Sports give kids a chance to get some exercise, make friends, learn about teamwork, and most of all---have fun! However, sports can be rough on the body, which is why most athletes---professional or otherwise---wear protective gear. Helmets, shin guards, shoulder pads, elbow pads, and mouth guards keep young athletes safe so they can continue playing and practicing safely.
Types of Athletic Mouthguards
Teeth are strong, but even a wall of enamel can’t deflect a heavy hit. For sports like wrestling and football, a mouthguard is essential. There are a few different types of mouthguards available: stock mouth guards, boil and bite, and custom-fitted.
A stock mouthguard is a generic type of mouthguard that is preformed and ready to wear. Most sporting goods stores sell them, but because of their generic shape, it might be difficult to get it to stay in place or conform to an individual’s mouth. They are bulky and they’re not very protective because they don’t fit to the shape of the mouth and are not recommended by most dentists.
Boil and Bite Mouthguards
The boil and bite mouthguards a step up from stock mouthguards as they allow for a more secure fit. These mouthguards are made from a thermoplastic material that is softened when placed in hot water, allowing the wearer to bite down into the material and shape the mouthguard around the teeth.
Custom Athletic Mouthguards
A custom-fitted mouthguard is the best option because it is the most comfortable and secure. First, a dentist will make an impression of the teeth. The material used to make the mouthguard is then molded around the model of the teeth, creating a comfortable, custom fit. Because the mouthguard is shaped exactly to the patient’s teeth, it won’t shift around in the mouth and is therefore the most protective of mouthguard types. Mouthguards cover the top teeth usually, and should always be used in any contact sport
Though it would be better for a child to not get injured during a game or during practice, it’s always better to be cautious and wear protective gear just in case. After all, sports are thrilling because they are not totally predictable, and with that unpredictability comes the risk of injury. It’s actually estimated that 13-39% of dental injuries are connected to sports. But if kids are wearing the right gear including a custom-fitted mouth guard, they will stand a chance at preserving their beautiful smile and oral health.
If your child is involved in a sport and you want to research protective gear further, consider the benefits of a custom athletic mouth guard versus store-bought. At Cool Mountain Kids, we can make a mouth guard perfectly suited for your child’s teeth so that they are kept snug and secure. Ask Dr. Derek about options for custom mouth guard for your athlete