As parents, we go to great lengths to ensure our children’s safety. Helmets, knee pads, and seat belts are common protective measures, but one essential piece of safety equipment is often overlooked—a mouthguard. While many associate mouthguards with contact sports, they play a crucial role in protecting your child’s teeth even at home.
The Importance of a Mouthguard at Home
1. Preventing Dental Injuries from Falls
Children are naturally active, which increases their risk of falls and accidents. Whether they’re running around the house, jumping on furniture, or simply playing with siblings, a small misstep can result in serious dental injuries. A mouthguard provides a cushion that absorbs the impact, reducing the risk of broken or knocked-out teeth.
2. Protection During Recreational Activities
Many children engage in recreational activities at home, such as:
- Trampoline jumping
- Skateboarding in the driveway
- Playing with ride-on toys
These activities, while fun, come with risks of falls and collisions. A mouthguard adds an extra layer of protection to safeguard your child’s smile.
3. Teeth Grinding and Clenching (Bruxism)
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is common in children, especially during sleep. Chronic grinding can lead to:
- Tooth wear and fractures
- Jaw pain and headaches
- Increased sensitivity
A custom-fitted mouthguard from a Dentist in Rolla, MO can help protect your child’s teeth from the effects of grinding, ensuring long-term oral health.
Types of Mouthguards for Home Use
1. Stock Mouthguards
These are pre-formed and ready to wear. While they offer basic protection, they may not fit well and can be uncomfortable.
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Available at most drugstores, these mouthguards soften in hot water and mold to your child’s teeth for a better fit than stock mouthguards.
3. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
A custom mouthguard from Wedgewood Dental offers the best protection, comfort, and durability. These are designed specifically for your child’s teeth, ensuring a snug fit and maximum safety.
How to Encourage Your Child to Wear a Mouthguard
1. Explain the Importance
Talk to your child about how a mouthguard can protect their teeth from injury. Show them videos or pictures of dental injuries to reinforce the need for protection.
2. Choose a Fun Design
Many mouthguards come in different colors and patterns. Let your child pick a fun design to make wearing it more exciting.
3. Lead by Example
If you or an older sibling use a mouthguard for sports or teeth grinding, your child is more likely to follow suit.
Additional Benefits of Using a Mouthguard
1. Prevents Soft Tissue Injuries
A mouthguard not only protects teeth but also prevents injuries to the lips, cheeks, and tongue. If your child accidentally bites down hard, the soft cushion of the mouthguard reduces the chances of cuts and bruises.
2. Supports Proper Jaw Alignment
Children who grind their teeth or clench their jaws during sleep can benefit from a mouthguard that helps maintain proper jaw positioning, reducing stress on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
3. Reduces Risk of Concussions
While not a substitute for a helmet, a well-fitted mouthguard can help absorb impact forces, reducing the severity of concussions in case of an accident.
Common Myths About Mouthguards
1. Only for Contact Sports
Many parents believe mouthguards are only needed for football, hockey, or boxing. However, dental injuries can happen during everyday activities at home, making mouthguards essential beyond sports.
2. Uncomfortable to Wear
While stock mouthguards can feel bulky, custom-fitted options are designed for comfort and allow easy breathing and speaking.
3. Expensive Investment
Though custom mouthguards have an upfront cost, they save money in the long run by preventing costly dental procedures resulting from accidents.
Caring for a Mouthguard
To ensure longevity and hygiene, follow these care tips:
- Rinse the mouthguard before and after each use.
- Store it in a ventilated container.
- Avoid exposing it to high temperatures.
- Regularly inspect for signs of wear and replace when necessary.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Your Child
1. Consult a Dentist
Visiting a professional at Wedgewood Dental ensures that you get the best mouthguard suited to your child’s unique needs. A well-fitted mouthguard offers better comfort and protection than over-the-counter options.
2. Consider the Level of Protection Needed
If your child grinds their teeth heavily at night, a thicker night guard may be necessary. For active children, a sports mouthguard designed to absorb shock is the best choice.
3. Ensure Proper Fit and Comfort
A mouthguard should fit snugly without causing discomfort. Custom-fitted options provide the best results as they mould perfectly to your child’s teeth structure.
Conclusion
A mouthguard is a simple yet effective tool in preventing dental injuries, whether from falls, recreational activities, or teeth grinding. Investing in a high-quality mouthguard ensures your child’s teeth stay safe and healthy.
Visit Wedgewood Dental today to learn more about the best mouthguard options for your child.
