Football season is right around the corner (some high schools start as early as June) and you can’t wait to get back on the gridiron.

Time to go through the equipment checklist:

Cleats? Check.

Socks? Check.

Wristbands? Check.

Gloves? Check.

Chin strap? Check?

Mouthguard? What…

A mouthguard should be a top priority when completing your equipment pickup this football season. Not only is a mouthguard mandatory for some high school sports, it is an important piece of equipment for your safety as a player. The research and statistics show that a mouthguard is a very important aspect of player protection.A mouthguard help protect against those forces on your teeth when you are running, jumping, or making contact with another player, preventing any trauma to your teeth, jaw or gums. They are a great way to protect the soft tissues of your tongue, lips and cheek lining too.Now that you have your mouthguard for the season, remember to take care of it too! You are going to want it to last the whole season.

Here are some mouthguard care tips:

  • Do not chew on your mouthguard
  • Rinse before and after each use or brush with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Regularly clean the mouthguard in cool, soapy water. Then, rinse it thoroughly.
  • Store and transport the mouthguard in a sturdy container that has vents so it can dry and keep bacteria from growing.
  • Check fit and for signs of wear and tear to see if it needs replacing.

Mouthguard safety can be easy as one, two, and three – get a mouthguard, use your mouthguard, and clean your mouthguard. Remember, play hard but also play safe!

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(Benco.com, $13.99) The Under Armour ArmourShield™ mouthguard delivers the protection, fit and retention needed for team contact sports. Patented Bite Flex™ and ArmourPlate™ technologies provide higher-impact protection to teeth, jaws and gums. The comfort fit design allows for easier breathing and clearer on-field communications.