Mouthguards are essential for protection against sports-related injuries because the mouth and jaw are very susceptible to sports injuries.
A mouthguard helps protect the teeth and the gums from excessive force. The American Dental Association recommends that if your child is active in any kind of sports that has a certain amount of physical injury risk, such as gymnastics, football, basketball, boxing, hockey, racquetball, rugby, track and field, lacrosse, martial arts, snowboarding and skiing, surfing, volleyball, water polo, skydiving, soccer, wrestling, weightlifting, and so on – then they must have a mouthguard on during the activity.
Mouthguards can be of different types and sizes, but there are three main types: pre-made, “boil-and-bite” fitted, and custom-made. Furthermore, only choose among tear-resistant mouthguards for better protection.
There are other considerations as well. For example, the mouthguard should not hamper breathing in any way and should be easy to clean. Also, only choose a tear-resistant mouthguard for the most protection.
If your son or daughter wears a retainer or braces then a mouthguard is even more important because their teeth are at a higher risk of physical injury upon impact.
From choosing the right mouthguard to wearing them properly – Dr. Lee and Dr. Ben can show your child how to use them the right way.
Any special dental fitting such as braces, retainers, and mouthguards need proper care. Keeping it clean is the primary goal, but there is more to caring for a mouthguard than just that.
Here is how you can ensure that the mouthguard keeps working efficiently and for longer.
Our goal is to minimize your child’s chances of a sports-related injury to his or her smile. Be sure to ask us about mouthguards at your child’s next dental checkup.
