Safeguarding Smiles: Why Mouthguards Matter in Sports | Kids Dentist Near Me

When your child participates in sports, safeguarding their smile is essential. Dental injuries from sports can lead to painful, costly, and long-term problems. According to the American Dental Association, athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries. At Caring Kids Dental, we encourage parents in Ontario to make mouthguards a part of their child’s sporting gear to help prevent these injuries.

Why Mouthguards Are Essential for Your Child’s Safety

Mouthguards are designed to protect your child’s teeth, gums, and soft tissues, such as the lips and tongue, from injury during sports activities. Whether your child is playing football, basketball, or any other contact sport, wearing a mouthguard can help prevent:

• Broken or knocked-out teeth
• Cuts and bruises in the mouth and gums
• Jaw injuries
• Concussions, as they can reduce the impact of blows to the jaw

By absorbing shock, mouthguards provide crucial protection against the force of impacts that could otherwise lead to painful dental injuries.

Types of Mouthguards

There are different types of mouthguards to suit your child’s needs, offering varying levels of protection and comfort:

• Stock Mouthguards – These are ready to wear right out of the package. While convenient, they often don’t fit well, which may interfere with your child’s ability to breathe and speak, and may not offer optimal protection.
• Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards – Made from thermoplastic material, these mouthguards can be softened in hot water and then molded to fit your child’s teeth. They offer a better fit and more comfort than stock mouthguards, providing more effective protection.
• Custom-Fitted Mouthguards – The best option for children who participate in contact sports. A children’s dentist in Ontario can create a custom mouthguard designed specifically for your child’s mouth, providing superior fit, comfort, and protection.

Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Your Child

Selecting the right mouthguard depends on the sport your child plays. Sports like football, hockey, and wrestling have a higher risk of dental injuries, so a mouthguard with excellent protection is crucial. For younger children, a smaller, child-sized mouthguard that fits their developing teeth and jaw is necessary.

Mouthguards don’t just protect teeth, as they can also improve your child’s athletic performance. By stabilizing the jaw, mouthguards help reduce muscle fatigue and improve breathing, which can enhance endurance and overall performance.

Ensuring Proper Fit and Care

To maximize protection, your child’s mouthguard must fit correctly. An ill-fitting mouthguard can be uncomfortable and may not provide proper protection. It’s essential to check the mouthguard regularly for signs of wear and replace it if it becomes damaged.

Encouraging your child to wear a mouthguard during sports can significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries. By taking this simple precaution, you’re helping ensure their safety and preserving their smile.

If you’re interested in a custom-fitted mouthguard for your child, contact Caring Kids Dental today to schedule a consultation with our dentist in Ontario. We’re here to help keep your child’s smile healthy and protected while they enjoy their favorite sports!