Should My Sporty Child Get a Mouth Guard?

It is incomparable joy to see your child succeed in his or her favorite sport activities. For every win, your child’s confidence is boosted and makes all the training worth the time and effort. There is, however, a big sigh of relief after every game. Every parent is just as thankful that they are not hurt or injured. It is important that you equip them with the ample protection to make them enjoy their choice of sports and give you some peace of mind.

Mouth guards are highly recommended for children who engage in contact sports (basketball, soccer, football). But kids who participate in non-contact sports (gymnastics) or other physical activities (rollerblading, skateboarding or mountain biking) can also benefit of the mouth guard. Your kids might think that a protective mouth gear will make them un-cool with their teammates or wearing them will be uncomfortable. The earlier they become exposed to its uses, the more they will be accustomed to wearing them as if it is second skin already.

Here are the three main reasons why mouth guards are important to your active and sporty child:

1. Mouth guards protect your teeth from cracks, fractures and even displacement. The basic purpose of the mouth guard in sports is to protect one’s teeth from chipping, breaking, or even losing it! An accidental blow on the mouth can result to a displaced tooth, not to mention that it may even lead to an unexpected expensive dental repair. The mouth guard serves as a barrier for the teeth and cushions the blow on the teeth, thereby preventing knocked out teeth.

2. Mouth guards prevent facial scarring from tongue and cheek injuries. Unexpected biting of the tongue and cheek are very common when actively playing one’s sports. Recovery from tongue and cheek injuries takes weeks, and is proven to be very uncomfortable. This is something that one would want to avoid. Wearing a mouth guard shields the soft tissue in the mouth from one’s tooth surfaces.

3. Mouth guards help avoid jaw fractures. As unavoidable as it is, a direct hit on one’s head can lead the teeth to clash together and put pressure on one’s jawbones. The mouth guard provides the flexibility to displace the impact, preventing possible jaw injuries that can lead to surgery.

The mouth guard will not be your child’s favorite fashion accessory but help them realize that their active lifestyle should also be complemented with proper oral protection. There are different types of mouth guards for your different needs and budget options, but keep in mind that they should fit comfortably and be tear resistant.

Being a supportive parent by being on top of the game when it comes to their well-being is a win-win situation for your sporty child and you. See a dentist from Oraderm Care Clinic and choose the best customized oral protection you can provide your loved ones.