If you’re a parent to an athlete in the making, it’s a no-brainer to gear them up with the necessary safety equipment. But have you stopped to consider the importance of protecting their smiles as well? Our dentist in Grayslake has seen firsthand the effects that not wearing a mouthguard can have on athletes, resulting in painful injuries and lasting damages. In fact, the American Dental Association (ADA) notes that over 200,000 oral injuries could be prevented annually by participants wearing the proper mouthguard.
Who Should Wear Them?
Kids ages 8-12 who participate in sports such as rugby, soccer, football, lacrosse, basketball or baseball should absolutely wear a mouthguard to protect from damage. There are other sports such as track or cross country that may require a mouthguard as well; consider if your child is running in a race and accidentally trips head-first into the ground. Even if your child participates in some recreational sports such as rock climbing or skateboarding, mouthguards are beneficial. You’d rather be safe than sorry.
What About Mouthguards with Braces?
Yes, your child can (and should) wear a protective mouthguard when they have braces. In the case of impact, the mouthguard will help protect your child’s soft tissues like their lips and gums, from further damage.
Types of Mouthguards
There are different types of mouthguards that protect the teeth and gums. Pre-formed mouthguards come ready to wear from sporting stores, however, they are bulky and may not protect as well as other forms. Custom-fit mouthguards from our dentist in Grayslake is a better alternative, as these offer optimal comfort and protection.
The next time your child has an appointment, make sure to let us know if you’re interested in learning more about our custom-fit mouthguards.
