Protecting Your Smile This Summer: Mouthguards for Every Athlete

Summer means longer days, warmer weather, and for many families—sports season. Whether it's flag football, baseball, lacrosse, or intense training camps, one thing should never be left off your athlete’s checklist: a properly fitted mouth guard.

Why Mouthguards Matter

Contact and high-impact sports carry a real risk of dental injury—from chipped or knocked-out teeth to jaw trauma. Fortunately, a football mouth guard or a custom-fit athletic guard can make all the difference. Designed to absorb impact, mouthguards help protect not only teeth but also the jaw, lips, and even reduce the risk of concussions.

Even athletes who don’t play full-contact sports may benefit—think cyclists, skateboarders, skiers, or cheerleaders. Any sport with a risk of falls or collisions calls for a little extra protection.

What About TMJ?

If your child (or you!) struggle with jaw pain, clenching, or grinding, sports may aggravate the issue. A TMJ mouth guard—which is typically worn at night or during high-stress activity—can help relieve pressure on the jaw joint and prevent additional wear on the teeth.

Keeping Your Mouthguard Clean

Wondering how to clean your mouth guard? It’s an important step many forget—but it makes a big difference in preventing bacteria buildup and keeping that fresh-mouth feeling:

• Rinse thoroughly with cool water after each use
• Brush gently with a toothbrush and mild soap (avoid toothpaste—it can be abrasive)
• Soak occasionally in a denture or retainer cleaning solution
• Always store in a ventilated case, away from heat and direct sunlight
• Never share mouthguards or leave them uncleaned in a sports bag

And don't forget—mouthguards can wear down or warp over time. If your child is growing or has had dental work recently, it's a good idea to check that their guard still fits properly. We can take a look and recommend a replacement if needed.

Game Plan: Schedule a Fitting

At Old Bridge Dental®, we offer custom-fit athletic and TMJ mouth guards designed for durability, comfort, and optimal protection. Whether you're gearing up for football season or looking to prevent jaw pain from summer stress, we're here to help you stay protected.

Call us at (732) 967-2214 to schedule a custom mouthguard fitting before the season gets rolling!
Let’s keep your smile safe, both on and off the field.