As a dental health expert at Station Road Dental Aldergrove, I understand the vital role that mouthguards play in protecting the oral health and safety of children who participate in sports. Whether your child is an enthusiastic recreational player or a competitive athlete, properly fitted and consistently worn mouthguards can make all the difference in preventing potentially devastating dental injuries.
The Risks of Dental Injuries in Sports
Sports-related dental injuries are alarmingly common, especially among children. According to the American Dental Association, over 5 million teeth are knocked out every year due to sports-related accidents. These incidents can result in fractured, displaced, or completely avulsed (knocked-out) teeth, as well as soft tissue injuries to the lips, cheeks, and tongue.
Beyond the immediate pain and trauma, such dental emergencies can have long-lasting consequences. Losing a permanent tooth at a young age can lead to difficulties with speech, chewing, and self-esteem. Untreated dental injuries may also require complex and costly restorative treatments, such as root canal therapy, dental implants, or fixed prosthetics like crowns and bridges.
The Protective Power of Mouthguards
Mouthguards are custom-fitted, removable dental appliances designed to cushion the teeth and surrounding structures in the event of a blow to the face or jaw. By absorbing the impact of a collision or fall, mouthguards can significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries and other orofacial trauma.
Studies have shown that athletes who wear properly fitted mouthguards are 60 times less likely to sustain an injury to the anterior teeth and 200 times less likely to suffer a catastrophic injury like a jaw fracture. The protection provided by mouthguards can also extend beyond the teeth, helping to prevent concussions and other head and neck injuries.
Types of Mouthguards
There are several different types of mouthguards available, each with its own unique features and benefits:
Stock Mouthguards
These are pre-formed, one-size-fits-all devices that can be purchased over-the-counter. While inexpensive and widely available, stock mouthguards offer the least amount of customization and protection, and they may not fit properly, compromising their effectiveness.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
These mouthguards are made of a thermoplastic material that softens when heated, allowing the wearer to bite down and mold it to the shape of their teeth. Boil-and-bite guards provide a more personalized fit than stock options, but they still may not offer the same level of protection as custom-made mouthguards.
Custom-Made Mouthguards
Crafted by a dentist or dental laboratory, custom-made mouthguards are the gold standard for sports safety. These devices are precisely molded to the unique contours of the individual’s mouth, ensuring a comfortable, secure, and highly protective fit. Custom mouthguards are generally the most expensive option, but their superior performance and durability make them a worthwhile investment.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard
When selecting a mouthguard for your child, it’s essential to consider factors such as the sport they play, their age and physical development, and their unique dental anatomy. For example, younger children may require a different type of mouthguard than older, more experienced athletes.
Soft, flexible mouthguards are generally recommended for younger children, as their jaws are still developing, and they may be more prone to discomfort or difficulty breathing with a bulkier appliance. As children grow older and their jaws become more stable, they can transition to more rigid mouthguards that provide enhanced protection.
It’s also important to ensure that the mouthguard fits properly. A well-fitting mouthguard should be comfortable, stay in place during activity, and allow for normal speech and breathing. Poorly fitting mouthguards can be dislodged during play, rendering them ineffective and potentially increasing the risk of injury.
If you’re unsure about the best mouthguard option for your child, consult with the team at Station Road Dental Aldergrove. Our experienced dental professionals can evaluate your child’s needs and recommend the appropriate mouthguard, as well as provide guidance on proper care and maintenance.
Mouthguard Maintenance and Replacement
Proper mouthguard care is essential to ensure its continued effectiveness. After each use, the mouthguard should be thoroughly cleaned with cold water and a soft-bristled toothbrush, and stored in a well-ventilated container. Avoid exposing the mouthguard to heat, which can cause it to become deformed or discolored.
It’s also important to replace mouthguards regularly, as they can become worn down over time. The American Dental Association recommends replacing mouthguards at the beginning of each new sports season, or if the device becomes damaged, ill-fitting, or discolored.
For custom-made mouthguards, your child’s dentist can provide guidance on the appropriate replacement schedule based on their growth and development. Regular dental check-ups can also help ensure that the mouthguard continues to fit properly as your child’s teeth and jaws change.
The Benefits of Mouthguards Beyond Sports
While mouthguards are primarily designed to protect against sports-related injuries, they can also offer benefits in other areas of oral health. For example, some children may grind or clench their teeth during sleep, a condition known as bruxism. Using a nightguard or occlusal splint can help prevent the wear and tear on teeth that can result from this habit, as well as alleviate associated symptoms like jaw pain and headaches.
Mouthguards may also be recommended for children who have orthodontic appliances, such as braces or retainers. These devices can help protect the delicate components of the orthodontic appliance, as well as the wearer’s teeth and soft tissues, from accidental impacts or collisions.
Promoting a Mouthguard-Wearing Culture
Encouraging children to consistently wear their mouthguards during sports and other physical activities can be a challenge, but it’s a crucial step in maintaining their oral health and safety. As dental professionals, we can work together with parents, coaches, and sports organizations to promote a culture of mouthguard wearing.
One effective strategy is to educate both children and their caregivers on the importance of mouthguards and the risks of not wearing them. By highlighting real-life stories of dental injuries and their long-term consequences, we can help instill a sense of urgency and responsibility in young athletes and their families.
It’s also important to ensure that mouthguards are easily accessible and affordable. Many schools and sports leagues now provide custom-made mouthguards for their participants, or offer discounted options through local dental practices like Station Road Dental Aldergrove.
By making mouthguards a standard and expected part of the sports equipment, we can normalize their use and help to protect the dental health and well-being of children in our community.
Conclusion
Protecting the oral health and safety of our children is a top priority at Station Road Dental Aldergrove. As a dental health expert, I firmly believe that the consistent use of properly fitted mouthguards is one of the most effective ways to prevent devastating sports-related dental injuries.
By educating families, collaborating with sports organizations, and providing access to high-quality mouthguard options, we can work together to ensure that every young athlete in our community is equipped with the protection they need to enjoy their favorite sports safely and confidently. Visit https://www.stationroaddentalcentre.com to learn more about our comprehensive dental services and how we can help safeguard your child’s oral health.
