Sports and Smiles: Why Every Athlete Needs a Mouthguard

Whether you’re playing football under Friday night lights, hitting the basketball court, or biking down Colorado trails, one thing all athletes have in common is the need to protect their smiles. As your trusted dentist in Grand Junction, Dr. Birch explains why mouthguards are a must-have for athletes of all ages.

Why Mouthguards Matter

Sports are one of the leading causes of dental injuries. From chipped teeth to knocked-out molars, accidents can happen in a split second. A mouthguard acts as a cushion, absorbing the impact and protecting your teeth, gums, and jaw from serious damage.

Without one, athletes are at risk for:

• Broken or chipped teeth

• Knocked-out teeth

• Cuts to the lips, tongue, or cheeks

• Jaw injuries

• Costly emergency dental visits

Who Should Wear a Mouthguard?

The short answer: anyone playing sports!

Mouthguards aren’t just for contact sports like football, hockey, and wrestling. They’re also recommended for athletes who play basketball, soccer, baseball, volleyball, mountain biking, and even gymnastics.

If there’s a chance of falling, collision, or getting hit in the mouth, a mouthguard should be part of your uniform.

Types of Mouthguards

Not all mouthguards are created equal. Here’s what you should know:

• Stock Mouthguards: Pre-formed and inexpensive, but often uncomfortable and less protective.

• Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Molded at home using hot water. Better than stock, but not always a perfect fit.

• Custom-Fit Mouthguards: Made by your dentist for the best fit, comfort, and protection. These offer superior safety and are especially recommended for athletes who play regularly.

At Aaron Birch Family Dentistry, we create custom mouthguards that protect your smile without interfering with performance.

What to Expect When Getting a Custom Mouthguard

Getting a custom mouthguard is simple and quick:

1. Impression: We’ll take a mold of your teeth to ensure a perfect fit.

2. Fabrication: Your mouthguard is crafted with durable materials tailored to your bite.

3. Fitting: We’ll check the fit and make any adjustments needed.

The result? A comfortable, long-lasting mouthguard that lets you focus on the game—not your teeth.

Protecting Smiles in Grand Junction

Every athlete knows the importance of helmets, pads, and proper gear. But your smile deserves protection too. A custom mouthguard from Aaron Birch Family Dentistry is a smart investment in your oral health and your athletic future.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Don’t wait until an accident happens. Protect your teeth now with a custom-fit mouthguard. Contact Aaron Birch Family Dentistry—your trusted dentist in Grand Junction—to schedule an appointment today.

📞 Call [phone number] or request an appointment online to get started.