Mouthguards

Summer is a great time for children to stay active and enjoy their favorite outdoor activities. But with summer fun often comes the risk of physical injuries, especially to the mouth and teeth. Speaking of physical injuries, children can get injured playing contact sports, going for a swim, or riding their bikes. And these injuries can affect vital parts of the body, as in the case of dental injuries. This is why it is vital to consider mouthguards as part of your child's summer gear.

Mouthguards are designed to help reduce the risk of dental trauma and injuries. They're beneficial for children in contact sports or adventurous outdoor activities. Studies show that mouthguards can significantly reduce the incidence and severity of mouth injuries in children. And, with the right guard, our kids can stay safe and enjoy their summer activities confidently. If you are looking for information about mouthguards, fortunately for you, this blog post discusses the importance of mouthguards for children's summer activities.

How Do You Choose the Right Mouthguard for Your Child?

When choosing a mouthguard for your child, there are a few factors to consider. To help you narrow your search, here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a mouthguard for your child:

1. Type of Mouthguard: There are several types of mouthguards available, including custom-fit, boil-and-bite, and stock mouthguards. A dentist makes custom-fit mouthguards to fit your child's teeth perfectly. Boil-and-bite mouthguards can be purchased at a sporting goods store and molded to fit your child's teeth. Stock mouthguards are the least expensive option, but they come in standard sizes and may need to fit your child's mouth better.

2. Age: Depending on your child's age, certain mouthguards may be more appropriate. For younger children with baby teeth, a cheaper option, like a stock mouthguard, may be suitable. However, a custom-fit or boil-and-bite mouthguard may be better for older children with permanent teeth.

3. Sport: Consider the sport your child is playing, and the level of contact involved. A more protective mouthguard is necessary for high-contact sports like football or hockey. A thinner mouthguard may be sufficient for less contact sports like basketball or soccer.

4. Comfort: Your child is more likely to wear a mouthguard if it’s comfortable. Choose a mouthguard that fits well and doesn't cause discomfort or irritation.

Overall, the most important thing is to ensure your child wears a mouthguard during any sports or physical activities that could lead to dental injuries. With the right mouthguard, you can help prevent oral injuries and keep your child's smile safe all summer.

How Do You Care for a Mouthguard?

It's essential to properly care for your child's mouthguard to ensure that it remains practical and hygienic:

  1. Rinse the mouthguard with cool water before and after each use. This will remove any debris or bacteria.
  2. Store the mouthguard in a case that has ventilation holes. By doing this, air will be able to circulate, and moisture buildup, which can encourage bacterial development, will be avoided.
  3. Clean the mouthguard with a toothbrush and toothpaste or use a special mouthguard cleaning solution. Avoid using hot water, as this can warp the mouthguard.
  4. Don't chew on the mouthguard or expose it to high temperatures, such as leaving it in a hot car or on a radiator. 5. Check the mouthguard regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or tears. If you notice any damage, replace the mouthguard immediately.

When Should You Replace a Mouthguard?

Mouthguards are a crucial piece of safety equipment for athletes of all ages. However, they are not invincible and can wear down over time. Therefore, it is essential to know when to replace them. Generally, a mouthguard should be replaced every six months to a year. However, this timeline can vary depending on the frequency of use and how well the mouthguard is cared for. If your child uses their mouthguard daily for practice and games, they may need to replace it more frequently.

You should also replace a mouthguard if it becomes damaged, such as if it cracks or develops holes. A damaged mouthguard can cause injury to your child's teeth and gums. Inspecting your child's mouthguard regularly is vital to check for signs of wear and tear. It would help if you also encouraged your child to clean their mouthguard after every use, following the manufacturer's instructions.

The Benefits of Using Mouthguards

1. Protection from dental injuries: Mouthguards are a barrier between your child's teeth and their cheeks, lips, and tongue. They provide crucial protection in the event of a direct blow to the mouth, preventing teeth from chipping, breaking, or being knocked out altogether.

2. Reduction of concussion risk: A properly fitted mouthguard can also help absorb shock and reduce the impact force on the head and neck. This, in turn, can lower the risk of concussions or other traumatic brain injuries.

3. Improved breathing and speech: Some mouthguards are designed with small breathing holes or custom-made to fit around your child's braces or other dental appliances. This allows for easier breathing and more explicit speech during sports activities.

4. Comfortable and customized fit: Choosing a high-quality mouthguard that fits your child's teeth and mouth will be much more comfortable to wear. They can talk, drink water, and breathe normally with a properly fitting mouthguard.

5. Increased confidence: Wearing a mouthguard can also boost your child's confidence. They'll be able to focus more on their game or activity without worrying about potential dental injuries. This can improve their overall performance and help them enjoy their summer activities.

Conclusion

A mouthguard is essential for your child's safety during sports and other summer activities. It protects the teeth, gums, and jaw, minimizing the risk of serious injury and allowing your child to play confidently and comfortably. Now that you know the different types of mouthguards and how to choose the right one for your child, invest in a high-quality product that fits well and offers maximum protection. And remember to properly care for and replace the mouthguard as needed to ensure continued effectiveness.

By prioritizing your child's safety and well-being, you can ensure that they have a fun and injury-free summer season. So don't wait any longer - choose a mouthguard today and give your child the peace of mind they deserve.