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Oct
Parents consider their children’s smile something beautiful to behold. A child’s smile is a reflection of inner confidence and joy. Protecting it requires healthy habits and professional dental care that works to prevent dental problems. One of the ways that we promote healthy smiles for life when delivering pediatric dentistry to our patients from the Greensboro, NC area is to discuss how to protect teeth during sporting activities.
Most children who participate in sports receive protective gear. Padding and helmets keep the head and body safe from injury. A mouth guard, also called a mouth protector or sports guard, is intended to protect the teeth as well as the jaw. The plastic fixture fits over the upper row of teeth, minimizing the risk of biting the tongue or cheek, or hitting teeth together in the event of physical impact. More than keeping teeth safe from breaking or other damage, a well-made mouth guard is also capable of reducing the risk of nerve damage or concussion.
Any young athlete who engages in contact sports knows the necessity for protection. When a child participates in any activity in which another player, a piece of equipment, or the ground could come into contact with the face or head, a mouth guard should be worn.
Mouth guards are easily purchased at just about any sporting goods store. They can be found online and, in many cases, are included in the gear provided by a school or club. However, it is important that the plastic tray is comfortable and efficient.
Many “boil and bite” types of mouth guards feel bulky, causing the player to have difficulty breathing easily and speaking clearly. Also, without a customized fit, a mouth guard only offers a fraction of the protection one may expect.
Pediatric dentists understand the importance of protecting the developing jaw and teeth. Custom-fit mouth guards provide the strongest buffer for vital structures. To learn more about protecting your active child’s teeth and jaw, speak with your experienced pediatric dentist, Dr. Isharani. Call (336) 383-1482.