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When it comes to sports, South African men are renowned for their energy, strength, and passion for competition. Whether it’s a weekend rugby game, five-a-side football, cycling, or martial arts, staying active plays a big role in many men’s lives. But while most athletes remember to gear up with proper shoes, helmets, or pads, one crucial piece of protection is often overlooked: the mouthguard.

Why Mouthguards Matter

A mouthguard is a soft, flexible device worn over the teeth that helps protect the mouth from injuries during impact. It cushions blows to the face, jaw, or head and reduces the risk of:

• Chipped or broken teeth
• Cut lips, cheeks, and tongue
• Jaw injuries or dislocation
• Tooth loss
• Concussions (by absorbing some shock)

According to the South African Dental Association (SADA), wearing a mouthguard can significantly lower the risk of sports-related dental injuries. Even in lower-impact sports, falls or collisions can happen fast, and without a mouthguard, a single knock could mean months of pain and thousands of rands in dental repairs.

Common Sports-Related Dental Injuries

Skipping a mouthguard leaves your teeth and jaw vulnerable. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Chipped or fractured teeth: Usually caused by falls or a direct blow.
• Avulsed (knocked-out) teeth: These require emergency dental care and may not always be saved.
• Root fractures: Can happen even if the tooth looks fine on the surface.
• Jaw fractures: Heavy impact can fracture the jaw, requiring surgical repair.

Most of these are preventable with the correct use of a well-fitted mouthguard.

Types of Mouthguards

There are three main types of mouthguards:

1. Stock mouthguards: Pre-made and available in most sports stores, they’re the cheapest but often bulky, ill-fitting, and offer the least protection.
2. Boil-and-bite mouthguards: Softened in hot water, then moulded to the teeth. These offer a better fit and protection than stock options and are widely used by amateur athletes.
3. Custom-fitted mouthguards: Made by a dentist to perfectly fit your mouth. These offer the best comfort and protection, which is especially important for high-impact sports or individuals with braces or dental work.

While stock options are widely accessible, custom-fitted mouthguards are recommended by dental professionals and sports safety experts for their superior fit and safety.

When Should You Wear a Mouthguard?

Any time there’s a risk of falls, contact, or collision, a mouthguard should be part of your kit. That includes:

• Rugby
• Soccer
• Hockey (field and ice)
• Boxing and martial arts
• Cycling
• Skateboarding
• Mountain biking
• Cricket (particularly for wicketkeepers and close fielders)
• Basketball and netball

Even in non-contact sports, unexpected contact can happen. Protecting your teeth is just as important as protecting your head or knees.

How to Care for Your Mouthguard

Mouthguards are effective only if they’re clean and in good condition. Here’s how to keep yours safe and hygienic:

• Rinse it with cold water before and after each use.
• Brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste regularly.
• Store it in a ventilated, protective case.
• Keep it away from heat to prevent warping.
• Check it for wear and tear and replace it when damaged or loose.

Final Thoughts

This Men’s Health Month, don’t just focus on muscles and fitness — protect your teeth too. Whether you’re a rugby player or cyclist or enjoy an active lifestyle, wearing a mouthguard is a simple step that can prevent serious injuries and save you pain and money.

And if the unexpected happens, having Affinity Dental cover gives you peace of mind. From emergency dental care to check-ups, fillings, and more, Affinity Dental offers affordable plans and access to quality care, so you can bounce back quickly and protect your winning smile.