Sports Mouthguard: Does It Prevent Concussions?
Footy season is here, and whether you’re on the field tackling opponents or watching from the sidelines, you know how intense the game can get.
With the fast-paced action, hard hits, and unpredictable collisions, protecting yourself is just as important as scoring that winning goal.
A sports mouthguard is often considered essential protective gear, but does it do more than safeguard teeth? Can it help prevent concussions?
The Purpose of a Sports Mouthguard
You probably already know that a sports mouthguard protects your teeth, but it does more than shield your pearly whites from impact.
A well-designed mouthguard absorbs shock, distributes force, and lowers the possibility of harm to your jaw, cheeks, and lips.
A severe impact on the mouth or jaw can cause painful dental damage, including:
- Chipped or broken teeth – One bad tackle, and you could be looking at emergency dental work.
- Tooth loss – A direct hit could knock out a tooth completely.
- Cuts and lacerations – Your teeth can easily cut into your lips and cheeks upon impact.
- Jaw fractures – The force from a hit can travel through the jaw, causing serious injury.
A sports mouthguard acts as a cushion, softening the blow and preventing damage. But what about concussions?
Can a Sports Mouthguard Prevent Concussions?
This is where things get a little tricky. While mouthguards provide excellent protection for your teeth and jaw, their role in preventing concussions isn’t as straightforward.
The brain moves inside the skull after a sudden hit, resulting in a concussion. A severe fall, a direct impact to the head, or even a large knock to the jaw that transfers force upward can cause this.
Here’s what we know:
- Mouthguards help absorb shock, particularly from lower face and jaw blows.
- They can reduce the risk of indirect forces contributing to a concussion, such as a strong impact on the jaw that forces the head to snap backward or sideways.
- However, they do not directly prevent concussions caused by direct hits to the head.
Studies have shown mixed results regarding whether mouthguards significantly reduce concussion risk. While some research suggests that they might lower the severity of impact forces, they are not a guaranteed way to prevent brain injuries.
The Right Mouthguard Matters
Not all mouthguards are created equal. You’re not getting the best protection if you rely on a cheap, over-the-counter mouthguard.
Here’s what makes a difference:
- Custom-Fitted Mouthguards – A customised mouthguard is made especially for your teeth and bite, unlike generic ones you buy at the shop. It fits snugly, allowing for better shock absorption and comfort.
- Material and Thickness – High-quality materials provide better impact resistance. A well-constructed mouthguard absorbs force more effectively.
- Proper Fit—A mouthguard that is too loose or too tight will not provide the best protection and might even make breathing or speaking difficult.
A professionally made custom sports mouthguard offers superior protection to store-bought versions, maximising the chance of minimising injuries.
Beyond the Mouthguard: Reducing Concussion Risk
Since no mouthguard can fully prevent concussions, it’s essential to take other precautions:
- Wear a properly fitted helmet – If you play a sport requiring a helmet, ensure it fits well and is in good condition.
- Strengthen your neck muscles – Stronger neck muscles can help absorb some of the force from an impact, reducing the risk of excessive head movement.
- Practice proper technique. Good form can make a difference whether tackling, heading a ball, or bracing for impact.
- Be aware of concussion symptoms – If you or a teammate takes a hit and experiences dizziness, confusion, headaches, or nausea, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
While a sports mouthguard is essential to your protective gear, it should be used alongside other safety measures for the best possible defence against injuries.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip the Mouthguard
Even though a mouthguard isn’t a magic shield against concussions, it still plays a critical role in sports safety. It prevents painful dental injuries, reduces jaw trauma, and might even help lessen the severity of certain impacts.
Investing in a quality, custom-fitted sports mouthguard is brilliant if you’re serious about protecting yourself during the footy season—or any high-contact sport.
Think about it this way: You wouldn’t play without boots, shin guards, or a helmet if your sport required them. A mouthguard should be just as important.
After all, replacing a lost tooth or recovering from a jaw injury is much harder than simply wearing a mouthguard.
Custom Mouthguards in Wodonga
If you’re gearing up for the footy season, don’t wait until an injury happens to think about protection. A custom sports mouthguard can make all the difference in safeguarding your teeth, jaw, and overall well-being.
Book an appointment today at Prime Care Dental Wodonga to get your custom-fitted mouthguard and confidently step onto the field. Your smile—and your game—deserve the best protection possible!
Contact us at (02) 6024 1516 or visit 340 Beechworth Road in Wodonga.