Protecting your child’s smile while playing sports is essential. Sports-related injuries to the mouth and jaw are some of the most common injuries suffered by athletes.
Mouthguards help protect teeth and gums from injury. If your son or daughter participates in basketball, boxing, hockey, football, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, racquetball, rugby, track and field, skateboarding, skiing and snowboarding, skydiving, soccer, surfing, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting or wrestling, it is recommended by the American Dental Association that a mouthguard be worn.
Types of Mouthguards
Choosing the right mouthguard is essential. There are three basic types: the pre-made mouthguard, the “boil-and-bite” fitted mouthguard, and a custom-made mouthguard.
When choosing a mouthguard, be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, comfortable and well fitted to your child’s mouth, easy to keep clean, and does not prevent proper breathing.
If the patient wear braces or a retainer, it is imperative for him or her to wear a mouthguard. Dr. Parker can show your child how to wear a mouthguard properly and how to choose the right one.
Taking Care of Your Child’s Mouthguard
Similar to a retainer, braces, or any special dental appliance, it is crucial to take care of your child’s mouthguard by storing it properly and keeping it clean. Here are a few simple ways to keep your youngster’s mouthguard clean and working correctly:
- Gently scrub the mouthguard after each use with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Store it in a protective case.
- Do not leave the mouthguard in the sun or in hot water, because it may melt or become deformed.
- Replace it at the beginning of every new sports season. You should also replace your child’s mouthguard if you notice it has become worn and no longer fits properly.
- A retainer should not be worn with a mouthguard. If your child wears braces, we will help design a mouthguard to protect the teeth and braces.
- Do not chew on or cut pieces off a mouthguard.
- Bring the mouthguard to each dental checkup so we can check to make sure it’s still in good shape!
Our goal is to help 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.
