Importance of Mouthguards When Playing Sports
Jul 01, 2024
Mouthguards are crucial for young athletes engaged in various sports. These protective devices shield teeth, gums, and jaws from injuries that can occur during physical activities. At Bloomfield Pediatric Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of mouthguards for our young patients to ensure they can enjoy sports safely. Understanding the role of mouthguards helps parents and children appreciate their value in preventing dental injuries. This guide explores why mouthguards are essential, the types of injuries they prevent, and how to care for them.
What Are the Different Types of Mouthguards Available?
There are several types of mouthguards available, each offering different levels of protection and comfort:
- Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-made and come in standard sizes. They are the least expensive but also the least comfortable and protective.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Made from thermoplastic material, these are softened in hot water and then shaped to the mouth. Compared to standard mouthguards, they provide a more snug fit.
- Custom-Fit Mouthguards: These mouthguards, prescribed by the mouthguard dentists near you, provide the best fit, comfort, and protection. They are more expensive but worth the investment for serious athletes.
What Types of Injuries Can Mouthguards Prevent?
Mouthguards can prevent a range of dental injuries, ensuring that young athletes can play sports without the fear of damaging their teeth or gums. Here are some common injuries that mouthguards help prevent:
- Broken Teeth: Mouthguards absorb impacts that might otherwise fracture teeth.
- Chipped Teeth: They protect against minor chips from less severe impacts.
- Tooth Loss: Severe impacts can knock out teeth; mouthguards provide a protective barrier.
- Jaw Injuries: They help prevent fractures and dislocations by cushioning the jaw.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Mouthguards reduce the risk of cuts to the lips, cheeks, and tongue.
How Do Mouthguards Protect Your Teeth and Gums?
Mouthguards work by acting as a shock absorber, distributing the force of an impact across a broader area and reducing the risk of severe injury. Here’s how they protect:
- Impact Absorption: Wearing a mouthguard lessens the force that hits your teeth and gums because its material distributes and absorbs impact.
- Stabilization: Mouthguards help keep teeth in place, preventing them from being knocked out or misaligned.
- Soft Tissue Protection: They cover the sharp edges of teeth, preventing cuts to the inside of the mouth.
Are Custom-Fit Mouthguards Better Than Store-Bought Ones?
Custom-fit mouthguards, provided by a pediatric dentist near you, offer superior protection compared to store-bought options. Here’s why:
- Perfect Fit: Custom mouthguards are made to fit the exact shape of your child’s mouth, providing better protection and comfort.
- Durability: They are made from high-quality materials that last longer and offer better protection.
- Breathability: A custom-fit mouthguard allows for easier breathing and speaking.
- Comfort: Because they fit perfectly, they are more comfortable to wear, encouraging consistent use.
Can Mouthguards Help Prevent Concussions?
There is evidence to suggest that mouthguards can help reduce the risk of concussions. While their primary function is to protect the teeth and jaw, they also absorb some of the impact forces that could otherwise affect the brain. Here is how:
- Shock Absorption: Wearing a mouthguard helps lessen the blow to the brain and skull by distributing the impact power.
- Jaw Stabilization: They help stabilize the jaw, preventing it from being forced backward, which can cause concussions.
- Indirect Protection: By preventing dental injuries, mouthguards also reduce the risk of related head injuries.
What Sports Require the Use of Mouthguards?
Many sports require or recommend the use of mouthguards to protect young athletes from dental injuries. These include:
- Football: Mandatory at all levels due to high-impact risks.
- Hockey: Both ice and field hockey players use mouthguards to protect against pucks, sticks, and falls.
- Basketball: Recommended to protect against accidental elbow or ball impacts.
- Boxing and Martial Arts: Essential for protecting against punches and kicks to the face.
- Soccer: Recommended for goalkeepers and field players to prevent dental injuries from collisions.
How Should You Care for and Maintain Your Mouthguard?
A mouthguard will last longer and work better if you take the time to properly care for it. Here are a few pointers:
- Clean Regularly: Rinse the mouthguard before and after each use with cool water. Occasionally, use a toothbrush and mild soap for a deeper clean.
- Store Properly: Keep the mouthguard in a ventilated container to prevent bacterial buildup.
- Check for Wear: Regularly inspect the mouthguard for signs of wear and tear. Replace it if it becomes worn out.
- Avoid Heat: To avoid warping, keep the mouthguard out of bright sunshine or very hot water.
How Often Should You Replace Your Mouthguard?
The amount of usage and the kind of mouthguard determine how often you should replace it. Here are some general guidelines:
- Custom-Fit Mouthguards: These typically last longer and may need to be replaced every 1-2 years, depending on wear.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These should be replaced more frequently, usually every 6-12 months, as they wear out faster.
- Stock Mouthguards: These should be replaced as soon as they show signs of wear or become uncomfortable.
Additionally, children and teenagers should replace their mouthguards more often as their mouths grow and change. Regular dental check-ups can help determine when it’s time for a new mouthguard.
Conclusion
Mouthguards are vital for protecting young athletes from dental injuries. They safeguard teeth, gums, and jaws, reducing the risk of serious damage. If you’re looking for the most comfortable and effective mouthguard, a custom-fit is the way to go. By prioritizing their oral health and ensuring they wear a mouthguard during sports activities, parents can help protect their child’s smile and enhance their overall athletic performance.
Book Your Child’s Appointment for a Custom-Fit Mouthguard Today!
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Ensure your child has the best protection while playing sports. Schedule an appointment with Bloomfield Pediatric Dentistry to get a custom-fitted mouthguard. Prioritize your child’s safety and oral health. Contact us now to book your visit with a trusted pediatric dentist in Bloomfield, CT.