Plus, How to Prevent Maxillofacial Trauma in Student Athletes
Team sports offer a fantastic way for young people to stay active, have fun, and learn valuable life skills. However, as a parent, you also want to ensure your child is safe while on the field or court. While helmets and pads are standard protective gear, mouth guards for sports are often overlooked. This essential equipment can help prevent severe injuries to your child’s teeth, jaw, and face.
So, before your child suits up for the next sports season, here’s everything you need to know about proper dental care for student-athletes.
Ouch! The Risks of Sports Injuries
According to the American Dental Association, athletes who don’t wear mouth guards for sports are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries. A study in the Journal of the American Dental Association found 13-39% of all dental injuries are sports-related! This is why a teeth protector for sports is crucial for every athlete.
High, Medium, Low: Risk by Sport
The risk of dental and facial injuries varies based on the sport. Wondering whether you need mouthguards for basketball or other specific sports? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry classifies sports by risk:
- High risk: Boxing, football, ice hockey, lacrosse, martial arts
- Medium risk: Basketball, soccer, wrestling, squash
- Low risk: Baseball, softball, volleyball, water polo
No matter your child’s sport, a dental sports guard is often a smart safety precaution. We suggest that you consult with your dentist to discuss your child’s risk or needs in greater detail.
Whether you need a mouth guard for sports like football, or routine dental care, Dr. Shah and the team at Pleasant Dental are here to protect your smile.
Call us to schedule your appointment (336) 738-3663
5 Reasons Why Custom Mouth Guards Win the Game
While generic mouth guards for sports are available over the counter, custom dental mouth guards from a dentist offer superior protection and comfort. Here’s why.
- Perfect fit: A custom mouth guard is molded to your child’s teeth, ensuring a snug, comfortable fit that won’t slip or fall out.
- Better protection: The precise fit provides optimal coverage and shock absorption. It reduces the risk of injuries like chipped teeth, knocked-out teeth, jaw fractures, and cuts to the lips, tongue, and cheeks. Custom mouth guards may even help prevent concussions by cushioning blows to the jaw.
- Durability: High-quality materials make custom dental mouth guards more durable than generic substitutes.
- Comfort: A well-fitted dental protector is less likely to interfere with breathing or speaking. So, the device is more comfortable for your child to wear throughout the game.
- Compliance: Because they’re comfortable, kids are more likely to wear a custom mouth guard throughout practice and games.
Prevention Beyond Just a Mouth Guard for Sports
Athletic mouth guards are essential but are not the only way to protect your child. Here are some additional tips.
- Education is Key: Make sure your child gets adequate training in safe playing techniques for their sport.
- Use Proper Equipment: Use well-fitting helmets with face guards for high-risk sports like football and hockey.
- Help Enforce the Rules: Encourage coaches and referees to enforce rules that prevent dangerous play.
- Schedule Regular Dental Checkups: Regular dental care helps maintain your child’s oral health and reduces the risk of injury.
What to Do in Case of Maxillofacial Injury
If your child does sustain a mouth or jaw injury during sports, seek immediate dental care. Even minor injuries can have severe consequences if left untreated. Pleasant Dental offers emergency dental services to promptly address sports-related injuries and maxillofacial trauma.
Pleasant Dental Is Your Custom Mouth Guard Dentist
Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your child’s mouth, face, and smile. Schedule an appointment with Pleasant Dental for a custom mouth guard fitting before the season starts. Our experienced team can create a perfectly fitted athletic mouth guard that offers maximum protection and comfort for the playing season.
Remember, prevention is always better than a cure. Every athlete deserves to play with confidence and safety, so protect that winning smile!
Schedule a visit with Pleasant Dental today to discuss custom dental mouth guards and comprehensive dental care for your student-athlete.
“Taking care of your body is the best investment you can make.”
— LeBron James
