Does your child enjoying playing sports? Do you, as a parent, feel apprehensive and nervous that they will get hurt during practice or a game? You’re not alone. A published paper in the Sports Medicine journal stated that an estimated one-third of all sports-related injuries occur around the mouth and face. This can be a frightening statistic for many parents; however, it is believed that mouthguards for kids in Katy are highly effective at reducing the risk of these types of accidents. In this article, we will look at the purpose of these unique oral appliances as well as how your child’s pediatric dentist can help.
Why Mouthguards Are Necessary When Playing Sports
If your child enjoys football, they’ll need a helmet and shoulder pads. If it’s volleyball, they’ll need knee and elbow pads. And if it’s soccer, you can expect to buy cleats and shin guards. No matter the sport, there is a good chance proper attire is required to participate. While safeguarding areas of their body from harm is important, why not extend that same protection to their teeth and gums?
With the help of a mouthguard, your child’s chances of experiencing a serious dental injury dramatically decrease. Whether it is made out of laminate, soft plastic, or another material, these oral devices are designed to fit over teeth and lessen the blow should they face a hard-hitting tackle, elbow to the mouth, or spiked ball to the face. Instead of the impact focusing on one particular area (i.e., a tooth), it is spread out, minimizing the potential for a chipped, cracked, or knocked-out tooth.
What Type of Mouthguard is Best?
If your child’s pediatric dentist in Katy recommends a mouthguard or you request one before the start of the season, it may be possible to have a customized appliance made for your child. These can be created after taking impressions of your child’s teeth and gums. In a few weeks, your little one or teen will receive a personalized device that fits comfortably inside their mouth and offers maximum protection.
If a customized mouthguard is not possible, you can always shop for a stock or boil-and-bite mouthguard, both of which are effective. A stock mouthguard is cheapest and premade, so it’s more of a one-size-fits-all option. A boil-and-bite relies on you to boil the mouthguard and then have your child bite down once it is no longer too hot to capture an impression.
If you are able, it is best to have a customized mouthguard created for your child, as this will ensure the appliance fits correctly and doesn’t slip out or become uncomfortable during a game.
This proactive step to safeguarding your child’s smile will pay off in the end. Not only will they be better protected while engaging in their favorite sport, but you’ll have greater peace of mind while watching from the stands.
About the Author
As a board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Adeel Khan believes in protecting young smiles from serious injuries. Realizing not all accidents are avoidable, he and his team at Happy Chompers Pediatric Dentistry are pleased to provide children with customized mouthguards. Whether it is a contact sport or more physically demanding outdoor activity, these oral appliances can reduce a child’s chances of serious injury and a sudden trip to the emergency dentist. If you want to better equip your child before the season starts, visit our website or call (832) 789-8348.