Parents strive to protect their children from harm, yet one of the most overlooked aspects of their safety is safeguarding their smiles. Whether your child is an aspiring athlete or just enjoys recreational sports, a sports mouthguard can play a vital role in protecting their teeth from serious injuries.
Why is a sports mouthguard essential?
Sports-related dental injuries are common, especially among children. Many adults carry the lifelong effects of childhood dental trauma, often caused during sports activities. Let’s discuss why a sports mouthguard is a must-have for young athletes.
A mouthguard is a protective appliance worn over the teeth to minimize the risk of broken teeth, jaw injuries, or soft tissue damage caused by blows or impacts to the face. It’s as essential as a helmet or protective padding for sports.
Types of mouthguards: Which one is best for your child?
Parents often ask: What type of mouthguard should I choose for my child? Here’s a breakdown of the three main options:
• Custom-Made Mouthguards
• Created by a dentist for a perfect fit.
• Offers the highest level of comfort and protection.
While it is the most expensive option, it provides advanced safety tailored to your child’s teeth.
Boil-and-Bite mouthguards
• Easily available at sporting goods stores and pharmacies.
• Made from a thermoplastic material softened in hot water and shaped by biting into it.
• A more affordable option, offering a reasonable fit and protection.
Stock mouthguards
• Pre-formed and ready to wear.
• Inexpensive but often ill-fitting and bulky.
• Can hinder breathing and speech, making them less ideal for active sports.
Whichever type you choose, ensure the mouthguard is comfortable, tear-resistant, fits properly, and doesn’t restrict breathing or talking.
Which sports require a mouthguard?
Mouthguards are traditionally associated with contact sports such as football, hockey, boxing, and lacrosse. However, dental injuries can occur in non-contact sports too, such as basketball, skateboarding, gymnastics, or even cycling. If your child is active in any sport where a risk of collision, falls, or equipment-related injuries exists, a mouthguard is essential.
Caring for your child’s mouthguard
• To maintain the effectiveness and hygiene of your child’s mouthguard, follow these care tips:
• Rinse it before and after every use.
• Clean it with mild soap and cold water, ensuring it is thoroughly dry before storing.
• Store it in a well-ventilated case to prevent bacterial buildup.
• Regularly inspect it for tears or signs of wear, and replace it as needed.
• Bring it to dental checkups for evaluation.
• Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or hot water, which can warp the material.
Pro Tip: Children’s mouths grow and change rapidly. Check the fit of the mouthguard often, and replace it when it no longer fits snugly.
Why investing in a mouthguard makes sense
The cost of repairing sports-related dental injuries far outweighs the investment in a quality mouthguard. Accidents can happen not just during games but also during practice sessions, making consistent use of a mouthguard critical.
By ensuring your child wears a properly fitted mouthguard, you protect more than just their teeth—you preserve their confidence, comfort, and ability to enjoy the sports they love.
By keeping their safety a top priority, you equip your child to play, explore, and excel with confidence. So, as your little athlete gears up for their next game, don’t forget to include this small yet mighty piece of gear in their kit. A mouthguard is more than a protective device—it’s a game-changer for their dental health!