5 Key Benefits of Custom Mouthguards for Optimal Athletic Performance

Athletes of all levels understand the importance of protecting their body during competition. While most people focus on helmets, pads, and other protective gear, the mouth is often overlooked. However, a custom sports mouthguard in Calgary can offer critical protection for your teeth, gums, and jaw during physical activity.

If you're an athlete looking to improve your performance and protect your oral health, working with a Calgary dentist to get a custom mouthguard is a smart investment. In this article, we'll explore the five key benefits of using a custom mouthguard and why it’s essential for peak performance in sports.

What Is a Custom Mouthguard?

A custom mouthguard is a protective device designed specifically for your mouth by a professional dentist. Unlike the generic, over-the-counter options available at stores, custom mouthguards are tailored to fit the unique shape and size of your teeth and gums, ensuring maximum comfort and protection.

Working with a Calgary dentist allows you to get a mouthguard that is both effective and comfortable, giving you the peace of mind to focus on your game.

1. Superior Protection Against Injury

The primary benefit of a custom sports mouthguard is its ability to protect your teeth and gums from injury. Sports, especially contact sports like football, hockey, and boxing, can put your oral health at risk. A custom mouthguard absorbs the shock from impacts, reducing the risk of cracked or knocked-out teeth, as well as protecting your lips and cheeks from cuts.

• Absorbs shock from impact

• Protects against tooth damage

• Prevents soft tissue injuries

2. Improved Comfort and Fit

Unlike stock mouthguards, which can be bulky and uncomfortable, a custom sports mouthguard in Calgary is designed to fit snugly around your teeth and gums. This customized fit ensures that the mouthguard stays in place during intense physical activity, without causing discomfort or distractions.

• Tailored fit for individual comfort

• No slipping or discomfort

• Better focus on performance

3. Enhanced Breathing and Speech

A custom mouthguard is designed to fit precisely, leaving enough space for you to breathe and speak freely. Over-the-counter mouthguards can be thick and restrict airflow, making it harder to breathe during physical exertion. With a custom guard, you’ll have better air circulation, improving your endurance and speech during games.

• Unrestricted airflow for better breathing

• Easier communication with teammates

• No interference with performance

4. Prevention of Jaw Injuries and Concussions

In addition to protecting your teeth, a custom mouthguard also helps to absorb and distribute the force of impacts to your jaw. This can reduce the risk of jaw fractures and other serious injuries. Furthermore, recent studies show that custom mouthguards can help prevent concussions by stabilizing the jaw during contact.

• Absorbs impact to the jaw

• Reduces concussion risks

• Protects against TMJ (temporomandibular joint) injuries

5. Long-Term Cost Savings

While custom mouthguards may come with a higher upfront cost compared to over-the-counter options, they are much more durable and effective. A well-fitted, durable mouthguard can last for years, which means you’ll save money over time by avoiding costly dental procedures to repair teeth that were damaged during sports.

• More durable than store-bought alternatives

• Helps prevent costly dental treatments

• Long-lasting protection

Why Choose a Custom Mouthguard from a Dentist?

When it comes to sports-related oral protection, there's no substitute for a custom mouthguard. Working with a Calgary dentist ensures that your mouthguard is designed specifically for your needs, offering the best protection and comfort possible. A well-fitted mouthguard can make all the difference in preventing injuries and allowing you to perform at your best.

Final Thoughts

A custom sports mouthguard is an essential tool for any athlete looking to enhance their performance and protect their oral health. Whether you’re playing in a contact sport or engaging in high-intensity training, a custom sports mouthguard in Calgary is a smart investment.

At Inglewood Family Dental in Calgary, we specialize in crafting custom mouthguards that provide superior protection and comfort. Our team of professionals will ensure that your mouthguard fits perfectly, giving you the confidence to focus on your game. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and get the protection you need for optimal performance.