Posted on April 19, 2023
National Facial Protection Month in April is a time to raise awareness about the importance of protecting your teeth and mouth during physical activities. Mouthguards are an essential piece of equipment that can help prevent dental injuries during sports and other activities. In this blog post, Guymon Orthodontics with 5 convenient locations in Boise, Meridian, Star, Nampa, and Kuna, Idaho will discuss when and why your child should wear a mouthguard.
Your child should wear a mouthguard during any physical activity that has a risk of injury to the mouth or teeth. Sports such as football, basketball, hockey, and soccer pose a high risk of dental injuries. But, activities such as biking, skateboarding, and rollerblading can also cause mouth injuries.
Wearing a mouthguard can help prevent dental injuries such as chipped or broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and cuts to the lips and tongue. It can also prevent jaw injuries, which can lead to long-term problems such as TMJ disorders.
There are different types of mouthguards available, including stock mouthguards, boil-and-bite mouthguards, and custom-made mouthguards. Stock mouthguards are pre-made and come in different sizes, while boil-and-bite mouthguards are molded to the teeth after being heated in boiling water. Custom-made mouthguards are made by a dentist or orthodontist and provide the best fit and protection.
It’s important to clean and care for your child’s mouthguard to prevent the buildup of bacteria and ensure its effectiveness. Rinse the mouthguard with cold water after each use and store it in a clean, ventilated container. Avoid exposing the mouthguard to high temperatures, which can cause it to warp or lose its shape.
At Guymon Orthodontics, we’re committed to helping our patients achieve healthy and beautiful smiles. We offer a range of orthodontic services, including braces, clear aligners, and other treatments to address issues such as crooked teeth and overbites. We also offer custom-made mouthguards to protect your child’s teeth during physical activities.
If you’re interested in learning more about when and why your child should wear a mouthguard or need orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile and protect your teeth during physical activities.
