Athletic Mouthguards for a New School Year

It may be hard to believe, but summer vacation is almost over. With a new school year right around the corner, you’re busy shopping for school supplies, meeting teachers, and picking out the perfect outfit. While you get everything ready for your child to have a successful year ahead, don’t forget about an athletic mouthguard. If your child plays sports, it’s just as important as their backpack when heading back to school. Whether they play football, baseball, or ride their bike to school, make sure their smile is protected. 

Importance of Athletic Mouthguards

No one ever expects a dental emergency to affect their family, but 1 in 6 Americans are in this situation annually. While many occur from untreated dental issues, accidents and trauma are also leading causes. A normal after school practice can turn into a knocked-out or broken tooth. 

According to the Journal of the American Dental Association, up to 39% of all dental injuries are sports-related. In addition, the American Dental Assistants Association reports that 10% of all athletes will experience a facial or dental injury during any given season. The American Dental Association has found that an athlete is 60 times more likely to experience dental damage with no mouthguard. 

Mouthguards are proven to reduce the risk of dental trauma for athletes of all ages. The Academy of General Dentistry estimates that it can prevent 200,000 sports-related injuries. Besides protecting the teeth, gums, and jaw, research has also found they can reduce the risk of concussions. 

Despite the benefits of mouthguards, only 22% of children wear one when playing sports. If your child is heading onto the field without one, you could be placing their smile at risk of irreversible damage. 

Invest in the Best Protection

You can pick up an athletic mouthguard at a store while shopping for school supplies, but you’ll still leave your child’s smile vulnerable to injuries. OTC mouthguards aren’t custom-fit, which can increase the likelihood of injuries. Not to mention, they aren’t made of durable materials, so they may not offer the best protection. 

Instead, it’s better to invest in a customized mouthguard from their dentist. It will be made of high-quality, comfortable materials and fit your child’s mouth like a glove for maximum protection. You can ensure your child’s smile is protected before the season starts by asking their dentist about a mouthguard during their next cleaning and checkup. 

Although you might be a little busier than usual as your child heads back to school, schedule their preventive appointment. Besides getting the mouthguard they need, you’ll ensure their mouth is healthy so a toothache doesn’t keep them out of the classroom.

About Dr. Valerie HaughtingtonDr. Haughtington achieved her dental degree from the Indiana University School of Dentistry and has regularly pursued higher education in advanced services. As a mother, she understands the importance of compassionate, quality care for young smiles. If it’s time for your child’s next cleaning and checkup, or they need a mouthguard, contact our office today.