At Rhode Island Children’s Dentistry, we know many of our patients participate in a number of different competitive sports. Sporting accidents are one of the most common reasons for dental emergencies. These accidents are extremely preventable especially when wearing a properly designed mouth guard.
An effective mouth guard holds teeth in place, resists any tearing or damage, allowing for normal speech and breathing. Depending on the bite, the mouth guard should not only cover the teeth, but the gums as well.
Why Should My Child Wear a Mouth Guard?
As a parent, it comes naturally to ensure that your child is safe at all times, especially while playing or participating in sports and physical activity. Wearing a mouth guard will protect your child’s teeth and prevent any possible chipping or breaking. Mouth guards are extremely important to protect from any possible sport related injury to the lips, cheeks, tongue, and jaw bone. Mouth guards also contribute to the protection of a child from head and neck injuries, including concussions.
Does My Child Need a Mouth Guard?
Whether your child actually needs a mouth guard or not, it generally depends on the type and extent of the sport they actively participate in. Your child should wear a mouth guard during any sports based activity where there is a risk of head, face, or neck injury. Utilizing a mouth guard during practice or game time, is a wise equipment choice for many sporting activities.
It is recommended by orthodontists and dentists to wear a mouth guard for the following sports:
- Basketball
- Karate
- Baseball
- Hockey
- Skateboarding
- Soccer
- Football
- Gymnastics
- And much more!
Types of Mouth Guards
When it comes to selecting a mouth guard for your child, allow your child to choose one that feels the most comfortable. Be sure to find a mouth guard that is tear-resistant, comfortable, and well-fitted to your child’s mouth.
There are many options of mouth guards to choose from:
- Custom-Made: These mouth guards are made by your dentists at Rhode Island Children’s Dentistry, personally, to fit your child and provide the utmost protection and safety to their teeth.
- Boil & Bite: These types of mouth protectors can be bought at many sporting good stores and drug stores.
- Stock: These are typically tend to be less expensive and come pre-formed ready for your child to wear.
Dentists at Rhode Island Children’s Dentistry can show you and your child how to properly wear and utilize the right mouthguard.
Caring for your Child’s Mouth Guard
Similar to braces or retainers, it is important to care for your child’s mouth guard by storing it properly and keeping it clean and in working condition.
- Gently scrub the mouth guard after each use with toothbrush and paste.
- Store mouth guard in a protective case when not in use.
- Do not wear a retainer with a mouth guard. If your child is actively in braces treatment, ask your dentist or orthodontist for a brace guard.
- Do not leave the mouth guard in the sun or hot water, as it may cause the guard to melt or become deformed.
- Have your child’s dentist check the mouth guard at appointments to ensure that the mouth guard is in good working, protective shape!
For more information about custom-made mouth guards for your child, contact your dentist at Rhode Island Children’s Dentistry!
