Do You Really Need a Mouthguard for Sports? The Risks of Playing Without One

 
a dentist holding a mouthguard while telling the rist of playing sports without one
 

When it comes to playing sport, safety gear like helmets, shin guards, and padding are often seen as essential. But what about mouthguards? Many people still ask, "Do you really need a mouthguard for sports?" The simple answer is yes—if you want to protect your teeth, gums, and jaw from serious injury, a mouthguard is just as important as any other piece of protective equipment.

In this guide, we’ll explain why mouthguards are crucial, the risks of playing without one, and how a custom mouthguard offers the best protection.


Why Are Mouthguards Important in Sports?

Mouthguards are designed to cushion and protect the teeth, gums, tongue, and jaw during physical activities. They absorb and distribute the force of impacts, reducing the risk of serious injuries.

Sports that involve contact, speed, or risk of falls—including football, rugby, basketball, hockey, boxing, and even skateboarding—carry a high risk of mouth injuries.

Without a mouthguard, even a minor collision can cause significant damage. A custom-fitted mouthguard helps:

  • Prevent broken or knocked-out teeth.

  • Protect soft tissues like the tongue, cheeks, and lips.

  • Reduce the risk of jaw fractures and dislocations.

  • Lower the chances of concussion by cushioning the jaw during impacts.


The Risks of Playing Sports Without a Mouthguard

Skipping a mouthguard can lead to painful, costly, and sometimes permanent injuries. Here’s what’s at risk when you play unprotected:

1. Broken or Knocked-Out Teeth

A sudden blow to the mouth—whether from a ball, a collision, or a fall—can easily crack, chip, or knock out a tooth. Replacing a missing tooth can be expensive and time-consuming, often requiring crowns, implants, or bridges.


2. Cuts and Lacerations

Without a mouthguard, your lips, cheeks, and tongue are at higher risk of getting cut against sharp teeth during impact.


3. Jaw Injuries

Hard impacts can cause fractures, dislocations, or other injuries to the jawbone. These injuries can lead to long-term pain, difficulty chewing, and complex surgeries to repair.


4. Increased Risk of Concussions

There is evidence suggesting that mouthguards may help reduce the severity of concussions by cushioning the force that travels through the jaw to the brain.


Why Custom Mouthguards Offer the Best Protection

While boil-and-bite mouthguards from sports shops offer some protection, they can’t match the fit and effectiveness of a professionally made custom mouthguard.

Benefits of Custom Mouthguards:

  • Perfect Fit: Custom mouthguards are moulded exactly to your teeth, offering better comfort and security.

  • Better Protection: A snug fit ensures the mouthguard stays in place even during heavy contact.

  • Easier to Breathe and Speak: A well-fitted mouthguard doesn’t block airways or make it hard to communicate during a game.

  • Durable Materials: Professionally made mouthguards use high-quality materials that last longer and withstand heavy use.


Common Sports That Require Mouthguards

Some sports associations and schools now mandate the use of mouthguards for certain sports—and for good reason. If you or your child plays any of the following, a mouthguard is essential:

  • Rugby

  • AFL

  • Boxing

  • Martial arts

  • Basketball

  • Soccer

  • Hockey (field and ice)

  • Skateboarding and BMX

Even non-contact sports like netball and cricket can present risks during accidental collisions or falls.


Protect Your Teeth and Play with Confidence

So, do you really need a mouthguard for sports? Absolutely. Mouthguards aren’t just for boxers—they’re essential for anyone who wants to protect their teeth, gums, and jaw from serious injury during physical activities.

Choosing a custom mouthguard provides the best fit, the highest level of protection, and the greatest peace of mind so you can focus on performing at your best.

At Denture Haus, we create high-quality, custom-fitted mouthguards designed for comfort and maximum protection. Whether for school sports, weekend games, or professional competition, our expert team is here to help you stay safe and confident on the field.

Ready to protect your smile? Contact Denture Haus today to book your custom mouthguard fitting and get ready to play your best game safely!

 
Mitch Hills