Sports Mouthguards For Protecting Teeth
Whether your child is into sports or simply enjoys active play, a mouth guard is a must-have for safeguarding their smile. Also known as sports guards or athletic mouth protectors, these essential devices fit comfortably over the upper teeth, reducing the risk of injuries and preserving both the health and appearance of your child’s teeth.
Beyond sports, mouth guards are also a great solution for children who grind their teeth at night, helping to prevent wear and potential long-term damage.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) highly recommends using a mouth guard during any sport or recreational activity where injuries are possible. There are a variety of affordable store-bought options available—many costing under ten dollars—mouthguards are a small investment that can make a big difference in protecting your child’s smile.
How Can Mouthguards Protect My Child?
At present, most sporting organizations now mandate the use of mouthguards for all participants. While they mostly protect the teeth, mouthguards play a crucial role in reducing the force of trauma impact on the jaw to the central nervous system at the base of the brain. It will lower the risk of traumatic brain injury, which is essential for small children.
Our mouthguards can help reduce the incidence of the following injuries:
- Cheek lesions
- Concussions
- Gum and soft tissue injuries
- Jawbone fractures
- Lip lesions
- Neck injuries
- Tongue lesions
- Tooth fractures
What Type Of Mouth Guards Do We Offer?
When it comes to your child’s safety in sports, we believe a high-quality mouthguard is essential, with thousands of options available. Choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, and we might be able to guide you. However, mouthguards generally fall into three main categories: stock mouthguards, boil-and-bite mouthguards, and custom-made mouthguards. Understanding the differences will help you make the best choice for your child.
Stock Mouth Guards
Stock mouthguards are pre-made and designed to fit universally. While inexpensive and easily accessible at sporting goods stores, they offer minimal protection and can be uncomfortable. Additionally, they may interfere with breathing and speaking. Due to their poor fit and limited safety features, pediatric dentists do not recommend it for children.
Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards
A step up from stock options, boil-and-bite mouth guards are made from a thermoplastic material that softens in hot water. Once heated, they can be molded to fit your child’s teeth, offering a better fit and improved comfort. Our mouthguards provide greater protection, making it easier for children to breathe and speak while playing. They are a popular choice for young athletes.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards: The Ultimate Protection
For the highest level of safety and comfort, custom-made ones are the best choice. Created by our dentist using a precise mold of your child’s teeth, these mouth guards ensure an exact fit and superior protection. While they are more expensive and require professional fitting, they provide the best defense against dental injuries.
Investing in a high-quality mouthguard with Dennis Dental Care is crucial if your child plays high-contact sports like basketball or baseball. For the best protection, consider a custom-made mouth guard to ensure comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
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