Preventing Injuries: Why Kids’ Sports Mouthguards Are Essential

Youthsports are an incredible way for kids to stay active, develop teamwork skills, and build confidence. However, the thrill of playing sports brings along with it the risk of injury, especially to the face and mouth. Sports-related injuries are estimated to be around 13-39% of all dental injuries in children, according to the American Dental Association. Many of these can be prevented by a simple yet effective solution: kids’ sports mouthguards.
This blog explores why sports mouthguards are crucial, the risks of not wearing them, and how parents can ensure their child’s safety while engaging in sporting activities.
Why Mouthguards Are a Must for Kids in Sports?
Physical sports such as football, basketball, hockey, and gymnastics all pose a risk of oral injuries. A properly fitted sports mouthguard acts as a shock absorber, reducing the risk of dental trauma, jaw fractures, and even concussions.
According to the National Youth Sports Foundation for Safety, if an athlete is not wearing a mouthguard, he has a 60 times greater chance of suffering injury to his teeth. Many parents ignore this very important piece of equipment, believing helmets or face shields are sufficient.
Investment in kids’ sports mouthguards helps to protect that beautiful smile but can also help prevent expensive dental repair and even lifelong oral health issues.
Types of Injuries Prevented by Sports Mouthguards
Kids’ sports mouthguards protect in many ways. Below are the most common injuries they prevent:
1. Dental Fractures and Tooth Loss
Broken or knocked-out teeth are among the most common sports-related dental injuries. Imagine your child taking a sudden hit to the face while playing soccer. Without a mouthguard, the impact could crack a tooth or even knock it out completely. Replacing a missing tooth can cost thousands of dollars, but a mouthguard dramatically reduces this risk.
2. Soft Tissue Injuries
Mouthguards also protect the lips, cheeks, and tongue from cuts and bruises caused by accidental bites or impacts. A properly fitted mouthguard cushions the inside of the mouth and prevents sharp edges of teeth from causing damage.
3. Concussions and Jaw Fractures
Though mouthguards primarily protect the mouth, they can also reduce concussion severity and even jaw injuries, as they act as a shock absorber cushioning the lower jaw against impacts so that some of the shocks might not be sent to the brain.
How to Choose the Best Mouthguard for Your Child?
Not all sports mouthguards are created equal. Here’s a guide to picking the best option for your young athlete:
1. Custom-Fitted vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards
Store-bought mouthguards are cheaper, but they do not offer the same level of protection and comfort as custom-fitted ones. A dentist can make a mouthguard specifically for your child’s teeth, ensuring a snug fit and maximum safety.
2. Material and Thickness
Opt for strong, shock-absorbing materials like EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate). Thicker mouthguards are better at protecting the teeth, especially for high-contact sports like football and hockey.
3. Replace the Mouthguard Regularly
Mouthguards will naturally wear out over time or as your child’s teeth grow and change. Inspect the mouthguard regularly for signs of wear and replace it at least once a year or sooner if it becomes loose.
Encouraging Your Child to Wear a Mouthguard
Let’s face it—getting kids to wear a mouthguard consistently can be a challenge. Here are some tips to make it easier:
- Start Early: Introduce the habit of wearing a mouthguard as soon as your child begins playing sports.
- Make It Fun: Choose mouthguards with bright colors or patterns that your child loves.
- Lead by Example: If you play sports, show your child that you wear a mouthguard too.
- Explain the Importance: Teach your child how mouthguards protect their teeth and overall health.
Kids’ sports mouthguards do not serve the purpose of accessory; they provide an essential requirement for safety gear. From helping prevent dental fractures to reducing the risk of concussions, this gear plays an important role in keeping young athletes safe. Considering how painful, costly, and, in some cases, lifelong many dental injuries prove to be, the cost of a quality mouthguard is money well spent when it comes to peace of mind.
As parents, it’s our job to keep our kids safe as they participate in the sports of their choice. Talk to your pediatric dentist to fit a mouthguard custom-designed for your child today—and every child deserves to play hard and shine bright.