When parents think about sports safety equipment, helmets and pads often come to mind first. However, one of the most important pieces of protective gear is often overlooked: a mouthguard. A properly fitted mouthguard can help protect your child’s teeth, lips, tongue, and jaw from serious injuries that could require extensive dental treatment.
The good news is that mouthguards aren’t just for football players. Many young athletes can benefit from wearing one.
High-Contact Sports
Some sports have a higher risk of collisions, making mouthguards essential. Children should always wear a mouthguard when participating in sports such as:
- Football.
- Hockey.
- Lacrosse.
- Wrestling.
- Rugby.
- Boxing.
- Martial arts.
These activities involve frequent contact with other players or equipment, increasing the chances of chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth.
Sports You Might Not Expect
Even sports that aren’t traditionally considered contact sports can result in dental injuries. Falls, accidental collisions, or being struck by sports equipment can happen unexpectedly.
Consider having your child wear a mouthguard during activities like:
- Basketball.
- Soccer.
- Baseball.
- Softball.
- Skateboarding.
- Gymnastics.
- Cheerleading.
- Volleyball.
A simple slip or an accidental elbow can lead to a painful dental emergency. Wearing a mouthguard adds an extra layer of protection.
Why a Mouthguard Matters
A mouthguard acts as a cushion, absorbing the force of an impact before it reaches your child’s teeth and jaw. Wearing one can help reduce the risk of:
- Chipped or fractured teeth.
- Knocked-out permanent teeth.
- Cuts to the lips and cheeks.
- Jaw injuries.
- Injuries to braces or other orthodontic appliances.
Preventing these injuries not only protects your child’s smile but can also save your family time, discomfort, and unexpected dental expenses.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard
While store-bought mouthguards provide some protection, they don’t always fit comfortably. A poorly fitting mouthguard may be bulky, make breathing difficult, or fall out during play.
A custom mouthguard made by your pediatric dentist is designed specifically for your child’s mouth. It provides a secure fit, greater comfort, and better protection, making it much more likely that your child will actually wear it throughout the game or practice.
If your child has braces, your pediatric dentist can also recommend a mouthguard designed to protect both their teeth and orthodontic appliances.
No matter which sport your child loves, protecting their smile should be part of their game plan. Wearing a mouthguard is a simple habit that can prevent painful injuries and help keep your young athlete on the field instead of in the dental chair. If your child participates in organized sports or recreational activities, ask your pediatric dental team about the best mouthguard for their needs.
About the Author
Dr. Susan Podray-Donovan has spent more than a decade in the dental field so far. She earned her dental doctorate at Temple University and later obtained her orthodontic certification from the same school. To stay on top of the latest developments in her field, Dr. Podray-Donovan stays involved in the Georgia Society of Orthodontics and is Vice President of the Georgia Association of Orthodontists. Need preventive care for your child? If so, book an appointment online or call our Cumming office at (678) 456-5572.