The Importance of Mouthguards for Young Athletes 🦷

Playing sports is a fun and rewarding part of childhood, but it comes with a risk of injury. As a dedicated kids dentist in Columbia, we want to remind you that protecting your child’s teeth is just as important as wearing a helmet or pads. A mouthguard, also known as a sportsguard, is an essential piece of equipment for any sport or activity that involves a risk of collision, falls, or contact with other people or equipment. This includes sports like football, soccer, basketball, lacrosse, and even recreational activities like skateboarding.

Protecting Against Dental Injuries 🛡️

Dental injuries are incredibly common in sports. In fact, up to 80% of all sports-related dental injuries affect the upper front teeth. A mouthguard is designed to protect these teeth and the jaw from impact. Wearing a mouthguard can significantly reduce the risk of chipped or broken teeth, tooth displacement, and even serious jaw injuries. As a leading kids dentist in Columbia, we strongly advocate for the use of mouthguards to help prevent these painful and costly injuries.

Types of Mouthguards 🤸

There are a few different types of mouthguards available to protect your child’s smile. You can find preformed/stock mouthguards and “boil and bite” mouthguards at most pharmacies and sporting goods stores. These are good options, especially for children with braces. If your child has braces, it’s best to use a preformed/stock mouthguard that can fit over their upper teeth without interfering with the braces.

For the best fit and protection, consider a custom-made mouthguard. At our practice, a trusted kids dentist in Columbia, we can create a custom mouthguard specifically molded to your child’s teeth. These provide a more secure fit and superior protection.

A Safer Way to Play 🏆

Preventing dental injuries is key to ensuring your child has a safer and more enjoyable time playing the sports they love. We at [Your Practice Name], your trusted kids dentist in Columbia, are here to help you choose the right mouthguard and ensure your child’s smile stays healthy and beautiful. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact our office—the best kids dentist in Columbia for your family’s dental needs.