Participating in sports is a great way for children to stay active and healthy, but it also increases the risk of oral injuries. At Young Dentistry for Children, a Colorado pediatric dentistry, one of the most effective tools we recommend to protect young athletes from dental injuries is the use of athletic mouthguards. These devices are crucial not only for safety but also for the long-term dental health of your child. Here we explore the importance of mouthguards, how they function, and why every child athlete should be wearing one during sports activities.
The Importance of Athletic Mouthguards
Mouthguards are not just for professional athletes; they are a necessary piece of equipment for children in sports, too. According to studies, about 39% of dental injuries in children are sports-related, and such injuries are the leading type of facial injury in sports participation. Athletic mouthguards help cushion blows that might otherwise cause broken teeth, injuries to the lips and face, and even more extensive harm, such as jaw fractures or concussions.
How Mouthguards Protect Your Young Athlete
An effective mouthguard will distribute the force of a hit over a larger area. This distribution can significantly reduce the impact force that reaches any one part of the mouth and can be instrumental in preventing broken teeth and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth. Additionally, in certain sports, mouthguards have been shown to help reduce the severity of concussions, as they help absorb and disperse the energy of impacts that might otherwise directly affect the skull and brain.
Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards
In the realm of Colorado pediatric dentistry, we typically discuss three types of mouthguards with our patients:
- Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-formed and ready to wear. However, they often don’t fit very well, can be bulky, and may make breathing and talking difficult.
- Boil and Bite Mouthguards: These offer a better fit than stock mouthguards because they can be softened in hot water and then formed to the teeth using finger, tongue, and bite pressure. While they are more adaptable than stock options, they still can lack the precise fit of a custom-made mouthguard. These are often recommended for children with a mix of baby and permanent teeth.
- Custom-Fit Mouthguards: Made by a dentist or a professional lab based on a mold of your child’s teeth, these mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort because they are tailored to the exact dimensions of the individual’s mouth.
Why We in ColoradoPediatric Dentistry Advocate for Custom Mouthguards
In our practice, we emphasize the importance of custom athletic mouthguards, particularly for children involved in high-contact sports like football, hockey, basketball, and martial arts, or even non-contact sports where accidental impacts can occur, such as scooters, skateboarding and bike riding. The reasons are clear:
- Superior Comfort and Fit: Custom mouthguards stay in place better and interfere less with speaking and breathing, making them more likely to be worn consistently.
- Enhanced Protection: Because of their precise fit, custom mouthguards are more effective at absorbing and distributing impact.
- Long-Term Savings: Investing in a custom mouthguard can prevent costly dental injuries, which can mean significant savings over time.
Integrating Mouthguards into Your Child’s Sports Routine
Here are a few tips for integrating the use of athletic mouthguards into your child’s sports activities effectively:
- Start Early: Introduce your child to mouthguards at a young age so that wearing one becomes a natural part of playing sports. Have your child wear the mouthguard around the house, to get used to speaking with it.
- Consistent Use: Make sure your child understands the importance of wearing their mouthguard during every practice and game, no matter the sport.
- Proper Maintenance: Teach your child how to clean and store their mouthguard properly. Regular cleaning will prevent the growth of bacteria and extend the life of the mouthguard.
- Regular Checkups: Have the fit of your child’s mouthguard checked regularly as part of their dental checkups to ensure it still fits well especially as they grow and their mouth changes.
Don’t Leave Out This Piece of Equipment
Athletic mouthguards are an essential part of sports equipment that should never be overlooked. At Young Dentistry for Children in Colorado, we emphasize the importance of protecting our young athletes’ smiles as vigorously as we protect their future. Whether it’s during a practice or a game, a well-fitting mouthguard is a key defense against sports-related dental injuries. At our practice, we are committed to providing your child with the best fit and protection available, helping to keep their smiles safe no matter how intense the game gets.
Remember, preserving your child’s dental health with athletic mouthguards is a proactive step that can have lasting benefits for their overall well-being and performance in sports. Don’t wait for an injury to happen — make mouthguards a part of your child’s sports routine today. The dentists at Young Dentistry for Children in Westminster can help!
