.webp){kind=logo}
April is National Youth Sports Safety Month, and while helmets, pads, and proper footwear often steal the spotlight, one small but mighty piece of equipment is just as crucial—the mouthguard. This simple device is often overlooked but can mean the difference between a confident, smiling young athlete and a trip to the emergency room. If your child plays sports, especially contact or high-impact ones, now is the time to understand why mouthguards aren't optional—they're essential.
It's no secret that sports offer tremendous benefits to children. Teamwork, discipline, fitness, and fun all come together on the field or court. However, youth sports can also pose real risks, especially when it comes to dental injuries.
Every year, thousands of children suffer sports-related dental injuries, including:
According to the American Dental Association, athletes who don't wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries than those who do. That's not just a statistic—it's a wake-up call for parents.
A mouthguard is a soft plastic or laminate device worn over the upper teeth during athletic activity to protect the mouth from impact. It cushions blows to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face, or jaw.
There are three main types of mouthguards:
While stock options may seem appealing due to cost, custom-fit mouthguards offer superior protection and are recommended for active kids in contact sports.
You might assume only high-contact sports like football or hockey require mouthguards, but dental injuries can happen in a wide range of activities, including:
Even non-contact sports can present risks through falls, collisions, or equipment mishaps. When in doubt, it's always better to be safe than sorry.
Mouthguards do more than just protect teeth. Some of the broader benefits include:
As soon as your child begins participating in organized sports—or even recreational activities that involve potential for contact—they should wear a mouthguard. That means as early as age six or seven, depending on the sport and the child's level of involvement.
Mouthguards must be replaced regularly, especially as children grow and their dental structures change. A good rule of thumb is to check the fit every season and replace it if worn, torn, or uncomfortable.
Pediatric dentists specialize in children's unique dental needs and can design custom mouthguards that are effective and comfortable. They consider your child's age, teeth alignment, oral development, and sport-specific needs.
Unlike one-size-fits-all guards, a professionally made mouthguard:
At Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry, your child's safety is our top priority. We believe every young athlete deserves to play, compete, and have fun—without risking their smile. Our experienced pediatric dental team offers custom-fitted sports mouthguards tailored to your child's mouth for optimal comfort and protection.
Whether your child is just starting soccer or gearing up for a high school lacrosse season, we're here to provide personalized care and guidance every step of the way. Don't wait until an injury happens. Protect your child's winning smile today with a custom sports mouthguard from your trusted Rockville Pediatric Dentistry Practice.
Call Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry today or book an appointment online now: www.shadygrovepediatricdentistry.com
Banjo affogato irure narwhal tote bag do church-key XOXO esse kale chips dolore. Esse synth 90's, banh mi mollit yr kale chips kogi quinoa. 90's poutine hashtag, authentic deep v disrupt cornhole tilde prism chicharrones taxidermy schlitz eu. Pug magna pariatur, mumblecore migas shabby chic kitsch est selvage poutine four loko offal godard.
© Copyright 2024 Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry.
Website by wonderist agency | privacy policy
.webp){kind=icon}