Parents often believe that mouthguards are only necessary for collision sports like football or hockey. But accidents can happen at any moment – a fall, crash, or even an unexpected elbow in so-called “non-contact” competition. That is why custom-made sports mouthguards are nonetheless a good choice for young athletes. They’re not just about protection – these are an investment in preserving your child’s smile in the long run.

Hidden Dental Risks in Non-Contact Sports

Sports such as basketball, soccer, gymnastics, volleyball, or skateboarding do not seem to be dangerous to the teeth, but research has a different story to share. The American Dental Association (ADA) informs that those sportsmen who don’t use a mouthguard are 60 times more prone to experience dental trauma than those who use one.

Even in the absence of roughing it up or tackling, accidental ball, floor, or player contact can chip or crack teeth or knock them loose. A court fall or ill-timed catch can take just seconds, and those seconds can mean long-term dental woes unless proper protection is worn.

How Mouthguards Protect Your Child’s Smile

A customized mouth guard acts as a shock absorber for your child’s gums and teeth. It takes the impact that would otherwise lead to fractures or damage to soft tissue. Over-the-counter guards give some protection, but custom mouth guards are more comfortable, more secure, and more protective.

Custom-fitted designs are crucial for children, whose teeth and jaws are still developing. While stock or boil-and-bite options can fall out during activities, a guard created by a dentist remains firmly in place without constricting speech or breathing, making it perfect for games and practices alike.

Beyond Impact: The Additional Benefits

Although the reason for wearing a mouthguard is to avoid dental trauma, some extra benefits are:

• Protection of the Jaw: Mouthguards minimize pressure on the jaw joints, which prevents pain or sprains after repeated movements.
• Prevention of Soft Tissue Injuries: The smooth, fitted surface protects the lips, tongue, and cheeks from accidental biting.
• Enhanced Concentration: Feeling their teeth are protected enables young athletes to focus intensively on their game, instead of focusing on being hurt.

In fact, sports mouthguards can even be designed to reduce the severity of concussion by spreading some of the shock that travels down the jaw upon impact – another reason why they remain useful even in low-impact activity. 

Why Relying on “Low Risk” Can Be Risky

Parents typically view the reason for dental trauma as intense competition, but accidents can also occur very easily in the school gym, while practicing, or on the weekend. Non-contact is not accident-free. The National Youth Sports Foundation estimates that oral trauma in children is most common in non-contact sports.

Whether your kid is learning a routine in gymnastics or diving for a volleyball, one slip is all it might take to result in a cracked tooth or worse – something that’s entirely preventable with the right-fitting mouthguard.

Fostering Right Habits at an Early Age

Teaching your child the importance of dental protection is all about teaching them good, healthy habits that will be with them their whole life. Encourage them to wear their mouthguard for all activities, not just when they’re playing games. Basic care and storage can prolong it and keep it clean.

Schedule a visit today with Jupiter Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics in Allen and learn more about custom mouthguards and how they can protect your little one’s teeth year-round.