At Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Chattanooga, we understand that children love to stay active and participate in sports, but with that activity comes the risk of injury, especially to their teeth and mouth. Whether your child is playing football, basketball, soccer, or engaging in other sports, protecting their smile is essential. One of the most effective ways to safeguard your child’s teeth during sports is by wearing mouthguards for kids.
In this blog, we’ll highlight the importance of mouthguards for kids in Chattanooga, Singal Mountain, Ooltewah, Jasper, Athens, Cleveland, TN and Ringgold, Fort Oglethorpe, Trenton, Dalton, GA, how to choose the right one and tips for proper care to ensure lasting protection.
Why Mouthguards for Kids Are Crucial for Protecting Their Teeth
A mouthguard for kids is a dental appliance designed to cover the teeth and gums to protect against injury during physical activities. Sports, particularly contact sports like football, hockey and martial arts, put children at greater risk for mouth injuries. A direct impact to the face can cause broken or chipped teeth, jaw fractures and damage to the gums.
Here’s why mouthguards for kids are so important:
- Prevent Tooth Injuries: Mouthguards for kids are specifically designed to absorb the force of impact and protect your child’s teeth from damage. Injuries like chipped or knocked-out teeth can be costly and painful to treat, but wearing a mouthguard for kids can help avoid these dental problems.
- Protect Soft Tissues in the Mouth: In addition to safeguarding teeth, a mouthguard for kids also helps protect the gums, lips and cheeks from cuts and bruising caused by accidental impacts to the face.
- Minimize the Risk of Concussions: Recent studies suggest that mouthguards for kids can help reduce the risk of concussions in some sports by absorbing some of the impact from blows to the head. Though they are not a foolproof method, mouthguards for kids can help lessen the severity of injuries.
- Boost Confidence: Knowing that their teeth and mouth are protected, children can feel more confident and focused on the game without worrying about injury. A mouthguard for kids allows them to participate in sports safely and enjoy the experience.
How to Choose the Right Mouthguard for Kids
Selecting the right mouthguard for kids is essential to ensure proper protection and comfort. There are several types of mouthguards to choose from, each offering different levels of fit and protection. Here are the three main options:
- Stock Mouthguards: Stock mouthguards for kids are pre-formed and ready to wear, making them the least expensive option. However, they tend to be bulky and may not fit comfortably, which could make it difficult for your child to speak or breathe. While they provide some protection, stock mouthguards for kids are not the most effective choice for optimal dental safety.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Boil-and-bite mouthguards for kids are made from thermoplastic material that softens when heated. After boiling the mouthguard, your child can bite into it to mold it to their teeth for a better fit. This option offers a more customized fit than stock mouthguards for kids, providing increased comfort and protection, although it may not be as precise as a custom-fit mouthguard.
- Custom-Fit Mouthguards: For the best protection, comfort and durability, a custom-fit mouthguard for kids is the ideal choice. These mouthguards are made by a dentist and are tailored to fit your child’s mouth perfectly. Custom-fit mouthguards for kids provide the highest level of protection and ensure your child’s teeth are well-protected during sports.
When choosing a mouthguard for kids, consider these factors:
- Comfort: The mouthguard should fit snugly and comfortably, allowing your child to breathe and speak easily.
- Protection: A high-quality mouthguard for kids will offer full protection against dental injuries and oral damage.
- Durability: Choose a mouthguard for kids that will last throughout the season without losing its shape or effectiveness.
- Ease of Use: Ensure your child can comfortably wear the mouthguard for kids for extended periods during practices and games.
Caring for Your Child’s Mouthguard
After you’ve selected the perfect mouthguard for kids, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure it remains in good condition for long-term use. Here are some tips for taking care of your child’s mouthguard:
- Clean After Each Use: Always clean the mouthguard for kids after every use by rinsing it with warm water and mild soap. This helps eliminate bacteria and food particles. Avoid using hot water, as it may distort the shape of the mouthguard.
- Proper Storage: Store the mouthguard for kids in a ventilated case when it’s not in use. This prevents it from being damaged or contaminated and helps it stay dry and clean.
- Regular Inspections: Check the mouthguard for kids regularly for any signs of wear, tear, or damage. If the mouthguard becomes cracked or doesn’t fit properly, it’s time for a replacement.
- Remove Before Eating or Drinking: Encourage your child to remove their mouthguard for kids before eating or drinking. This will help prevent the buildup of bacteria and ensure the mouthguard stays in good condition.
- Replace When Necessary: As your child grows, their mouthguard may no longer fit properly. Be sure to replace the mouthguard for kids at the start of each sports season or sooner if it no longer provides a proper fit.
Request Your Consultation in Tennessee or Georgia Today
Sports can be an exciting and essential part of your child’s life, but protecting their teeth and mouth should always be a priority. By choosing the right mouthguard for kids and maintaining it properly, you can help prevent dental injuries and ensure your child’s smile stays safe while they enjoy the game. At Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Chattanooga, we’re here to help you choose the best mouthguard for kids and offer any guidance you need to keep their teeth protected. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to request your child’s appointment. Let’s work together to safeguard your child’s smile during every sports season!
