Sports Mouthguards: Protect Your Teeth, Prevent Injuries & Reduce Dental Emergencies

Whether you play football, basketball, soccer, martial arts, or weightlifting, a sports mouthguard is one of the most important pieces of protective gear you can own. Dental injuries happen fast — and they are expensive, painful, and often permanent.

At Phoenix Dental in Carrollwood/Tampa, we create custom-fit sports mouthguards designed to protect your teeth, prevent fractures, and reduce the risk of emergency dental visits.

Here’s why every athlete should be wearing one.

What Is a Sports Mouthguard?

A sports mouthguard is a flexible, shock-absorbing device worn over the teeth to protect the mouth during physical activity.

Custom mouthguards protect against:

• Broken or cracked teeth
  
• Knocked-out teeth
  
• Injuries to the lips, tongue, and cheeks
  
• Jaw fractures
  
• Damage to crowns, fillings, and dental work
  
• Root fractures
  
• Concussions (in some cases)
  

A mouthguard acts like a helmet for your teeth — absorbing the impact before it can reach your enamel or jaw.

Why Custom Mouthguards Are Better Than Store-Bought Guards

There are 3 main types of sports mouthguards:

1. Stock Mouthguards (Worst Option)

• Inexpensive
  
• Poor fit
  
• Difficult to keep in place
  
• Minimal protection
  
• Not recommended by dental professionals or sports associations
  

2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards (Better, Not Best)

• Slightly improved fit
  
• Still bulky and inconsistent
  
• May fall out during impact
  
• Difficult to breathe or speak
  
• Break down quickly
  

3. Custom-Fit Sports Mouthguards (Best Option)

Made by a dentist using a mold of your teeth for maximum protection and performance.

Benefits of custom mouthguards:

• Excellent shock absorption
  
• Snug, comfortable fit
  
• Easy breathing and speaking
  
• Long-lasting durability
  
• Secure — won’t fall out
  
• Protects existing dental work and orthodontics
  

Custom guards offer far better protection than any off-the-shelf option.

Who Needs a Sports Mouthguard?

Anyone participating in sports that involve contact, collisions, or potential falls.

Recommended for:

• Football
  
• Basketball
  
• Soccer
  
• Hockey
  
• Wrestling
  
• MMA / Martial arts
  
• Boxing
  
• Skateboarding
  
• Cheerleading
  
• BMX
  
• Volleyball
  
• Weightlifting (especially with braces)
  
• Any sport with facial injury risk
  

Even non-contact sports can result in serious oral trauma.

What Injuries Do Mouthguards Prevent?

1. Cracked or Fractured Teeth

Impact can cause damage requiring:

• Crowns
  
• Root canals
  
• Extractions
  
• Dental implants or bridges
  

A mouthguard helps absorb force before it reaches the tooth.

2. Knocked-Out Teeth

One hit can dislodge a tooth completely. Custom guards dramatically reduce this risk.

3. Damage to Dental Work

Protects:

• Fillings
  
• Crowns
  
• Veneers
  
• Bonding
  
• Composite restorations
  

Impact can destroy prior work — protection is key.

4. Soft Tissue Injuries

Helps prevent:

• Lip lacerations
  
• Tongue bites
  
• Gum damage
  
• Cheek injuries
  

5. Jaw Injuries & TMJ Strain

Cushions force to reduce jaw and joint injuries during high-impact contact.

6. Concussions (in some cases)

While not guaranteed, custom-fit mouthguards can help absorb jaw forces that may otherwise transmit to the skull.

Custom Mouthguard Process at Phoenix Dental

• Digital or physical impressions of your teeth
  
• Guard is crafted from high-strength athletic-grade material
  
• Fitting appointment to ensure proper fit and comfort
  
• Custom color and thickness options based on sport and preference
  
• Long-term protection with proper care
  

No clenching required. Custom guards stay put — securely and comfortably.

How to Care for Your Mouthguard

• Rinse before and after each use
  
• Clean with mild soap and a toothbrush
  
• Store in a ventilated container
  
• Avoid heat (no hot water, dryers, or cars)
  
• Bring it to your cleanings for inspection
  
• Replace yearly or if damaged
  

A worn or damaged mouthguard won’t protect your smile.

Signs You Need a New Mouthguard

• Cracks or visible damage
  
• Loose or poor fit
  
• Warping
  
• Foul odor
  
• Rough edges or sharp spots
  
• New dental work has changed your bite
  
• Difficulty keeping it in during play
  

Note: Athletes with orthodontics may need more frequent replacements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can kids get custom mouthguards?

Yes — and they’re highly recommended for kids in contact sports.

Can I wear a mouthguard with braces?

Yes — we can design a guard to fit over orthodontic brackets.

How long does a custom sports mouthguard last?

Typically 1–2 years depending on use, sport intensity, and growth.

Is it hard to breathe or talk with it in?

No — custom-fit guards are designed to be secure, breathable, and easy to speak through.

Why Choose Phoenix Dental for Sports Mouthguards?

• Dentist-made, athletic-grade materials
  
• Precision-molded for a secure, comfortable fit
  
• Long-lasting durability for active lifestyles
  
• Designed for protection — not just comfort
  
• Ideal for athletes with fillings, crowns, or braces
  
• Evaluated at every cleaning to ensure it still fits properly
  

We help you protect your smile — so you can focus on the game.

Conclusion

A custom sports mouthguard is one of the smartest and most affordable ways to prevent major dental trauma. Whether you're playing competitively or recreationally, your teeth deserve top-tier protection.

Call us at (813) 419-3808 or schedule online to get your custom-fit sports mouthguard from Phoenix Dental.