Don’t Let a Dental Injury Bench You This Season!

March Madness is here, and basketball courts are heating up with fast-paced action! While athletes focus on jump shots and slam dunks, one crucial part of the game is often overlooked—protecting their teeth. Whether you're a high school athlete, weekend warrior, or simply cheering from the sidelines, a custom mouthguard can save your smile from serious injury.

At Cosmetic & Laser Dental Spa of Richmond, Dr. Sarah Wilmer and our team want to make sure athletes stay in the game—without dental emergencies. Let’s talk about why mouthguards are essential, the risks of playing without one, and how a custom-fit option offers superior protection.

Why Are Mouthguards So Important?

Basketball may not be a full-contact sport like football, but dental injuries are surprisingly common. A stray elbow, an accidental fall, or a fast-moving ball can lead to:

✅ Chipped or Broken Teeth – A hard impact can easily fracture enamel.

✅ Knocked-Out Teeth – An unexpected hit can result in losing a tooth entirely.

✅ Lip & Tongue Injuries – Biting down suddenly during impact can cause painful cuts.

✅ Jaw Injuries – A strong blow can cause misalignment or even a fractured jaw.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), athletes who don’t wear a mouthguard are 60 times more likely to suffer a dental injury. That’s a statistic you don’t want to ignore!

Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards: What’s the Best Choice?

While generic, store-bought mouthguards exist, they don’t provide the same level of comfort and protection as a custom-made mouthguard. Here’s why a custom-fit guard is the best investment for your smile:

🔹 Better Fit – No bulky, uncomfortable plastic; a dentist-made guard is designed for your bite.

🔹 Superior Protection – Helps absorb shock and minimizes trauma from direct impact.

🔹 Easier Breathing & Speaking – No struggling to talk or breathe like with over-the-counter versions.

🔹 Longer Lasting – Custom mouthguards are more durable and designed to withstand multiple seasons.

If you or your child plays basketball (or any other sport), investing in a custom-fitted mouthguard is one of the best ways to prevent painful and costly dental injuries.

Protect Your Smile – Schedule Your Custom Mouthguard Fitting Today!

📅 Call (804) 784-2386 to book an appointment or visit us at:

🏥 27 Briggs Drive, Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103

🌐 www.sarahwilmerdds.com

Don’t let a dental injury sideline your season—protect your smile and play with confidence. Book your custom mouthguard appointment today!

Final Pro Tip:

Remember, mouthguards aren’t just for basketball! If you or your child play soccer, football, lacrosse, hockey, or even gymnastics, a mouthguard is just as important. Protect your smile, no matter the sport!