The new school year is here! Are you excited to watch your child participate in school sports? No doubt, you want your son or daughter to be safe as they are developing team skills and enjoying the physical benefits of regular exercise. Therefore, you should strongly consider getting your child a mouthguard for the new school year. Why are mouthguard so important? This blog post explains.
Mouthguards Prevent Injury
Mouthguards can do much to prevent injuries to the teeth, gums, lips, and other oral tissues. In fact, one systematic data review found that mouthguard users were between 82% and 93% less likely to suffer dentofacial injuries than non-users.
Mouthguards can also protect oral appliances and prosthetics, such as braces, bridges, crowns, and more. Therefore, not only can they spare your child from pain, but they can also save you money by reducing the risk that you will end up with a big emergency dentistry bill.
Your child’s school might require a mouthguard for certain sports, including football, wrestling, and anything else that is classified as a contact sport. However, they are also a good idea for sports that are traditionally considered non-contact. After all, you never know when an accident might occur!
Why Choose a Custom Mouthguard?
There are a few different types of mouthguards. The lowest-priced ones are available over-the-counter. They might be pre-made, or they could be of the boil-and-bite variety. These products can provide a degree of protection for your child, but they are far from ideal.
The best mouthguards are custom-designed by a dentist. They are more comfortable than OTC options, which means your child is more likely to wear them. Plus, they provide greater protection. They are especially valuable when it comes to reducing the risk of concussions in football. In fact, one study found that high school football players with OTC mouthguards had more than twice the risk of mild traumatic brain injuries and concussions as those who used custom mouthguards.
Sports are great for kids, but they do come with a risk of injury. You can protect your baby’s smile by making sure they have a high-quality mouthguard.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Erick Anderson is an experienced dentist who is proud to provide top-quality oral care for families in Colorado Springs. If it is time for your child’s back-to-school checkup, or you want to learn more about custom mouthguards for sports, we warmly invite you to book an appointment. Contact our friendly team at 719-593-0988.