Should Your Child Be Wearing A Mouthguard?
For kids who love sports, staying active is a great way to build teamwork skills, stay healthy, and have fun. However, sports also come with their share of risks, particularly when it comes to dental injuries. From contact sports like football and basketball to activities like skateboarding or cycling, the risk of damaging teeth, gums, and the jaw is significant. That’s why mouthguards are an essential piece of equipment for young athletes. In this blog, we’ll explore why mouthguards are crucial for kids who play sports, the different types available, and how to choose the right one for your child.
The Importance of Mouthguards in Sports
Mouthguards play a critical role in protecting your child’s oral health during sports. They cushion the impact to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth, injuries to the lips, tongue, and gums, and even more serious issues like jaw fractures or concussions. Here’s why mouthguards are so important:
- Preventing Dental Injuries: The primary function of a mouthguard is to absorb and distribute the force of a blow to the face. Without a mouthguard, a direct hit to the mouth can result in chipped, broken, or even knocked-out teeth. Additionally, the sharp edges of damaged teeth can cause cuts to the lips, cheeks, and tongue, leading to further pain and potential infections.
- Protecting Braces and Other Orthodontic Devices: For kids who wear braces or other orthodontic appliances, a mouthguard is even more crucial. A blow to the face without a mouthguard can not only damage the teeth but also the braces themselves, leading to costly repairs and extended treatment times. A properly fitted mouthguard can protect both the teeth and the orthodontic devices, helping to prevent injuries that could complicate or prolong orthodontic care.
- Reducing the Risk of Concussions: While mouthguards are primarily designed to protect the teeth, they can also reduce the risk of concussions. By cushioning the impact of a blow to the jaw, a mouthguard can help reduce the force transmitted to the skull, potentially lowering the risk of a concussion. This added layer of protection is especially important in contact sports like football, hockey, and boxing.
- Improving Performance: Believe it or not, wearing a mouthguard can also improve your child’s performance on the field. A well-fitting mouthguard allows your child to breathe more easily and communicate better with teammates, both of which are essential for peak performance. Additionally, knowing that their teeth and jaws are protected can give your child the confidence to play more aggressively and without fear of injury.
Types of Mouthguards
There are several types of mouthguards available, each offering different levels of protection and comfort. Understanding the options can help you choose the best one for your child.
- Stock Mouthguards: Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and ready to wear right out of the package. They are typically the least expensive option, but they also offer the least amount of protection and comfort. Because they come in a one-size-fits-all design, they may not fit your child’s mouth properly, making it difficult to talk, breathe, or keep the mouthguard in place during play. While better than no protection at all, stock mouthguards are generally not recommended for serious athletes.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Boil-and-bite mouthguards are a popular option because they offer a better fit than stock mouthguards while still being relatively affordable. To use a boil-and-bite mouthguard, you first soften it in boiling water, then have your child bite into it to create a custom fit. These mouthguards provide better protection and comfort than stock versions, making them a good choice for many young athletes.
- Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: For the best protection and comfort, a custom-fitted mouthguard is the ideal choice. These mouthguards are made by a dentist or orthodontist, who takes an impression of your child’s teeth and creates a mouthguard specifically designed for their mouth. While custom-fitted mouthguards are more expensive, they offer superior protection, are more comfortable to wear, and are less likely to interfere with breathing or speaking. For kids who play high-contact sports or wear braces, a custom-fitted mouthguard is highly recommended.
When Should Your Child Wear a Mouthguard?
Mouthguards should be worn during any sport or activity where there is a risk of injury to the face or mouth. This includes both contact sports like football, basketball, hockey, and martial arts, as well as non-contact activities like gymnastics, skateboarding, and cycling. Even sports like baseball or soccer, where contact is less frequent, can still pose a risk of dental injuries from collisions with other players, balls, or equipment.
It’s also important to ensure that your child wears their mouthguard during both practices and games. Many injuries occur during practice when kids might be less vigilant about wearing protective gear. Establishing the habit of always wearing a mouthguard can help prevent these injuries and keep your child’s smile safe.
Caring for Your Child’s Mouthguard
To ensure that your child’s mouthguard continues to provide the best protection, it’s important to take proper care of it. Here are some tips for maintaining your child’s mouthguard:
- Regular Cleaning: After each use, rinse the mouthguard with cool water or a mouth rinse. You can also brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste to remove any debris. Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and keeps the mouthguard fresh.
- Proper Storage: Store the mouthguard in a sturdy, ventilated case when not in use. This allows it to air dry and protects it from damage. Avoid exposing the mouthguard to direct sunlight or high temperatures, as this can cause it to warp.
- Regular Checkups: Bring the mouthguard to your child’s dental appointments so the dentist can check for signs of wear and tear. If the mouthguard becomes damaged or no longer fits properly, it should be replaced.
- Avoid Chewing: Encourage your child not to chew on their mouthguard, as this can cause it to lose its shape and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Mouthguards are an essential piece of protective equipment for kids who play sports. They provide crucial protection against dental injuries, safeguard orthodontic appliances, and even help reduce the risk of concussions. Whether your child plays contact sports or engages in activities with a risk of falls or collisions, wearing a properly fitted mouthguard is key to keeping their smile safe. At Fort Dental Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics, we are committed to helping parents protect their children’s oral health. If you have any questions about mouthguards or need assistance in choosing the right one for your child, don’t hesitate to contact our team in Tukwila, WA.