Do Mouthguards Enhance Performance in Sports?
In sports and physical activities, protection gear like helmets, knee pads, and shin guards is often deemed essential for safety.
However, mouthguards are another crucial protective gear that frequently goes unnoticed but significantly enhances performance.
Mouthguards aren’t just for preventing dental injuries; they can also improve performance and overall well-being during active play.
The Overlooked Importance of Mouthguards
In the rush of excitement to jump into the game, many athletes overlook the significance of wearing a mouthguard.
It might seem like, “I’ll watch out,” or “I’ve never gotten hurt,” but accidents can happen to anyone at any time.
If you play rough sports or do activities where you might fall or crash into something, there’s a big chance you could hurt your teeth. You might chip or break them, or even worse, break your jaw.
Not wearing a mouthguard could cause severe pain, money spent fixing your teeth, and permanent problems.
Moreover, beyond just physical injury, dental trauma can have psychological effects as well.
A knocked-out tooth can impact an individual’s self-confidence, affecting their performance on and off the field.
Additionally, the financial burden of dental procedures to repair injuries can be significant, especially for amateur athletes or those without adequate insurance coverage.
How Custom Mouthguards Enhance Performance
Modern sports science has shown that mouthguards do more than protect your teeth. They can enhance an athlete’s overall performance. Let’s take a look at how they contribute to better gameplay:
1. Improved Breathing
Mouthguards, especially those designed for sports performance, are crafted for optimal airflow.
Mouthguards can enhance breathing efficiency during physical exertion by keeping the airway open and unobstructed.
This improved airflow can translate to increased endurance and stamina, giving athletes a competitive edge on the field or court.
2. Shock Absorption and Injury Prevention
Another significant benefit of mouthguards is their ability to act as a protective cushion.
Mouthguards are crucial when you’re engaged in sports or physical activities that involve risks of blows or collisions to the face and jaw.
They effectively absorb the impact force, spreading it out to minimise its effect on your teeth, mouth, and jaw.
By dispersing the force of impact, mouthguards reduce the likelihood of dental injuries and lower the risk of more severe consequences like concussions.
This shock-absorbing feature ensures you can confidently engage in your chosen activities, knowing that your mouthguard provides extra protection against unexpected impacts.
3. Stabilising Jaw Alignment and Reduced Fatigue
When properly fitted, mouthguards protect teeth and play a crucial role in stabilising the jaw.
This alignment ensures better breathing and reduces fatigue during intense physical activities.
These mouthguards improve endurance and overall performance by optimising airflow and minimising strain on your jaw.
4. Enhanced Focus and Mental Clarity
The fear of potential injuries can often weigh heavily on an athlete’s mind, hindering their ability to focus entirely on their performance.
However, with the added protection of mouthguards, athletes can approach their activities with greater confidence and assurance.
Protecting their teeth and mouths allows athletes to concentrate fully on their sport without worrying about dental accidents.
Thanks to this increased attention, athletes can maximise their potential on the field or court by performing at their best.
5. Improved Confidence
Confidence is crucial in sports performance; wearing a mouthguard can significantly boost it.
Knowing your teeth and mouth are well-protected, you naturally feel more confident on the field or court.
This increased confidence empowers you to play with greater aggression and assertiveness, allowing you to unleash your potential fully.
As a result, you’re more likely to take risks, make bold moves, and excel in your sport, ultimately leading to greater success and achievement.
Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards: What’s Best for Performance?
While any mouthguard is better than none, not all offer the same protection and performance enhancement level.
There are three main types:
- Stock Mouthguards are ready to wear and pre-formed; they frequently fit poorly, making it difficult to talk and breathe. They offer minimal protection and are not ideal for serious athletes.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards—These are slightly better than stock mouthguards, as they mould to the shape of your teeth when softened in hot water. However, they still lack a custom fit and may not provide the best comfort or protection.
- Custom-Fitted Mouthguards – Made by dental professionals, these are designed to perfectly fit your teeth and jaw. They offer superior protection, comfort, and performance benefits, making them the best option for athletes who take their sport seriously.
Investing in a custom mouthguard is the smartest choice for those looking to maximise their athletic performance.
Prioritise Your Oral Health with Custom Mouthguards in Gordon
At Northern Dental Gordon, we understand the importance of oral health in overall well-being and athletic performance.
We aim to deliver outstanding dental care in a comfortable and friendly environment, ensuring our patients enjoy active lifestyles without worrying about dental injuries.
Our comprehensive dental services include custom-fitted mouthguards designed to offer optimal protection and performance enhancement for athletes of all levels.
Whether you play sports for fun on weekends or are a serious athlete, we’re here to take care of your teeth and gums. We’ll help you keep your mouth healthy to perform your best on or off the field.
Visit your Gordon dentist today!
Contact us at (02) 9498 8290 or book an online appointment.
We are located at Suite 3, 2 St Johns Ave in Gordon.
Don’t let dental injuries hold you back from reaching your full potential. Prioritise your oral health and performance with Northern Dental Gordon.
Let’s work together to keep your smile healthy and shiny so you can do your best in sports and activities.