Maintaining your child’s oral health involves teaching them the essentials of brushing, flossing, and eating a balanced diet. However, despite these efforts, accidents can still occur. Whether they’re involved in contact sports or having fun on the playground, there’s always a risk of dental injuries. To safeguard their teeth and oral structures from potential trauma, read on to understand the crucial role of dental mouthguards.
Why Are Mouthguards Important for Sports Safety?
Mouthguards are essential for athletes of any age or skill level, as studies indicate that sports-related activities account for about one-third of all facial and dental injuries. They’re extra important for children and can help ensure proper dental development. Similar to helmets, mouthguards shield the mouth and face from trauma, including chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth.
Typically made from laminate or soft plastic, mouthguards distribute impact force over a wider area and absorb some of the shock. This helps protect your child’s teeth, gums, cheeks, and jaw, significantly reducing the risk and severity of injuries.
4 Ways To Care for Your Child’s Mouthguard
If your young athlete needs a dental mouthguard, proper care is essential. Here are some tips to ensure it stays in great condition:
- Rinse it off – Make sure to rinse your child’s mouthguard with cold water regularly. Before each use, clean it with a toothbrush and toothpaste to eliminate any bacteria and debris. For extra freshness, you can also soak the mouthguard in a non-alcoholic mouthwash before giving it a final rinse with water.
- Store the mouthguard – Have your child use a sturdy, rigid storage case to keep their mouthguard safe when they’re not using it.
- Don’t use hot water – Always clean the mouthguard with cool water, as hot water can cause it to warp or become misshapen.
- Check it regularly – Regularly inspect your child’s mouthguard for any signs of wear and ensure it still fits properly. If it no longer fits well, schedule an appointment with their pediatric dentist to identify the problem and get a new mouthguard if necessary.
Mouthguards are a simple, cost-effective solution to protect your child’s smile during contact sports like soccer or football. By using a mouthguard, they can enjoy their activities while keeping their smile healthy and intact for years to come.
About the Practice
At Sprout Dentistry for Kids of Allen, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional dental care for children, focusing on fostering healthy smiles from a young age. Our approach combines expert techniques to protect and nurture delicate teeth, accommodating kids of all ages, including those involved in contact sports. We offer dental mouthguards to ensure their smiles stay safe throughout the season. To schedule an appointment or learn more about our services, call us at (469) 663-0098 or visit our website.