When kids engage in sports, their health and safety are a top priority. While many parents focus on helmets, pads, and appropriate footwear, one of the most crucial pieces of equipment for young athletes is often overlooked—the mouthguard. Whether your child is playing contact sports like football or participating in non-contact activities like basketball or gymnastics, a properly fitted mouthguard can help protect their smile and avoid serious dental injuries.

 

Why Mouthguards Are Essential

Mouthguards play a critical role in protecting your child’s teeth, gums, lips, and jaw. Kids are prone to accidents, and sports injuries can happen quickly. A mouthguard works as a cushion, absorbing the impact during collisions or falls, preventing damage to the teeth, and even reducing the risk of a concussion. Here’s why every active child needs one:

 

1. Protecting the Teeth and Gums

In contact sports like rugby, hockey, or even soccer, collisions are inevitable. A sudden impact could result in broken or knocked-out teeth. This is particularly concerning for children who are still growing, as injuries to their permanent teeth can have long-term effects. A well-fitted mouthguard cushions the impact, minimizing the risk of broken teeth, bruised gums, or cuts to the lips.

 

2. Preventing Jaw Injuries

The force of an impact can cause significant trauma to the jaw, potentially leading to fractures or dislocations. A mouthguard helps distribute the force of the blow, reducing the chances of jaw injuries. For kids who are still growing, protecting the jaw from injury is particularly important to avoid disruptions to their development.

 

3. Avoiding Concussions

Studies show that a properly fitted mouthguard can reduce the risk of concussions in contact sports. By stabilizing the jaw and absorbing the impact of a blow to the face, the mouthguard may help reduce the chances of a concussion, which can have serious long-term effects on brain health.

 

4. Preserving a Healthy Smile

For children, their smile is an important part of their identity. Dental injuries can affect a child’s confidence and self-esteem. In severe cases, lost or damaged teeth may require expensive and lengthy restorative procedures. A mouthguard acts as a simple and effective way to prevent these injuries, helping to preserve your child’s smile and overall oral health.

 

 

Types of Mouthguards: Finding the Right Fit

There are three main types of mouthguards:

• Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-formed and come in a standard size. While they are inexpensive, they often don’t offer the best fit and comfort. They can be bulky and may not provide sufficient protection.
• Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These are more customizable. The mouthguard is softened in hot water, and your child bites into it to form a snug fit. These offer a better fit than stock mouthguards, but they still might not be as precise as a custom-made one.
• Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: These are the best option for comfort, fit, and protection. A dentist will create a mold of your child’s mouth, ensuring the mouthguard fits perfectly and provides optimal protection. While they may cost more, custom mouthguards are the most reliable and durable option.

 

Encouraging Your Child to Wear a Mouthguard

It can be difficult to convince kids to wear protective gear, but the importance of wearing a mouthguard should be emphasized. Educate your child about the risks of not wearing one, and make the experience as comfortable as possible. Choosing a mouthguard with their favorite color or sport-related design can also help make wearing it more enjoyable.

 

Additionally, remind your child that many professional athletes wear mouthguards to protect their smiles, setting a great example. If your child feels like they’re part of the team by wearing one, they’re more likely to wear it consistently.

 

 

Maintaining Your Mouthguard

To keep your child’s mouthguard in good condition, clean it regularly with cold water and a toothbrush. Store it in a sturdy case to avoid damage and ensure it stays sanitary. Regularly check that it still fits well, as your child’s mouth will grow and change over time.

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At MS Dental, we understand the importance of protecting your child’s smile. That’s why we offer custom-fitted mouthguards across all our branches in Fletcher, Singleton, Cardiff, and Mayfield. Our team is here to help ensure your child gets the best protection for their active lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment to get a custom mouthguard for your child.