Play Hard, Smile Longer: What Sports Should You Wear a Mouthguard For?

If you play any sport that involves contact or the risk of a fall, your smile is at risk. A custom mouthguard can protect your teeth, gums, and jaw from serious injuries. But which sports call for this essential piece of equipment—and why should every athlete consider wearing one?

High-Contact Sports: The Biggest Risks

Any sport that involves direct physical contact carries a significant risk of injury to your mouth. Football, hockey, rugby, lacrosse, and boxing are the most obvious examples. Players are constantly at risk of collisions, falls, or being struck by equipment. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends mouthguards for all of these activities, as they dramatically reduce the chance of broken teeth, lip lacerations, and jaw fractures.

Even with helmets and face shields, the force of impact can cause the teeth to clash together. A mouthguard cushions this blow, absorbing shock and keeping your smile safe during intense gameplay.

Moderate-Contact Sports: Don’t Skip Protection

Many athletes overlook the need for a mouthguard in sports like basketball, soccer, or baseball. While these activities aren’t categorized as “full contact,” they still present plenty of opportunities for accidental hits to the face. An elbow under the hoop, a ball to the mouth, or a fall on the field can cause just as much damage as a tackle.

According to sports medicine experts, athletes in these sports experience high rates of chipped or knocked-out teeth—injuries that are often preventable with a properly fitted mouthguard. It’s a simple investment that can save you from costly dental repairs later on.

Individual and Recreational Sports: Unexpected Risks

You might not think of wearing a mouthguard while mountain biking, skateboarding, surfing, or skiing, but these activities come with their own hazards. A sudden fall or collision with hard surfaces can lead to dental trauma, even if you’re wearing a helmet. The ADA lists these and other recreational sports—like gymnastics, martial arts, and volleyball—as activities where mouthguards are strongly encouraged.

If your favorite pastime involves speed, balance, or equipment that could hit your face, a mouthguard is a smart precaution. Custom-fitted guards are particularly helpful because they stay in place even when you’re moving vigorously or talking, unlike bulky over-the-counter versions.

The Benefits of Wearing a Mouthguard

Beyond protecting your teeth, mouthguards help prevent jaw fractures, soft tissue injuries, and even concussions by absorbing and redistributing impact forces. Athletes also report feeling more confident when they know their smile is protected, allowing them to focus on performance instead of potential injury.

Plus, a mouthguard can preserve more than just your teeth—it safeguards your overall oral health. A single impact can cause long-term complications, such as nerve damage or tooth loss, so prevention is always better than repair.

A good rule of thumb? If your sport involves potential contact with another player, a hard surface, or fast-moving equipment, wear a mouthguard every time you play.

About the Practice

Game on at Drennan Family Dentistry of Fort Worth, where patients of all ages receive preventive care designed to protect their smiles for life. Dr. Drennan and Dr. Carlson offer custom-made mouthguards for athletes in every sport, ensuring a comfortable fit and maximum protection. To learn more about custom athletic mouthguards and other preventive services, visit us for a consultation.

Call us at (817) 732-5522 or request an appointment online.