Basketball season is in full swing, and whether you’re playing recreational basketball, cheering on your favorite team during March Madness, or watching the NBA, now is the perfect time to talk about protecting your smile on the court. Many people don’t realize that basketball is considered a contact sport, and dental injuries are more common than you might think.

Basketball and Dental Injuries: What You Need to Know

While basketball might not seem as rough as football or hockey, players face serious risks of dental injuries. An elbow to the face during a rebound, an unexpected collision under the basket, or even a stray ball can result in a knocked-out tooth, chipped tooth, or cracked tooth. Lip injuries are also extremely common in basketball, and these accidents can turn a fun game into a dental emergency in seconds.

The American Dental Association reports that athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer harm to their teeth when not wearing protective gear. That’s a significant risk that’s easily preventable with the right protection.

Do You Need a Mouthguard for Basketball?

This is a question we hear often at My Family Dentist. While mouthguards aren’t required equipment for school basketball or most recreational leagues, they absolutely should be. A sports mouthguard is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent serious dental damage, and the investment is minimal compared to the cost of repairing or replacing damaged teeth.

If you’re serious about how to protect your teeth during basketball, wearing a mouthguard should be your first line of defense. This small piece of equipment provides crucial dental protection for sports and can save you from painful injuries and expensive dental work.

Choosing the Best Mouthguard for Basketball Players

Not all mouthguards are created equal. Here are your main options:

  • Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-formed and ready to wear, but they typically offer a poor fit, making breathing and speaking difficult during play.
  • Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These can be softened in hot water and molded to your teeth at home. They offer a better fit than stock options and are widely available at sporting goods stores.
  • Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: These are made by your dentist from an impression of your teeth. They provide the best protection, a comfortable fit, and don’t interfere with breathing or speaking during the game.

At My Family Dentist, Dr. Marsh can create a custom-fitted mouthguard specifically designed for your mouth. These professional mouthguards offer superior upper teeth protection and are far more comfortable than over-the-counter options, which means you’re more likely to wear them consistently.

Mouthguard Care and Maintenance

Once you have your mouthguard for basketball, proper care is essential. Rinse it with cool water or mouthwash after each use, store it in a ventilated container, and keep it away from heat. Regularly inspect your mouthguard for wear and tear. If you notice any damage or if it becomes loose-fitting, it’s time to replace your mouthguard to ensure continued protection.

Don’t forget to bring your mouthguard to your regular teeth cleaning appointments so Dr. Marsh can check its condition and fit.

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Even with protection, accidents can happen. If you experience a dental emergency on the court, knowing the steps for saving a knocked-out tooth can make the difference between saving and losing it. Rinse the tooth gently, try to place it back in the socket if possible, or keep it moist in milk or saliva. Then call our emergency dentist line at (928) 282-3246 immediately.

Don’t let basketball season put your smile at risk. Contact My Family Dentist in Sedona today to discuss your options for dental protection during sports!