Custom Sports Mouthguards Protect Teeth
It is important for children participating in sports or recreational activities that may result in injury to wear mouth guards, also known as sports guards or athletic mouth protectors. These devices cover the upper teeth securely, providing protection for the entire mouth area and helping to preserve the appearance and health of the smile. In addition, mouth guards can also be beneficial for children who grind their teeth at night, preventing potential damage.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) strongly recommends the use of mouth guards for any type of sports or recreational activity. There are many affordable store-bought options available for under ten dollars, making them a valuable investment for parents.
How Do Mouth Guards Protect My Child?
Most sporting organizations now require participants to wear mouth guards. These guards not only protect teeth but also help lessen the force of impact on the jaw, reducing the risk of traumatic brain injury. This is especially important for younger children. Mouth guards also help lower the occurrence of various injuries.
- Cheek lesions
- Concussions
- Gum and soft tissue injuries
- Jawbone fractures
- Lip lesions
- Neck injuries
- Tongue lesions
- Tooth fractures
What type of mouth guard should I get for my child?
With thousands of mouth guard brands on the market, they can typically be categorized into three main types: stock mouth guards, boil-and-bite mouth guards, and custom-made mouth guards. When choosing a mouth guard, it is important to consider the following factors:
- How much are you willing to spend?
- How frequently does your child participate in sports?
- What type of sport does your child play? (Basketball and baseball, in particular, are known for causing a high number of oral injuries.)
Considering these factors, here is an overview of the pros and cons of each type of mouth guard:
Stock Mouth Guards are pre-made and available off the shelf, designed to fit all sizes universally without adjustment. They are inexpensive, easy to find at sporting goods stores, and simple to use. However, they offer minimal protection, can interfere with breathing and speaking, and tend to be uncomfortable. Pediatric dentists generally do not recommend these for adequate protection.
Boil and Bite Mouth Guards are made from thermoplastic and can be found in sporting goods stores. They require immersion in hot water to become pliable, after which they are molded to the child’s teeth. Although slightly more expensive than stock mouth guards, they provide better protection, a more comfortable fit, and facilitate easier speech and breathing.
Customized Mouth Guards offer the highest level of protection and are made by a dentist. The process involves taking an impression of the child's teeth and constructing the mouth guard based on this mold. While more expensive and requiring a longer fitting time, customized mouth guards provide superior comfort, orthodontic accuracy, and are fully endorsed by the dentist.
If you have any questions or concerns about choosing the right mouth guard for your child, please contact our office.
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