Sports are an excellent way for children to learn teamwork, discipline, and the importance of physical fitness. However, they can also pose a significant risk to your child's teeth and gums. At our dental office, we believe that prevention is always better than cure. That's why we recommend all children participating in contact sports wear a mouthguard to protect their smiles.
Sports-related dental injuries are more common than you might think. In fact, the American Dental Association estimates that over 200,000 oral injuries are prevented each year by wearing a mouthguard during sports activities. These protective devices help to reduce the risk of tooth fractures, knocked-out teeth, and other types of oral trauma.
There are three main types of mouthguards available: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-made. Stock mouthguards are the most affordable option but they often don't fit well and can be uncomfortable to wear. Boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a better fit as they mold to your child's teeth after being heated in hot water. However, for optimal protection, we recommend investing in a custom-made mouthguard from our office.
Custom mouthguards are made using an impression of your child's teeth. This ensures a perfect fit that provides maximum protection against sports-related injuries. They also tend to be more comfortable than other types of mouthguards, which means your child is more likely to wear them consistently.
The type of mouthguard that's best for your child depends on several factors including their age, level of participation in sports, and whether they have any existing dental issues such as braces. Our team will be happy to discuss these options with you and help you choose the right one for your family.
To ensure your child's mouthguard remains effective, it's important to take good care of it. This includes rinsing it with cold water before and after use, storing it in a protective case when not in use, and replacing it every few months or whenever it shows signs of wear and tear.
While sports can be an exciting and rewarding experience for children, they also pose a risk to their oral health. By encouraging your child to wear a mouthguard during sports activities, you're helping to protect their teeth and gums from potential harm. At our dental office, we believe that every smile deserves the best protection possible. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help keep your child's smile safe during sports.
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