Fall sports bring energy and excitement to communities across Washington, but they also come with significant risks to your teeth and jaw. Yes, you should absolutely get a mouth guard if you or your child plays any contact or collision sport this season. Even low-impact activities can result in dental injuries without proper protection.
At Burien Signature Dentistry, we believe in a conservative and preventative approach to oral health. Dr. Andy Kim and our team help families throughout Burien protect their smiles during sports seasons with custom-fitted mouth guards designed for maximum comfort and protection. We want you to enjoy fall activities while keeping your dental health secure.
Why Mouth Guards Matter in Fall Sports
Football, soccer, field hockey, and lacrosse dominate Washington’s fall sports calendar, and each carries potential for dental trauma. Even athletes who think their sport is safe may face unexpected contact during gameplay. A single collision can chip, crack, or knock out a tooth completely.
The impact extends beyond your teeth. Your jaw, lips, tongue, and soft tissues all face risk during sports activities. A quality mouth guard absorbs shock and distributes force across the protective barrier rather than directly into your mouth. This protection becomes particularly important for young athletes whose permanent teeth are still developing and whose facial structures continue to grow.
Many parents wonder whether store-bought options provide adequate protection. While any mouth guard offers more safety than none, custom-fitted guards from your dentist deliver superior results. They fit precisely to your unique dental structure, stay secure during intense activity, and allow comfortable breathing and speaking throughout games and practices.
Types of Mouth Guards Available
Athletes can choose from three main categories of mouth guards, each offering different levels of protection and comfort. Stock mouth guards come pre-formed and ready to wear, but rarely fit properly. You simply place them in your mouth and hope they stay put, which often doesn’t happen during vigorous movement.
Boil-and-bite guards represent the middle ground you’ll find at most sporting goods stores. You soften them in hot water, place them in your mouth, and bite down to create a basic impression. While better than stock options, these guards still lack the precise fit needed for optimal protection and comfort during extended wear.
Custom-fitted mouth guards from your dentist provide the highest level of protection available. We take detailed impressions of your teeth and create a guard specifically designed for your mouth’s unique contours. The result fits securely, feels comfortable, and offers maximum shock absorption when you need it most. Athletes who switch to custom guards consistently report they’re easier to wear for full games and practices.
Getting Your Custom Mouth Guard
The process of obtaining a custom mouth guard at our practice takes just two simple visits. During your first appointment, we examine your teeth and jaw alignment, then we take a digital scan for the impression of the upper and lower teeth so there is no need for a gooey impression. We discuss your specific sport and any particular concerns you have about fit or comfort.
Your custom guard arrives within about a week, crafted from durable materials selected specifically for athletic protection. At your second visit, we ensure the fit feels comfortable and secure, make any necessary adjustments, and provide detailed instructions for proper care and maintenance. You’ll leave ready to get back on the field with confidence in your dental protection.
We create guards suitable for athletes of all ages, from elementary students just starting organized sports to adult recreational players. Dr. Andy Kim graduated from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine in 2017 and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry program, giving him extensive experience in preventative dental care. He understands how proper protection now prevents costly dental work later.
Caring for Your Mouth Guard
Your mouth guard requires regular cleaning to remain effective and hygienic throughout the season. Rinse it with cool water immediately after each use, then brush it gently with your toothbrush and toothpaste. Allow it to air dry completely before storing it in its protective case. Never leave your guard in direct sunlight or hot environments, as heat can warp the material and compromise its fit.
Inspect your mouth guard regularly for signs of wear, including tears, holes, or areas that have become thin. Athletes who grind their teeth at night or clench during intense competition may wear through guards more quickly than others. Bring your guard to dental checkups so we can assess whether it still provides adequate protection or needs replacement.
Replace your mouth guard at the start of each sports season or sooner if you notice damage. Growing children and teens may need new guards more frequently as their teeth shift and jaws develop. Adults with stable dental structures typically use the same guard for a full season before requiring a replacement.
Protect Your Smile With Burien Signature Dentistry
Fall sports offer wonderful opportunities for physical activity, teamwork, and personal growth, but dental injuries can sideline athletes and create lasting problems. Taking the preventative step of getting a properly fitted mouth guard protects your investment in your family’s oral health. The small time commitment now prevents emergency dental visits and expensive restorative procedures later.
Dr. Andy Kim and our team at Burien Signature Dentistry prioritize creating a positive experience for both our staff and patients while delivering quality dental care throughout the Burien community. We accept all major PPO insurance plans and offer Cherry financing to make protective dental care accessible for every family. Contact our office today to schedule your custom mouth guard fitting before the next game.
