Participating in sports can be a fantastic way for children to stay active, learn teamwork, and develop discipline. However, it also comes with the risk of dental injuries. Mouthguards are an essential piece of equipment designed to protect your child’s teeth during sports.
Mouthguards absorb and dissipate the force of impacts, create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, and help keep the jaw in place to prevent injuries like chipped teeth and soft tissue damage.
At The Children’s Dental Centre, our certified paediatric dental specialists are dedicated to offering the highest quality dental care for children of all ages and needs. From routine checkups to mouthguards and other specific needs, we are ready to support your child’s needs and smile with our dental services and expertise.
What Is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a flexible device worn over your teeth during athletic activities. Its primary function is to protect your teeth, lips, gums, and jaw from injuries caused by physical contact or accidental falls.
Types of Mouthguards
There are 3 main types of mouthguards.
Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and ready to wear. While they are the least expensive option, they often provide the least protection and comfort because they cannot be adjusted to fit the user’s mouth.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are made from thermoplastic material, these guards can be softened in hot water and then moulded to fit the teeth. They can offer a better fit than stock mouthguards but are not fully customizable for your child’s specific needs.
Custom-fitted mouthguards are crafted specifically by a dentist or dental technician. They can often provide the highest level of comfort, protection, and adaptability.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard
We will take several factors into account when fitting your child for a mouthguard, such as:
- the size of their mouth
- their bite
- the type of sport or activity they are involved in
- whether they wear braces or other dental appliances
We will tailor the fit to meet your child’s specific needs for comfort and protection.
The Science Behind Mouthguards
Shock Absorption
Mouthguards work by absorbing and dissipating the force of impacts that would otherwise be transferred to your teeth and jaw. When a blow is delivered to the face, the guard spreads the impact energy across a wider area, helping reduce the likelihood of dental fractures and soft tissue injuries.
Teeth Protection
Mouthguards create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth. This can prevent them from crashing into each other during a collision, which can result in broken or chipped teeth. Additionally, a mouthguard can shield the teeth from collisions with sports equipment or other people.
Jaw Stabilization
By keeping the jaw in place, mouthguards also help prevent jaw fractures and dislocations. The guard can act as a cushion that stabilizes the lower jaw, reducing the risk of sudden shifts or movements that could cause serious damage.
Tips for Mouthguard Care
Rinse Before & After Use
Mouthguards can accumulate bacteria and debris, especially when used during physically intense activities. Therefore, it is essential to rinse the mouthguard with cold water before and after each use. Cold water helps gently clean the surface without altering the fit. This quick rinse can remove saliva, food particles, and other contaminants that might have accumulated during use.
Clean Your Child’s Mouthguard Regularly
In addition to rinsing, it is crucial to clean mouthguards thoroughly on a regular basis. After rinsing, scrub the mouthguard with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a bit of mild soap. This helps eliminate any stubborn residue and bacteria. After scrubbing, rinse the mouthguard thoroughly with cold water to remove any soap residue.
Never use hot water for cleaning a mouthguard, as it can distort the shape of the mouthguard, rendering it less effective and uncomfortable to wear.
Store Your Child’s Mouthguard Properly
Proper storage of your child’s mouthguard can prolong its lifespan and maintain its effectiveness. Always store the mouthguard in a sturdy container that has ventilation holes. The ventilation allows air to circulate, preventing the buildup of moisture and bacterial growth. Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as excessive heat can warp the mouthguard.
Check for Wear & Tear
You should regularly inspect your child’s mouthguard for damage and other issues to help make sure it remains safe and effective. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, holes, or changes in shape.
If you notice that the mouthguard is worn out, damaged, or no longer fits comfortably, it is time to replace it. A damaged mouthguard cannot provide adequate protection and might even cause discomfort or irritation.
Safeguard Your Child’s Teeth
Proper use of mouthguards can reduce the likelihood of dental injuries during sports. By taking the right precautions, you can make sure your child enjoys their favourite activities safely. Remember, the best mouthguard is one that fits well, feels comfortable, and offers maximum protection.
We are ready to meet all your child’s needs for preventive dental care. Book an appointment with us to talk more about mouthguards and the other ways we can help protect your child’s bright smile.