It’s that time of the year when the heat starts to let up, leaves begin to change colors, and kids head back to school in droves. Pencils? Check. Paper? Check. Mouthguard? Wait, was that on the supply list?
Chances are your child’s teacher doesn’t require that they wear an oral appliance, but if your student is an athlete intending to play fall sports, it might be time to consider having their dentist fit them for a customized mouthguard. Here’s 3 reasons why.
#1. A Mouthguard Can Help Protect Against Dental Injuries
Sports and other physical activities can put your child’s teeth at risk. A collision, fall, or accidental blow to the face can result in chipped, broken, or even knocked-out teeth. Injuries to the lips, tongue, and other soft tissues can also occur.
A properly fitted mouthguard provides a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth and can help absorb and distribute the force of an impact. While no mouthguard can prevent every injury, wearing one can offer valuable protection during activities where falls, contact, or collisions are possible.
Mouthguards are commonly associated with sports such as football, hockey, and boxing, but children may also benefit from wearing them during basketball, soccer, baseball, gymnastics, skateboarding, and other activities where facial injuries can occur.
#2. Protecting Your Child’s Smile May Prevent Complicated Treatment
A dental injury can sometimes require more than a quick visit to the dentist. Depending on the severity of the damage, treatment could involve dental bonding, a crown, a root canal, or other restorative procedures. A knocked-out permanent tooth may require immediate care and may not always be successfully saved.
By encouraging your child to wear a mouthguard, you may reduce their risk of experiencing a serious dental injury in the first place. Preventing an injury can spare your child unnecessary pain, stress, missed school time, and potentially complex dental treatment.
If your child has braces or another orthodontic appliance, a mouthguard can be especially important for helping protect both their teeth and the soft tissues inside their mouth.
#3. A Custom Mouthguard Can Provide a Comfortable Fit
Children may be more likely to wear a mouthguard consistently if it feels comfortable. While store-bought options are available, a custom mouthguard from a dentist is made to fit your child’s teeth and mouth.
A properly fitted mouthguard may be more comfortable and easier to wear during physical activity. Your dentist can also recommend the most appropriate type of mouthguard based on your child’s age, sport, and dental needs.
A new school year is the perfect time to make sure your child’s sports gear includes protection for their teeth. Before the next practice or game, talk with your child’s dentist about whether a custom mouthguard is right for them.
About the Practice
The Dental Specialists Pediatric Dentistry in Garland specializes in providing for the dental needs of our young friends, including athletic mouthguards! Our appliances are 100 percent custom-made for each child, allowing them to clearly communicate and breathe as they normally would. Contact us online if you have questions or call (972) 364-7472.