CarolinasDentist Blog

Do You Need a Mouthguard for Basketball?

A basketball sits on a court in front of players playing basketball

Participating in sports, such as basketball, and other physical recreational activities is great for meeting new people, staying in shape, building skills, and having fun. While a beneficial pastime in many respects, playing a sport that involves potential contact with other participants, the ground, or equipment does increase a player’s risk of experiencing dental trauma.

The American Dental Association (ADA) and our CarolinasDentist team recommend wearing a properly fitted mouthguard to reduce the risk of injury.

Mouthguards in Sports

Suddenly losing one or more of your teeth will negatively affect your ability to smile, talk, and eat. Preventing injuries from contact with equipment or another player is important if you play a sport.

An athletic mouthguard cushions a blow to the face. A mouthguard covers the teeth and helps protect the soft tissues of your tongue, lips, and cheeks.

Are Athletic Mouthguards Good for Basketball?

Basketball is an example of a sport where a mouthguard would be beneficial. Basketball is a sport that can cause potential dental trauma, whether it’s from the ball or a collision between players. It is wise to invest in a well-fitting mouthguard even if one isn’t required by your league or team.

Benefits of Sports Mouthguards

It can be easy to shrug off purchasing a mouthguard if it is not required. However, it is not worth risking an injury! A mouthguard will help protect your teeth and jawbone to reduce the risk of injury and the need for expensive dental repairs. Plus, a custom-fitted mouthguard is comfortable and won’t distract you from playing a great game.

Ask CarolinasDentist About a Custom Mouthguard for Sports

Our CarolinasDentist locations offer many services. Whether you’re a Tar Heel athlete at UNC, you have a young middle school or high school athlete in your home, or you simply enjoy playing contact sports recreationally, CarolinasDentist can provide you with a comfortable sports mouthguard. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

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Photo by Bk Aguilar on Pexels

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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