Why Your Favorite Little Athlete Needs a Sports Guard

As we gear up for another school year, you’re filling your little one’s backpack with all the supplies they need for success. Your children’s dentist in Preston Center, Dr. Allison Fowler, wants to make sure you don’t leave one important thing off the list: a custom-fitted sports guard. It’s often forgotten, but smile protection is just as important as a helmet or pads for many common sports.

When You Need a Sports Guard

Your child should wear a sports guard for any activity that could cause their teeth to come into contact with a hard surface or flying object. Football and wrestling are obvious, but parents often don’t realize there is a real risk for dental injuries in sports like basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and other softer-contact activities. Even track and field can pose a risk, depending on the event. And when it comes to your child’s smile, it’s always better safe than sorry!

Multiple Benefits of Custom-Fitted Sports Guards

Pharmacies and grocery stores sell one-size-fits-all or “boil and bite” options for sports guards, but these devices just do not provide adequate protection for your little one’s smile. A mouthguard that is not created specifically for your child’s mouth is likely to be uncomfortable, meaning it will probably get tossed to the side when it’s game time. And no mouthguard can work if it’s not worn. Or worse, even if your child does wear it, a loose/ill-fitting sports guard may fall out in moments of impact.

New research also shows there is one more significant benefit to a customized sports guard opposed to a one-size-fits-all solution: they actually reduce the risk of concussion. That’s especially big news for young athletes, for whom repeated head injuries take a scary toll.  

So what’s the conclusion? For better oral and overall health, a custom-fitted mouthguard is worth the investment — and then some.

Taking Care of a Custom-Fitted Sports Guard

A sports guard can usually last for about six months, or one full season, with proper care and maintenance. Make sure your child knows to clean the device before and after each use. We will provide you with a hard, ventilated case for storage between games and practices. Use it! Do not expose the mouthguard to hot water while cleaning, as that could cause it to warp and lose its fit. If you notice the device has become worn, damaged, or has changed shape, do not hesitate to get in touch with your dentist. A proper fit is essential for maximum effectiveness when it matters most.

Protect Your Favorite Smile This Year!

One of the best ways you can support your young athlete is by making sure they stay safe on the field or court. Keep their smile healthy and whole by investing in a custom-fitted mouthguard! Schedule an appointment with your family dentist in Preston Center to start the school year off with all the right equipment.