In addition to being fun and healthy, sports instill discipline and teamwork in children. However, physical activity can cause injuries, including ones that result in dental chips. This is why dentists recommend taking certain precautions to protect your young athlete’s mouth. Learn how to prevent teeth damage in the guide below.

How to Protect Children’s Teeth During Sports

1. Make Mouth Guards

Mouthguards protect your child's teeth from impact during full-contact sports or activities that involve pucks and balls. They’re made from strong and flexible materials designed to absorb impact.

Ask your dentist about creating a custom mold for a guard fitted to their unique mouth shape.

2. Encourage Them to Use Helmets

School sports, such as hockey and football, often require children to wear helmets when playing. However, when kids practice at home, they may not want to wear them, leading to potential injuries.

Encourage your child to wear their helmet or faceguard anytime they play to protect against tooth and gum injuries.

3. Teach Safe Practices

It's common for children to enjoy rough play, especially during contact sports. While protective equipment safeguards their teeth, teaching them boundaries further prevents injuries to themselves and others.

Teach your children to respect others in their sport and remind them that a game is only fun when no one gets hurt.

For a family dentist you can trust, turn to the caring and professional staff at Four Corners Dental Group. With convenient locations in Wasilla and Anchorage, AK, they’re dedicated to providing a friendly, comfortable environment for people of all ages. If your child sustains dental trauma from sports, they’re ready to assist with emergency appointments. The staff works hard to put patients at ease when performing routine, preventive, or cosmetic dental procedures. Contact them today at (907) 258-3384 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services.