As a pediatric dental professional, one of our primary concerns is safeguarding children’s teeth—not just from cavities but also from injuries. Whether your child is an avid athlete or just starting out in sports, the importance of wearing a mouthguard cannot be overstated. A mouthguard serves as a critical protective barrier, reducing the risk of dental trauma and preserving your child’s smile for years to come.
Why Mouthguards Matter
Children’s teeth are vulnerable to impact injuries, especially during high-contact activities. A blow to the face can result in chipped, broken, or even knocked-out teeth, as well as injuries to the lips, cheeks, and tongue. A properly fitted mouthguard absorbs and distributes the force of an impact, reducing the risk of severe dental injuries.
Beyond protecting the teeth, mouthguards also help to prevent jaw fractures and concussions. The cushioning effect of a mouthguard can minimize the force transmitted to the jaw and skull, offering an extra layer of protection for young athletes.
High-Risk Sports for Dental Injuries
Certain sports have a higher likelihood of oral and facial injuries due to their physical nature. The sports with the highest frequency of dental trauma include:
- Basketball (due to accidental elbows, falls, and collisions)
- Football (high-contact sport with frequent tackles)
- Soccer (head-to-head contact and collisions)
- Hockey (both ice and field hockey involve sticks, pucks, and high-speed play)
- Wrestling (close contact increases the risk of facial injuries)
- Lacrosse (fast-moving balls and physical play contribute to injury risk)
- Martial Arts & Boxing (direct strikes make mouthguards essential)
Among these, the worst dental injuries often occur in hockey, football, and combat sports due to the high speed and intensity of impacts.
The Probability of Injury Reduction with Mouthguards
Wearing a mouthguard significantly decreases the likelihood of dental injuries. Studies suggest that athletes who do not wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to suffer dental trauma compared to those who do. In football, where mouthguards are mandatory, dental injuries are significantly lower compared to basketball, where compliance is less stringent. The American Dental Association estimates that mouthguards prevent 200,000 oral injuries each year across all sports.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard
There are three main types of mouthguards:
- Stock Mouthguards – Pre-formed and ready to wear but often bulky and uncomfortable.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards – Molded to the child’s teeth after being softened in hot water, offering better fit and protection.
- Custom-Fitted Mouthguards – Designed by a dentist for the best fit, comfort, and protection.
For the best protection, a custom-fitted mouthguard is the ideal choice, particularly for children engaged in high-risk sports.
A Small Investment for a Big Benefit
A mouthguard is a simple yet essential piece of protective gear that can prevent costly and painful dental emergencies. Investing in a quality mouthguard now can save parents and children from the trauma of dental injuries, lengthy treatments, and expensive restorative work.
Encourage your child to wear a mouthguard every time they play sports. By taking this proactive step, you are protecting their smile and ensuring they can continue to enjoy the activities they love without unnecessary risks. At Smiles for Kids, we are happy to help parents find the best mouthguard solutions for their young athletes. Contact us today to learn more about protecting your child’s smile!
