What is a mouthguard?
A mouthguard is an important piece of equipment to prevent damage if you or your child are playing contact sports. Many accidents can happen while on the playing field or court, and a mouthguard protects the worst of the damage to your teeth. Jaw fractures, broken teeth, displaced and head traumas can all be reduced by wearing a mouthguard. This is especially the case if you have complicated dental work such as veneers, crowns, and braces. Damage and loss of baby teeth can have a significant impact on the adult teeth and how they eventually grow. Children’s skulls are also more delicate and needs be to be protected while growing.
Mouthguards help prevent damage by:
- Absorbing some of the shock of impact on the teeth
- Protecting the lips, cheeks, and gums from getting cuts
- Stopping the bottom teeth from hitting the top teeth
- Supporting the lower jaw in a way that prevents fractures at the jaw joints.
- They may also be able to prevent damage to the head and neck but this is not fully proven.
What age should my child be wearing a mouthguard?
There is no minimum age of when a child should be wearing a mouthguard. If they are old enough to be playing a contact sport, they are old enough to have a mouthguard. In some sports, a mouthguard is mandatory and your child will not be able to play without it.
As your child grows, they will need to get a new mouthguard to fit their mouth.
When should my child be wearing the mouthguard?
At any point that your child is playing the sport, whether in training, or in a competition, they should have their mouthguard appropriately fitted. Many accidents can happen in training and a mouthguard only works to prevent damage if it is being properly worn.
What kinds of mouthguards are there?
There are many options in mouthguards- they come in many thicknesses, depending on the requirements of the sport. You can also get them in different colours to match your uniform, or show support for your favourite teams.
All mouthguards made by us are fitted exactly to the mouth, for maximum comfort. An ill-fitting mouthguard is a mouthguard that does not get worn.
How do I care for my mouthguard?
After using your mouthguard, rinse it with water and keep it in it’s case. When you get home, brush the mouthguard with soap and water to remove any stains and debris. Dry it and keep it dry in its case. Keep it out of reach of pets who love chewing on it!
