Summer is a great time for fun in the sun. Make sure you keep up with your child’s dental health while keeping their mouth safe. Check out our tips below.
Mouth Protection Available
Keeping your mouth safe takes some extra steps. Sports and other active pursuits require some more proactive measures than trying to move your head in time. Your child won’t have to avoid going out into the world, and they won’t be forced to wear armor around their mouth. Check out our list of mouth protection below:
- Custom-Made Mouth Protectors: This is the most secure and intense precaution. The custom-made mouthguard is a dentist created a layer of protection to protect your mouth and teeth completely. The comfort and fit will be more closely shaped to the individual.
- Mouth-Formed Protectors: The next bracket of protection is the mouth-formed guards. These “boil-and-bite” mouth protectors are ones that you take home, put in boiling water, then bite. This process lets the guard form to your child’s mouth, making more it suited to the individual.
- Stock Mouthguard: The bottom layer of protection can be bought at a store and used immediately. These are a cost-effective, quick way to protect your child’s mouth.
These guards help keep your child’s mouth safe. Now let’s go over the additional concerns that go with specific sports or activities.
Contact Sports (Soccer, Football, Baseball, Basketball, etc.)
With activity comes the chance for injury. Soccer, not football, is actually the leading sport for head injuries including dental-related problems. Football gets a bad rep, but it also requires a faceguard, helmet, and mouthguard. Soccer, on the other hand, does not. Children who play soccer, baseball, and basketball are at risk for having mouth injuries, including lip or cheek injuries, fractured jaws, chipped teeth, and more. Another plug for mouthguards: they don’t stop everything, but they can help.
Swimming
Finally, let’s look at swimming. Heavy swimmers, or those who are in the pool over 6 hours per day, need to consider the chemicals in the pool. Make sure to drink water and brush your teeth at some point during or directly after these long sessions to cut down on the impact on your teeth. Horseplay in the water and incorrect flips or dives can also cause issues. Be careful near the water!
Signature Smiles helps clients of all ages protect their teeth and mouths. When necessary, our dedicated, professional staff has the knowledge, experience, and equipment to handle all dental injuries and emergencies. Give us a call now at (248) 557-5756.