especially important for athletes who participate in high-impact sports such as football and hockey.

Wearing a sports guard is especially important for children and adolescents, as their teeth and jaws are still developing and may be more susceptible to injury. It is also important to replace sports guards regularly, as they can become worn or damaged over time and may lose their protective qualities.

In summary, sports guards are an essential piece of athletic equipment designed to protect the teeth, gums, and jaws from injury during sports and physical activities. They are available in several types, including ready-made, boil-and-bite, and custom-made guards, and can provide important protection for athletes of all ages and levels. If you or your child participates in sports or other physical activities, talk to your dentist about the importance of wearing a sports guard and which type is best for you.