Call Us
03
Jan
Tooth Protection and Winter Sports
Just because it’s cold out there doesn’t mean you’ll give up keeping fit and active! Winter is the season for some of our favorite team sporting activities, and when you’re donning your protective gear, don’t forget to protect your teeth as well.
- Basketball
This sport actually tallies one of the highest counts of dental injuries. Running, jumping, and diving for the ball on an unforgiving court can lead to tooth and jaw injuries. And for every ten men on the floor, it seems like there at least 50 flailing elbows in the paint.
- Hockey
Notorious for the toll it takes on teeth, hockey is a game of sticks, ice, and whizzing pucks. And when your sport’s penalties include the terms hooking, slashing, and tripping, the more protection, the better.
- Skiing
When you are flying down the slopes, combining powdery snow and speed, mouth protection is a good idea. This also applies to snowboarding and other snow sports.
- Wrestling
Grappling and pinning in close quarters can lead to unintended injuries after accidental contact with the mat or your opponent.
Different uniforms, different equipment, and different playing fields, but all these sports have one thing in common—the easiest way to protect your teeth while playing them is with a mouth guard.
Mouthguards generally come in three forms:
- Over the counter, ready-made appliances. These are available in drugstores and sporting goods stores, but might not be a comfortable fit as they are pre-formed sizes.
- The “boil-and-bite” option is a mouthguard form placed in hot water. You then bite down to shape it to your mouth and teeth.
- Custom mouthguards can be fabricated just for you through our Lincoln, Nebraska office. These appliances are designed to fit your individual mouth and teeth, so provide a better fit and better protection. They are also usually more durable and more comfortable. If you wear braces, you definitely need a custom mouthguard to prevent an injury to your mouth or braces caused by an ill-fitting appliance.
Whether you play on a team or pursue individual athletic activities, keeping safe as you keep fit is your first priority. We would be happy to discuss your mouthguard options for any sport, any time of year.
Share this Article
Robin Post, D.D.S.
Dr. Robin Post graduated from Southeast Community College’s Dental Assisting Program and began her dental career in 1989. Following three years of full-time work, she pursued her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the UNMC College of Dentistry, graduating in 1998. Practicing in Lincoln, Nebraska, Dr. Post is dedicated to lifelong learning and sharing her knowledge to promote optimal oral health. She is passionate about helping patients achieve healthy, lasting smiles in a caring and supportive environment.
Chris Post, D.D.S.
Dr. Chris Post transitioned to dentistry from a previous career in law, driven by a genuine desire to help others. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the UNMC College of Dentistry in 2009 and has since dedicated himself to providing compassionate, patient-focused care. Known for his commitment to enhancing oral health, Dr. Post strives to make a positive impact in each patient’s life through quality dental care and a supportive approach.