Soccer is a high-impact sport involving much running, jumping, and physical contact. While it’s an exciting game to watch and play, it can also be dangerous, especially when it comes to protecting your teeth and jaw. That’s where soccer mouth guards come in. A soccer mouth guard is a protective device that’s worn over the teeth to help prevent injury during games and practices.
In this blog, we’ll explore some tips for players and parents on how to choose the right mouth guard for soccer.
Why Wear a Soccer Mouth Guard?
Before we dive into the tips for choosing a soccer mouth guard, let’s talk about why wearing one is so important. Soccer is a touching base game, which means that soccer players are at high risk of getting knocked out in the mouth or face by a soccer ball or another soccer player’s body. Without a mouth guard, these impacts can cause serious dental injuries, such as broken, chipped, or knocked-out teeth and cuts and bruises to the lips and tongue.
In addition to protecting the teeth and mouth, a soccer mouth guard can also help prevent concussions and other head injuries. This is because the mouth guard for soccer players acts as a shock absorber, reducing the force of impact when the head is hit.
Tips to Pick the Accurate Soccer Mouth Guard
Now that we’ve established the importance of wearing a soccer mouth guard, let’s discuss how to choose the right one. Here are some tips for players and parents to consider:
Consult with Your Dentist or Orthodontist
Before selecting a soccer mouth guard, it’s good to contact your dentist or orthodontist. They can provide valuable guidance on what type of mouth guard would be best for your specific needs, taking into account factors such as the shape of your teeth, the alignment of your jaw, and any previous dental work you’ve done.
Determine Your Level of Play
The level of soccer you’re playing will also impact what type of mouth guard you should choose. For example, a recreational player may not need as much protection as a professional player who’s playing at a higher level of competition. So don’t forget to consider the level of the game and the likelihood of contact when choosing a mouthguard.
Consider the Type of Mouth Guard
There are three main types of mouth guards for soccer: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-fit. Here’s a breakdown of each:
- Stock Mouth Guards: These are pre-made mouthguards that come in a limited range of sizes and are ready to wear right out of the package. They’re the least expensive and can be prickly to wear.
- Boil & Bite Mouth Guards: These mouth guards can be customized to fit the shape of your teeth by boiling mouth guards in water and then, after that, biting down on mouth guards. They provide a well fit than stock mouth guards and are still relatively inexpensive.
- Custom-Fit Mouth Guards: These are custom-made mouth guards to fit your teeth and mouth. The personalized mouth guards offer the uppermost protection and comfort but are also the most expensive option.
Look for a Comfortable Fit
Comfort fit is a significant thing to consider when selecting a soccer mouth guard. A mouthguard that’s too tight or loose can be uncomfortable to wear and even cause more harm than good. Look for a mouth guard that fits snugly over your teeth and doesn’t move around or shift during play.
Consider the Material
Soccer mouthguards are typically made from three types of materials: rubber, silicone, and polyurethane. Rubber mouthguards are the least expensive but offer the least protection. Silicone mouth guards are very expensive but provide a better fit and extra protection.
Polyurethane mouthguards are the most expensive but offer the highest level of protection and are durable and long-lasting. Always look for material which material best fits your needs and budget.
Check for Approval from Sports Organizations
Some soccer leagues and organizations have specific requirements for mouthguards. For instance, the NFHS requires that mouthguards used in high school soccer meet certain safety standards. Check with your league or organization to see if they have any particular requirements for mouth guards.
Replace Your Mouth Guard as Needed
Finally, it’s important to replace your soccer mouth guard as needed. Mouthguards can become worn out and lose effectiveness over time, so check them regularly for signs of wear and tear. If your mouth guard is cracked, has holes, or has become misshapen, it’s time for a replacement.
Conclusion
A soccer mouth guard is crucial for protecting your teeth, jaw, and head during games and practices. When choosing a mouth guard, consider factors such as your level of play, the type of mouth guard, the material, and the fit.
Consult with your dentist or orthodontist for personalized advice, and check with your league or organization for any specific requirements. By following these amazing tips, you can choose the right mouthguard to help keep you safe and protected on the field.
