Can You Use a Dental Guard as a Sports Guard? | ClearClub
Initially, one might think that there is no difference between dental guards and sports mouthguards since both appliances cover one's teeth. Nevertheless, despite the similarity of design, each device was created to perform certain tasks.
A dental guard is primarily made to protect against the effects of clenching and grinding, while a sports mouthguard is built to help cushion the impact of collisions, falls, and other sports-related contact.
This blog will help you know if a dental guard can work as a sports guard, the differences between the two, and what kind of protection is suitable for you.
📑 Table of Contents
Dental Guard vs. Sports Mouthguard: What's the Difference?
Dental guards and sports mouthguards appear the same, yet they have been designed to shield your teeth against completely different kinds of forces. Below is how dental guards and sports mouthguards differ in function and usage.
Dental Guard
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a dental guard is an oral device designed to protect the teeth from the effects of bruxism. Depending on the type of bruxism, dental guards may be worn during the day for awake bruxism or at night for sleep bruxism.
Other than preventing teeth grinding and clenching, dental guards might even be prescribed for individuals who have been suffering from extreme tooth wear and issues related to the jaws and TMJ. In essence, dental guards aim at protecting the teeth from the damaging effects of clenching and grinding.
Sports Mouthguard
A sports mouthguard is a protective oral appliance worn during sports and physical activities, particularly those involving contact, collisions, or a risk of impact to the mouth. The American Dental Association recommends mouthguards as an important part of an athlete's protective equipment because they can help reduce the risk of orofacial injuries.
Unlike dental guards, sports mouthguards are designed for the absorption and dispersion of impact forces outside the mouth. They protect the teeth and adjacent oral soft tissues from injuries during collisions, falls, or any other type of impact.
Not sure whether your favorite sport calls for a mouthguard? Check out our guide to 8 Sports You Should Never Play Without a Mouthguard to learn which activities carry a higher risk of dental injuries.
Dental Guard vs. Sports Mouthguard at a Glance
| Dental Guard | Sports Mouthguard | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary purpose | Protect teeth from grinding or clenching | Protect teeth and oral tissues from impact |
| Main force addressed | Repetitive bite pressure | Sudden external impact |
| Typical use | Daytime or nighttime | During sports or physical activity |
| Common users | People with bruxism or clenching | Athletes and active individuals |
| Impact protection | Not its primary function | Specifically designed for it |
| Key design priorities | Bite comfort, durability, tooth protection | Shock absorption, coverage, fit, and retention |
Can You Use a Dental Guard as a Sports Guard?
Generally, no. Collision and contact sports may pose some risks of impact to the athletes, such as hitting of the mouth and the jaw. This is why it is necessary for the athletes to use protective gear, which includes a good sports mouthguard.
Dental guards are designed for the repeated pressure caused by clenching and grinding, while sports mouthguards are designed to handle sudden external impacts. Because they serve different purposes, a dental guard should not be relied on for sports-related protection.
Can a sports mouthguard double as a dental guard? Find out whether it's safe to wear one while you sleep: Is It Safe to Wear a Sports Guard While You Sleep?
Get the Right Protection for Your Teeth
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Although dental guards and sports mouthguards may look alike, they are designated for different purposes. Selecting the correct equipment to suit your needs will also assist you in avoiding tooth damage that is preventable, especially when engaging in vigorous exercises. If you need effective protection in your sports, then you may want to consider ClearClub's Sports Mouthguard.
Keep your sports mouthguard fresh and ready for every game or workout with our renewal plan. Choose your preferred renewal schedule and have a fresh mouthguard delivered when you need it. Get the protection your teeth needs today.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can you use a dental guard as a sports mouthguard?
No, usually not. Dental guards or night guards are designed to protect your teeth from the effects of bruxism, while sports mouthguards are designed to cushion impacts and protect your teeth and mouth during physical activities.
❓ Can you wear a dental guard while playing sports?
A dental guard should not be relied on as a substitute for a sports mouthguard. If you participate in sports, use a mouthguard specifically designed to protect your teeth and mouth from impact.
❓ Do you need a mouthguard for non-contact sports?
A mouthguard may also be important for non-contact sports where there is a risk of falling or coming into contact with equipment that could cause an impact to the mouth.
Looking for something else? Check our full FAQ section.