Sports Guard Sports and America go hand in hand. We are always watching sports on TV or going to games to cheer on our favorite players. This trickles down to youth sports as well. The number of youth leagues is growing at an incredible rate. As one might imagine, with so many children participating in sports programs, it is easy to assume there will be a rise in the number of injuries reported. A study by the American Dental Association (ADA) showed that a surprising 36 percent of participants suffered what was considered a substantial injury. The other significant finding was that 20 percent of those were injuries sustained to the mouth. While the percentages might be sobering enough, they become downright shocking with approximately 25 million children participating in various youth sports programs across the country.How to Protect Against Sports Related InjuriesWith the high frequency of sports-related injuries to children, the ADA has strongly suggested anyone participating in what it considers to be contact sports to wear a mouthguard for both practices and games. They suggest the following as contact sports: soccer, martial arts, ice hockey, lacrosse, skateboarding, volleyball, football, rugby, basketball, and field hockey. Mouthguards are a vital piece of safety equipment, acting as a shock absorber for the teeth and jaw. At Monroe Smiles we can take measurements and create a custom-made sportsguard for you or your child. Custom-Made Mouthguards Are BestWhile there are over-the-counter sportsguards available at grocery stores and sporting goods stores, we highly recommend a custom-made mouthguard. A custom-fitted mouthguard is made based on the shape of the individual's specific mouth and teeth, and as a result will fit firmly in place. Generic one-size-fits-all mouthguards can feel bulky, be too big, and thus not provide adequate support and protection. At What Age Should My Child Wear a Mouthguard?Mouthguards should be worn when your child turns seven years old. This is for any type of sport whether competitive or recreational. This is the recommendation of the American Dental Association who notes that properly wearing a mouthguard during competitions can significantly reduce the chances of injury to the lips, cheeks, teeth, or tongue. Reasons for a MouthguardMany injuries to the oral cavity could easily be avoided by wearing a mouthguard. Think of the amount of pain and discomfort that could be avoided simply by using one. It could protect against injuries to the interior lining of the cheeks, gums, or the tongue. Wearing one also protects the teeth from being chipped, fractured, or completely knocked out. In some cases, tooth fractures can also damage the root structure and jawbone. When a tooth remains in the socket but is in a different position, meaning it is too short or too tall, or maybe oddly angled, the tooth is considered partially extruded. Ensure the Mouthguard fits correctlyAll mouthguards should fit snugly in the mouth. If they are loose, they will not properly protect the oral cavity. They also need to be comfortable, or the child will not want to wear them. Any parent with a child participating in sports should come to see us at the office today. To find out more about sports mouthguards, contact Monroe Smiles to schedule an appointment. When you come in to see us we can go over the importance of wearing a mouthguard and take measurements for a custom-fitted mouthguard the same day. Call us at (360) 467-6386 today. |
Contact Information14650 N. Kelsey St. Ste. 104-105 Monroe, WA 98272-1456 (360) 467-6386 drj@jljdds.com Office HoursMonday - Friday: 7:00am-6:00pm Follow Us |
