Athletic Mouthwear
Athletic Mouthwear: Why Every Active Individual in Ottawa Should Use One
Whether you’re sprinting across a soccer field, biking through the Ottawa trails, or skiing the slopes of Gatineau Hills, one thing is clear — protecting your teeth matters. Athletic mouthwear, also known as performance mouthguards, is essential for athletes of all ages who want to stay safe and perform their best.
In a city as active as Ottawa, where hockey, football, rugby, and even tennis and golf are part of daily life, a custom-fit mouthguard can make a world of difference.
What Is Athletic Mouthwear?
Athletic mouthwear refers to custom-designed mouthguards that protect your teeth, jaw, and overall oral structure during sports or physical activity. Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards, custom options are tailored to your unique bite, offering superior comfort, protection, and even performance enhancement.
Is a Mouthguard Really Necessary?
Absolutely. According to the Canadian Dental Association, athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries without a mouthguard. A well-fitted mouthguard can protect against:
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Broken or knocked-out teeth
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Jaw fractures
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Soft tissue injuries (tongue, lips, cheeks)
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Concussions
Whether you take a puck to the face or collide with another player on the field, athletic mouthwear acts as your first line of defense. And if you think it’s only for pro athletes — think again. Every child or adult involved in organized sports should be wearing one.
What Sports Require Mouthguards?
Athletic mouthwear is ideal for both high-contact and low-contact sports:
High-Contact Sports
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Hockey
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Football
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Rugby
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Martial arts
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Lacrosse
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Basketball
Low-Contact Sports
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Tennis
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Baseball
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Weightlifting
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Biking
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Skiing
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Skateboarding
Even non-contact sports carry the risk of accidental impacts — and it only takes one to cause serious dental trauma.
What’s the Process for Getting One?
Getting a custom athletic mouthguard in Ottawa is quick and easy:
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Schedule a consultation with your dentist (Dr. Sheema Samarrae and her team are ready to help!).
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Your dentist will take precise impressions of your upper and lower teeth, as well as your bite.
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These molds are sent to a lab where your custom mouthguard is fabricated, typically within 7–10 days.
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Once ready, you’ll come in for a final fitting to ensure maximum comfort and protection.
Can I Customize My Mouthwear?
Yes! Many custom athletic mouthguards can be personalized with:
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Team logos or colours
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Name tags or initials
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Colourful bite pads
This makes them fun for kids and allows adults to show team spirit while protecting their smiles.
Is It Safe for People with Braces or Dental Work?
Definitely — but it’s important to consult with your dentist first. Special adjustments may be needed if you:
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Wear braces
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Have dental implants or bridges
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Are missing teeth
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Have experienced prior dental injuries
Custom mouthguards can be made to accommodate these factors, ensuring both safety and comfort.
How Do I Clean and Store My Athletic Mouthwear?
To extend the life of your mouthguard and keep it hygienic:
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Rinse after every use with water or alcohol-free mouthwash
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Brush gently with a toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste
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Air dry completely before placing it in a ventilated container
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Avoid heat exposure — never leave it in a hot car or near a heat source
With the right care, your mouthguard can last for several seasons.
Improve Performance, Not Just Protection
Did you know that properly designed performance mouthwear can also help reduce stress and jaw clenching, improve oxygen flow, and increase focus? Many professional athletes wear them not just for protection but also to enhance overall athletic performance.
Get Fitted for a Custom Mouthguard in Ottawa

Don’t wait for a dental injury to happen before acting. Whether you’re a parent with an active child or an adult athlete playing on weekends, a custom-fit athletic mouthguard is a smart investment in your health and safety.
Contact our Ottawa dental clinic today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Sheema Samarrae and get started. At The Teal Umbrella, we’re here to help you stay protected and confident on the field, rink, court — or wherever your sport takes you.

