In our office we see far too many children with damage to teeth that could have been prevented by wearing a mouthguard. Our mission in caring for your children’s dental health goes beyond reminding them to brush and floss regularly.
Athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to damage their teeth. Often times these injuries will result in permanent damage to oral structures which require medical intervention. Yet, most parents will admit that their children do not wear a mouthguard during organized sports. If mouthguards offer a simple and relatively inexpensive way to help dramatically decrease the risk of oral injuries, why aren’t more kids wearing them?
Many children do not wear mouthguards while playing sports because they are not required to wear them, even though other equally protective materials, such as helmets and shoulder pads are mandated. At a time when a good football or batting helmet may cost $200, mouthguards can be one of the least expensive pieces of protective equipment available. Not only do mouthguards save teeth, they help protect jaws and can also prevent traumatic injuries such as concussions.
The most effective mouthguard should be comfortable, resistant to tearing, and resilient. A mouthguard should fit properly, be durable, easily cleaned, and not restrict speech or breathing. It should cover the teeth and, depending on the patient’s bite, also the gums.
We believe if you start your child out wearing a mouthguard while they are young it will be a natural routine to always reach for a mouthguard when suiting up for play. At Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph, our pediatric dentists are happy to recommend the best option of dental protection for your child. By discussing the various types of mouthguards available, from those custom-made in our office, to ready-to-wear ones available at any sporting goods store, you can make an informed decision on how to best protect your child.
It is important to remember damaged teeth do not grow back. Our motto at Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph is “We make smiles happen”. Protect that perfect smile – always insist that your child wear a mouthguard.
Call our office at 973-989-7970 for an appointment to discuss the use of mouthguards or any concerns you have about your children’s dental and oral health.