Why Do I Need a Mouth Guard?
A mouth guard acts as a cushion if you’re hit in the face or take a fall, absorbing much of the impact to protect your teeth from damage. It also shields your tongue and lips from accidental cuts during contact or high-energy activities.
At SoBe Dentist, we often recommend custom mouth guards as a simple, effective way to support healthier smiles in Miami Beach. They’re especially helpful for those who play football, basketball, or soccer—or enjoy activities like skateboarding and cycling, where sudden impacts or falls are possible.
Even people who lift weights or run can benefit if they tend to clench their teeth during exertion. Preventing this kind of wear and tear goes a long way toward maintaining strong, durable teeth for years to come.
Risks of Not Wearing a Mouth Guard
Skipping a mouth guard may not seem serious, but even one accident can cause lasting damage. Without protection, your teeth are more vulnerable to chips, cracks, or being knocked loose during sports or falls. These injuries often require restorative treatments such as crowns, root canals, or dental implants to repair.
Beyond tooth damage, a strong blow to the mouth or jaw can lead to cuts, jaw strain, or even TMJ-related pain. Those who clench or grind their teeth while exercising may also wear down enamel over time, leading to sensitivity or fractures.
Wearing a properly fitted mouth guard is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent these problems and protect your overall oral health.
How a Sports Mouth Guard Differs from Other Oral Appliances
Although a sports mouth guard, night guard, and TMJ splint may look similar, each has a unique purpose and design.
A sports mouth guard is made from thicker, shock-absorbing material that cushions your teeth and jaw from sudden impacts. Its goal is physical protection—not to reposition the jaw or treat a condition.
A night guard for bruxism prevents tooth wear and damage from clenching or grinding during sleep. It’s thinner, smoother, and creates a barrier between the upper and lower teeth rather than absorbing external force.
A TMJ bite splint or oral appliance is made to improve jaw alignment, relieve strain on the temporomandibular joints, and relax overworked facial muscles. These are therapeutic devices prescribed for jaw-related discomfort.
Similarly, oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea uses a custom-fitted device to gently reposition the jaw and tongue, keeping the airway open during sleep. Unlike a sports mouth guard, this appliance is part of a medical treatment plan to improve breathing and reduce snoring.
At SoBe Dentist, we help patients understand these differences and choose the right device—whether it’s for sports protection, teeth grinding, TMJ treatment, or better sleep.
Why You Should Invest in a Custom Mouth Guard vs. Store-Bought
Store-bought mouth guards may seem convenient, but they can’t match the protection or comfort of a custom-fit guard. Because over-the-counter versions are mass-produced, they often fit poorly, feel bulky, or make it harder to breathe and speak during activity. An improper fit can also limit impact absorption and reduce overall protection.
A custom sports mouth guard from SoBe Dentist is made precisely for your teeth and bite. Using detailed impressions, we craft a guard that fits securely and comfortably—so you can focus on your performance, not your equipment. The precise fit enhances shock absorption, prevents irritation, and stays firmly in place.
It’s important to remember that not all dental appliances are interchangeable. A sports guard is for impact protection, while night guards prevent grinding and oral appliances for TMJ or sleep apnea improve jaw function and breathing. Using the wrong type can affect both comfort and results.
Investing in a custom sports mouth guard is a smart, long-term choice for your dental health—helping you enjoy healthier smiles in Miami Beach for years to come.
Get Custom Mouth Guards in Miami Beach
If you or your child need a mouth guard to stay protected while playing sports, consider a custom mouth guard from SoBe Dentist in Miami Beach. Contact our office to learn how a custom-fit guard can keep your smile safe, comfortable, and ready for every game.
Call (305) 535-2225 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Escoto or Dr. Mantovani today.
