Having a mouthguard is an essential part of protecting your child while they participate in sports. Athletic mouthguards, also known as sports mouthguards or mouth protectors, are designed to cushion the blows that could potentially cause dental trauma and other injuries. Therefore, parents need to learn about the different types of mouthguards available today and choose one that best suits their children’s individual needs. This article provides a complete guide to athletic mouthguards/sports guards for children – from what they are, why they are needed & how to choose them – so you can make an informed decision when purchasing.
Types of Mouthguards
Mouthguards come in several varieties, each providing protection and comfort. The most common mouthguards used for sports are:
– Custom mouthguards
Custom mouthguards are the most expensive type, but they also offer the most significant level of protection, as they are professionally made to fit your child’s mouth precisely. They must be ordered from a dentist or other qualified professional; however, they can provide superior comfort and an exact fit that ensures maximum protection.
– Stock mouthguards
Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and more affordable than custom mouthguards, but they only sometimes fit well or stay in place when playing sports.
– Boil and bite mouthguard
Boil and bite mouthguards come ready to be provided with boiling water. They are relatively inexpensive and form a better fit than stock mouthguards but are less precise and effective than custom mouthguards.
Why Are Mouthguards Important?
Mouthguards play an essential role in preventing dental trauma while playing sports. According to the American Dental Association, mouth injuries account for approximately 10 million dentist visits yearly, most of which occur among children and adolescents who participate in organized sports like football, hockey, basketball, and baseball. In addition to protecting your child’s teeth, mouthguards can help protect the mouth’s soft tissues from lacerations and limit jaw movement that could lead to concussions or other head injuries.
How to Choose a Mouthguard
When selecting an athletic mouthguard for your child, it is essential to consider their age, sports activity level and mouth size. Here are some dental tips on how to choose the right mouthguard:
– Determine which type of mouthguard best suits your child’s sport.
– Make sure you buy a mouthguard that fits properly and securely – if it does not fit closely enough against your gums, it will not provide adequate protection.
– Look for comfortable, durable mouthguards and easy to talk with.
– Encourage your child to wear the mouthguard every time they participate in a sport.
Athletic mouthguards/sports guards provide an essential layer of protection for children participating in organized sports – protecting their teeth and mouth from dental trauma, lacerations and head injuries. With the variety of mouthguard types available, parents need to understand their options and decide which mouthguard best suits their child’s needs. Following the tips outlined above can help ensure that you select a mouthguard that fits properly and provides the necessary level of protection.
FAQs
Q: Are mouthguards necessary for all sports?
A: Not necessarily, but mouthguards are recommended for any contact sport or sport involving flying objects, such as baseball and basketball.
Q: Can mouthguards be shared amongst siblings?
A: Mouthguards should not be shared between siblings because their different mouth sizes could cause the mouthguard to fit improperly and lead to inadequate protection.
Q: How often should mouthguards be replaced?
A: It is essential to regularly inspect your child’s mouthguard for signs of wear and tear. If it appears worn down, broken or stretched out, it is time to replace it with a new one. It is also recommended to replace mouthguards at least once a year.
Q: Are mouthguards challenging to clean?
A: Not at all! Mouthguards should be cleaned after every use with a toothbrush and toothpaste or mouthwash, then rinsed thoroughly with cold water. You can also put it in the dishwasher for extra cleaning power.