Sports, Safety, and Your Child's Teeth: The Importance of Mouthguards
If you're a parent of a child involved in sports, you understand the importance of protective gear. You wouldn't let your young athlete step onto the field or court without a helmet, shin guards, or the appropriate padding. But have you considered the critical role of mouthguards in safeguarding your child's teeth and oral health?
Why Mouthguards Matter
Mouthguards are dental devices designed to absorb and distribute the force of impacts, reducing the risk of injury to the teeth, jaw, and soft tissues of the mouth. They are particularly important for children and adolescents engaged in contact sports or activities with a high risk of falls or collisions.
Consider these statistics:
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, an estimated 10-20% of all sports-related injuries involve the face and mouth.
Dental injuries are the most common type of orofacial injury sustained during participation in sports, with the majority affecting the upper front teeth.
The National Youth Sports Safety Foundation reports that athletes who do not wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injury than those who do.
Types of Mouthguards
There are three primary types of mouthguards:
Stock Mouthguards: These pre-formed guards are ready-to-wear and available at most sporting goods stores. While they offer some protection, they often fit poorly and can be uncomfortable, making it difficult for your child to speak or breathe properly.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These mouthguards are made from thermoplastic material that can be softened in hot water and then molded to your child's teeth by biting down. They offer a better fit than stock guards but may still be bulky and less comfortable than custom options.
Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: Crafted by dental professionals from impressions of your child's teeth, custom mouthguards provide the highest level of protection and comfort. They allow for ease of speech and breathing and are less likely to shift or fall out during use.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard
When selecting a mouthguard for your child, consider the following factors:
Sport: Different sports carry different levels of risk. High-contact activities like football, hockey, and boxing warrant the use of a custom-fitted mouthguard, while lower-risk sports may allow for a boil-and-bite option.
Age: As your child grows, their mouthguard will need to be replaced to accommodate changes in tooth and jaw development. Your dentist can advise on the appropriate type and timing of replacement.
Dental History: If your child has a history of dental injuries, wears braces, or has other oral health concerns, a custom mouthguard may be the best choice to ensure adequate protection.
Caring for Mouthguards
Proper care and maintenance can extend the life of your child's mouthguard and ensure optimal hygiene:
Rinse the mouthguard before and after each use with cold water.
Brush the mouthguard with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste to remove debris and bacteria.
Store the mouthguard in a ventilated container when not in use.
Avoid exposing the mouthguard to high temperatures, as this can cause distortion.
Replace the mouthguard if it shows signs of wear, damage, or no longer fits properly.
The Bottom Line
As a parent, you want to do everything possible to keep your child safe and healthy. Incorporating a mouthguard into their sports safety routine is a simple but essential step in protecting their teeth and oral well-being.
Talk to your child's dentist about the best mouthguard option for their needs, and make sure they understand the importance of wearing it consistently during practices and games. By prioritizing mouthguard use, you're not only safeguarding your child's smile but also helping them develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime.
If you have any questions or concerns about selecting the appropriate mouthguard, ensuring a proper fit, or if your child is due for a new one due to growth or wear, we at Wasatch Pediatric Dentistry are here to help. Schedule an appointment with us, and take the first step towards securing your child’s bright and healthy smile for all their athletic endeavors.