Mouthguards for Kids Gresham, OR
Sports are an excellent way for your child to get outside, burn off some excess energy, and learn how to play as part of a team. However, many sports do come with a risk of injury, such as falling, being hit with a ball, or colliding with another player. To prevent such injuries, you make sure that your child wears the proper protective gear, including a helmet and padding. While helmets help to protect your child from head injuries, it is still possible for them to suffer oral trauma. At Douglas L. Park, DDS, Pediatric Dentistry, we can help to protect your child’s mouth with a mouthguard.
What is a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is a device that is worn over the teeth and designed to protect your child’s mouth while they participate in sports – football, lacrosse, soccer, martial arts, wrestling, etc. It is meant to perform several functions:
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Protecting their teeth from chips, fractures, being dislodged, or even being knocked out completely.
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Protecting the soft tissues of their mouth from injuries such as lacerations.
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Protecting their jaw from serious injuries such as fractures or dislocation. |
Can’t I Just Get One From the Store?
There are a few different types of mouthguards available, many of which you can easily pick up at a sporting goods store. However, these mouthguards do not offer the same protection as one that your child can get professionally made. The three main types of mouthguards include:
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Stock mouthguards. This is the least expensive type of mouthguard and is available at most sporting goods stores. It comes pre-molded. The biggest issue with these mouthguards is that because they are pre-molded, there is no guarantee that they will properly fit their mouth, and they can increase their risk for injury.
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Boil and bite mouthguards. This is another type of mouthguard commonly found at sporting goods stores. With this type of mouthguard, you boil it for a few seconds, and your child bites into it so the soft material can form around their teeth. This provides a semi-custom fit.
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Custom-fit mouthguards. A custom fit mouthguard is one that is professionally made in our office. It is made from impressions of your mouth and done in a manner to provide a perfect fit. While these mouthguards are the most expensive option, they provide the greatest protection. |
Mouthguard Care
For your child’s mouthguard to provide optimal protection, it must be properly cared for. It should be rinsed with water before and after each use (if not brushed with toothpaste). Periodic cleaning with soap and water should be done. These actions will help to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria that can then cause issues in your child’s mouth. When not in use, the mouthguard should be stored in a vented container, so that air may flow freely around it, again helping to prevent bacterial buildup. The mouthguard should not be exposed for prolonged periods of time to either heat or sunlight. At the first sign of damage, make sure to replace it.
Benefits of a Mouthguard
Mouthguards offer several benefits to your child:
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Protection from serious dental harm.
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The mouthguard absorbs impact.
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Even the jaw is protected from injury.
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By protecting their mouth, you help to save money by avoiding the need for significant dental work in the event of an injury. |
If your child plays sports, wearing the proper protective gear is essential. Part of this gear should be a custom fit mouthguard, which will help to protect their teeth, gums, and jaw. To get your child’s custom mouthguard, contact Douglas L. Park, DDS, Pediatric Dentistry to schedule their appointment today at (503) 663-8141. |