Sports Safety: Protecting Your Child’s Teeth During Physical Activities

Children love to stay active, whether it’s soccer, basketball, or gymnastics. But as exciting as sports can be, they come with a risk to your child’s teeth. Here at Pediatric Smiles and Braces in Orem, UT, we’re passionate about helping families safeguard their children’s smiles. As experts in Orem pediatric dentistry, we want to share tips on how to protect your child’s teeth during physical activities. A well-protected smile is a healthy smile!

The Importance of Protecting Teeth During Sports

Physical activities are essential for children’s health, but they can also pose risks to their dental health. Many sports involve high contact or the potential for falls, and teeth are often at the forefront of these injuries. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), up to 39% of dental injuries in children are related to sports. Taking proactive steps to protect your child’s teeth can prevent long-term damage and expensive treatments. That’s why Orem pediatric dentistry professionals recommend early intervention, such as the use of mouthguards.

What is a Mouthguard, and Why Does Your Child Need One?

Mouthguards are protective devices that shield your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw during high-contact activities. They are often recommended by Orem pediatric dentists for sports like football, basketball, and hockey but are also useful for other activities like skateboarding or biking. Mouthguards absorb the shock from collisions and falls, preventing chipped or knocked-out teeth. They are one of the simplest, most effective ways to protect your child’s smile.

Types of Mouthguards

When it comes to choosing a mouthguard, there are several options to consider:

1. Stock Mouthguards – These are pre-made and ready to wear. They offer minimal protection but are an affordable option.
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards – These provide better protection and a more customized fit. Simply boil the mouthguard and have your child bite down to mold it to their teeth.
3. Custom-Made Mouthguards – For the best fit and protection, custom-made mouthguards from your pediatric dentist are the top choice. Here at Pediatric Smiles and Braces, we offer custom mouthguards that are tailored specifically to your child’s dental needs.

Tips for Preventing Dental Injuries During Sports

Apart from wearing a mouthguard, there are other ways to protect your child’s teeth during physical activities:

1. Encourage Helmet Use: For sports like biking, skateboarding, or football, helmets offer crucial protection for both the head and teeth.
2. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Strong, healthy teeth are less likely to sustain damage. Brushing twice daily, flossing, and visiting Orem pediatric dentistry regularly for checkups can strengthen your child’s teeth.
3. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration keeps the mouth healthy and reduces the risk of dry mouth, which can make teeth more susceptible to injury.
4. Teach Proper Techniques: Ensure that your child knows the proper techniques and rules for the sport they’re playing to minimize injury risks.

What to Do If Your Child Experiences a Dental Injury

Despite taking every precaution, accidents can still happen. If your child experiences a dental injury during sports, don’t panic. Here are some steps to take:

1. Locate the Tooth or Piece of Tooth: If a tooth has been knocked out or chipped, try to find the missing piece and rinse it with water.
2. Contact Your Pediatric Dentist Immediately: Time is crucial when handling dental injuries. Call Pediatric Smiles and Braces to schedule an emergency appointment.
3. Use Cold Compresses for Swelling: If your child has swelling or pain, apply a cold compress to reduce inflammation.

Protecting your child’s teeth during sports is an investment in their future smile. At Pediatric Smiles and Braces, we’re here to support your family with expert Orem pediatric dentistry care. Whether you need a custom mouthguard or have questions about dental safety, we’re just a phone call away! Let’s work together to keep your child’s smile safe while they stay active and healthy.