{"id":1339,"date":"2021-05-01T20:12:30","date_gmt":"2021-05-01T20:12:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nopokids.com\/?p=1339"},"modified":"2021-07-30T00:03:20","modified_gmt":"2021-07-30T00:03:20","slug":"the-importance-of-mouthguards-in-sports","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nopokids.com\/the-importance-of-mouthguards-in-sports\/","title":{"rendered":"The Importance of Mouthguards in Sports"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"TheIf your child loves sports, especially contact sports, you understand how important protective gear can be for your child\u2019s health and wellbeing. If not required by your child\u2019s league or association, it can be easy to forget to protect your child\u2019s smile while playing sports. According to the American Dental Association, 10-20% of all sports-related injuries are maxillofacial. Fortunately, many of these injuries can be prevented or the damage significantly minimized by using a mouthguard<\/a> while playing sports.<\/p>\n

What is a mouthguard?<\/h2>\n

A mouthguard is a cushioning oral appliance made of flexible material that fits snugly over your teeth to help protect against injuries to the teeth and mouth. Mouthguards also prevent the jaws coming together fully, reducing the risk of jaw joint injuries and concussion.<\/p>\n

Why should your child wear a mouthguard during sports?<\/h2>\n

A mouthguard is an oral device that should be an essential piece of equipment for all athletes of any age. In the same way that we wear helmets, knee pads, protective eyewear, and other supportive gear when engaging in certain activities, mouthguards help to prevent and minimize damage to your child\u2019s mouth and face. They act as an absorber for impact that can occur in sports and protect against chipped teeth, broken jaws, and damage to the soft tissues of the mouth.<\/p>\n

Mouthguards are often recommended in both competitive and recreational sports in which collision, contact, or high impact trauma are likely to occur. We encourage patients to wear their mouthguards during practice, training, and games. If your child wears braces, retainers, or other oral devices, ask your dentist about orthodontic mouthguards and what treatment options are right for you.<\/p>\n

Selecting The Right Type<\/h2>\n

These mouthguards vary in price and comfort, yet all provide some protection. Your child\u2019s mouthguard should have a comfortable fit but not restrict your ability to breathe or speak clearly. <\/p>\n

Custom<\/h2>\n

Your child\u2019s dentist can make you a customized mouthguard from an impression of their teeth. Though this option can be more expensive, it ensures a proper and comfortable fit.<\/p>\n

Boil and Bite<\/h2>\n

Boil and bite mouthguards are made of medical grade silicone and can be remolded several times if necessary. To use this type of mouthguard, the guard is heated to a boil and then after a brief cooling period, can be placed into the mouth to make an impression.<\/p>\n

Stock<\/h2>\n

These types of mouthguards are inexpensive and bought pre-formed and ready to wear. However, they often do not fit properly.<\/p>\n

Care and Replacement<\/h2>\n

Your child\u2019s dentist will tell you best how to care for your mouthguard. We recommend replacing your mouthguard every season or once it shows signs of wear, damage, or becomes loose and does not fit properly. For children and teenagers, mouthguards may need to be replaced more often as their mouths change as they grow.<\/p>\n

General care recommendations for mouthguards can include:<\/p>\n