Summer is peak season for outdoor sports—baseball, basketball, soccer, skateboarding, biking, and everything in between. It’s also peak season for dental injuries. One hard fall, stray ball, or accidental elbow can turn a fun day into an emergency dental visit in seconds.



At Towson Dental Group, Dr. Joseph Chung often reminds families that many sports-related dental injuries are preventable. The simplest protection? A properly fitted mouthguard.

Why Summer Sports Increase Dental Injuries

With school out, kids and teens spend more time in active play, often in fast-paced or contact sports. Unlike organized school athletics, summer activities may not always require protective gear—which increases the risk of:

• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Knocked-out teeth
• Lip, tongue, or cheek injuries
• Jaw strain or fractures in severe cases

Even “non-contact” sports can lead to unexpected collisions.

Why Mouthguards Are So Important

A mouthguard acts like a cushion between your teeth and sudden impact. It absorbs shock and helps distribute force, significantly reducing the risk of serious injury.

Benefits include:

• Protecting teeth from fractures or loss
• Reducing soft tissue injuries (lips, cheeks, tongue)
• Helping stabilize the jaw during impact
• Lowering the risk of costly emergency dental treatment

For kids and teens especially, mouthguards are one of the easiest ways to prevent long-term dental damage.

Store-Bought vs. Custom Mouthguards

Not all mouthguards offer the same level of protection.

• Boil-and-bite guards offer basic protection but may not fit securely
• Custom-fitted mouthguards from a dentist provide better comfort, durability, and protection

A properly fitted guard is more likely to be worn consistently—and that makes all the difference.

When Should Kids Wear a Mouthguard?

Mouthguards are recommended for:

• Baseball and softball
• Soccer and basketball
• Skateboarding, biking, and scootering
• Any recreational activity with risk of falling or impact

If there’s a chance of contact or a fall, a mouthguard is a smart choice.

Sports Dentistry Matters

Preventing injuries is always easier than repairing them. That’s where sports dentistry plays a key role—protecting smiles before damage happens and helping athletes stay active and confident.

If you’re searching for a trusted sports dentist Towson MD, routine dental checkups are also a great time to discuss whether a custom mouthguard is right for your child.

Protect the Smile Before the Season Heats Up

A single moment on the field or court can lead to lasting dental damage—but the right protection can prevent it. Mouthguards are a simple, affordable way to keep smiles safe all summer long.

Towson Dental Group is here to help families protect their smiles with preventive care and custom recommendations for active patients of all ages.

📍 Towson Dental Group

Call: (410) 823-0044

Email: TowsonDentalGroup@gmail.com

Schedule an appointment today to learn more about mouthguard protection and sports dentistry options with Dr. Joseph Chung and the Towson Dental Group team.