Brier Creek 984-477-0177 | North Raleigh 984-206-4242 | Knightdale 984-733-0330 Locations Appointments

Protecting Your Smile on the Basketball Court

Posted on 4/11/2022 by Dr. Dani Stansell

Did you know that basketball is one of the most contact sports out there? Players can collide with each other, fall to the ground, and slam into the hardwood all during a game. While this makes for an exciting sport to watch, it can also be pretty dangerous if you're not careful. So here are a few tips on protecting your smile while playing basketball.

Wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from getting knocked out or fractured.

Mouthguards can help absorb the impact of a fall or collision and protect your teeth from getting chipped, cracked, or knocked out. Wearing a mouthguard is especially important if you have braces or other dental work that could be damaged in a fall.

Look for a mouthguard that's comfortable to wear and doesn't restrict your breathing. You want one that will stay in place while you're playing but isn't so bulky that it interferes with your game.

Custom vs. Store-bought mouthguard

A store-bought mouthguard will do the trick if you don't have braces or extensive dental work. However, if you have braces or extensive dental work, it's best to get a custom-made mouthguard from your orthodontist. A custom mouthguard will be made specifically for your teeth and fit snugly, so it doesn't move around when you're playing. It'll also provide more protection than a store-bought mouthguard.

A custom-made one is a great option even if you don't have work on your teeth. If you have a history of concussions, wearing a custom-made mouthguard is especially important. The fit will be more snug and secure, providing better protection for your brain in the event of a fall or collision.

How to care for your mouthguard

Mouthguards need to be cleaned after every use. First, rinse it off with cold water and mild soap, then let it air dry before storing it in a clean, dry place. Please don't put your mouthguard in hot water or expose it to extreme temperatures, as this can damage the material.

If you have a braces-specific mouthguard, follow the instructions from your orthodontist on how to care for it. Some braces-specific mouthguards need to be soaked in special solutions to prevent them from getting damaged or stained. Also, remember to replace your mouthguard every year or sooner if it becomes damaged.

Mouthguards can be a lifesaver on the basketball court, so make sure you wear one every time you play. Protect your smile and stay safe! If you have any questions about mouthguards or want to schedule an appointment for a custom-made mouthguard, please give our office a call. We'd be happy to help!

Locations & Hours

Brier Creek

9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204
Raleigh, NC 27617-4879

Phone: 984-477-0177
Fax: 919-249-1375

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

North Raleigh

1911 Falls Valley Drive, Ste 107
Raleigh, NC 27615

Phone: 984-206-4242
Fax: 919-249-2145

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Knightdale

1101 Great Falls Ct, Ste 102
Knightdale, NC 27545

Phone: 984-733-0330
Fax: 919-415-1849

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Stansell Dentistry Associates, 9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204, Raleigh, NC 27617-4879 : 984-477-0177 : stanselldentistry.com : 9/8/2024 : Related Terms: dentist Raleigh NC :