Kids mouthguards protect young teeth from injury during sports or high-impact activities. As oral health becomes a greater focus during childhood, the importance of preventive tools, such as mouthguards, cannot be overstated. A well-fitted mouthguard reduces the risk of broken teeth and dental trauma, effectively protecting smiles as they develop to keep them intact and healthy.
Kids mouthguards act as a cushion, absorbing and distributing impact forces that could otherwise damage the smile significantly. The need for them extends beyond just contact sports. Activities like biking, skateboarding, or gymnastics also carry the risk of falls and collisions. A properly made mouthguard can help mitigate these risks while supporting the overall structure of a child’s developing mouth.
Kids mouthguards are highly recommended for children who participate in any activity where contact or falls are likely. Their main purpose is to protect against fractured or knocked-out teeth, both of which would require extensive treatment. However, even minor dental injuries during childhood can be painful, costly, and potentially impact permanent teeth. A kids mouthguard offers an affordable and simple way to avoid these long-term issues.
Beyond protection, kids mouthguards can also offer benefits for children who grind their teeth during sleep, a condition known as bruxism. While more common in adults, nighttime grinding in children can lead to headaches, jaw pain, and enamel erosion. In these cases, a pediatric dentist may design a mouthguard specifically for overnight use.
There are different types of kids mouthguards: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-fitted. Stock mouthguards can be thought of as one-size-fits-all. They are pre-formed and can be bought over-the-counter (OTC) at a local pharmacy or drugstore. Their standardized nature can result in a poor fit and reduced effectiveness, although they are the most affordable option up front.
Another common OTC option is a boil-and-bite mouthguard. They tend to be pricier than stock mouthguards, but provide a slightly better fit. Caregivers boil the mouthguard, then have the child bite down to mold it to the teeth. Unfortunately, it is common for there to be inaccuracies in the fit that render the mouthguard less effective.
Custom mouthguards provided by a pediatric dentist are carefully tailored to fit a child’s unique dental anatomy. This provides superior protection and long-term wearability. In many cases, a custom-fit option also encourages better compliance among younger patients, as it is easier to speak and breathe while wearing it.
When properly fitted and worn consistently, kids mouthguards are highly effective at preventing dental injuries. The effectiveness depends largely on the type of mouthguard used. While stock versions are the least effective due to poor fit, boil-and-bite models offer moderate protection. Custom mouthguards, especially those crafted by a pediatric dentist, offer the highest level of comfort, safety, and protection.
Durability is another factor contributing to a mouthguard’s effectiveness. Custom options tend to last longer and resist wear and tear better than OTC varieties. However, regular evaluations by a pediatric dentist are still recommended to ensure that the mouthguard fits properly as the child grows.
Choosing the right mouthguard begins with a consultation. A pediatric dentist can evaluate the child’s oral structure, activity level, and any existing dental conditions before recommending the most appropriate type of mouthguard. Contact us today for an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://pediatric-dental-arts.com or call Pediatric Dental Arts at (617) 924-1911 for an appointment in our Watertown office.
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