Athletic Mouthguards for Ski, Hockey, and Outdoor Activities: Why Custom Beats Store-Bought
Published December 9, 2025 9:00 amWinter in Colorado brings more than fresh powder — it brings adventure. From long ski days on the mountain to youth hockey practice and high‑energy outdoor activities, staying active is a way of life here in the Rockies. But while you’re grabbing your gear, there’s one piece of protection that often gets overlooked: a properly fitted custom athletic mouthguard.
At Altitude Family Dental in Gypsum, CO, we’ve seen the damage that can happen when teeth go unprotected — and we’ve also seen how much better outcomes are when patients invest in a custom-made mouthguard. Whether you’re skiing, playing hockey, snowmobiling, or biking winter trails, protecting your smile is just as important as protecting your head.
Why Athletic Mouthguards Matter
A single fall or collision can do more than bruise your ego — it can crack, chip, or even dislodge a tooth. Facial injuries are common in sports, especially those involving speed, contact, or unpredictable terrain. Mouthguards help cushion the teeth and absorb shock, significantly reducing the risk of:
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Cuts to lips, cheeks, or tongue
- Jaw injuries or fractures
- Tooth loss or root trauma
- Concussions (in some cases, due to impact absorption)
They’re especially important for kids and teens — a mouthguard can protect orthodontic appliances and prevent injuries that may require extensive treatment later.
The Problem With Store-Bought Mouthguards
Boil‑and‑bite mouthguards are easy to find, but they often fall short in fit and function. Many athletes stop wearing them because they’re uncomfortable or distracting. Common issues include:
- Difficulty breathing or speaking clearly
- Poor fit that slips out of place
- Inconsistent or incomplete protection
- Frequent replacement due to tearing or distortion
And since store-bought guards aren’t tailored to your bite or jaw alignment, they may not provide effective protection when it matters most.
Why Custom Mouthguards Make a Difference
Custom athletic mouthguards made at Altitude Family Dental are designed to fit your mouth precisely. Using a digital scan or mold, Dr. Joshua Rudin or Dr. Greg Adair creates a guard that matches your exact bite and provides balanced, secure coverage.
Benefits of a custom athletic mouthguard include:
- Comfortable, secure fit
- Better airway support and breathability
- More reliable impact protection
- Less interference with speaking
- Durable, long-lasting materials
- Customized designs for patients with braces or unique dental needs
For athletes who train or compete regularly — especially in high-impact winter sports — this level of protection can prevent serious dental emergencies.
Winter Sports That Put Smiles at Risk
Mouthguards are essential for more than just football or martial arts. Many popular mountain and winter activities carry a high risk of facial injury:
- Skiing and snowboarding: High speeds, unpredictable terrain, and collisions can easily lead to dental trauma.
- Ice hockey: Fast pucks, sticks, and physical contact make oral protection a must.
- Snowmobiling or mountain biking: Jarring movement and potential falls increase the risk of impact injuries.
- Outdoor skating or sledding: Icy surfaces mean harder falls, often face-first.
If your sport involves speed, contact, or equipment, a mouthguard is non-negotiable.
Custom Mouthguards at Altitude Family Dental
At Altitude Family Dental, we take a proactive approach to oral health — and that includes injury prevention. Dr. Rudin and Dr. Adair have seen how a well‑designed mouthguard can prevent dental trauma, reduce the severity of impact, and help athletes perform confidently.
We guide you through every step of the process: fitting, fabrication, adjustments, and long-term care. You’ll leave with gear that’s ready for your next ski weekend, practice, or outdoor adventure.
Ready to gear up for the season? Schedule a consultation at Altitude Family Dental in Gypsum, CO to get fitted for a custom athletic mouthguard that offers better comfort, better protection, and better peace of mind.
Categorised in: Custom Mouthguards