Like it or not, when kids play sports, there is a risk for injury—and not just sprained ankles. Your child’s teeth could also be damaged by a wayward elbow, baseball, or hockey puck. Because of this, student-athletes in a wide variety of sports, including basketball, lacrosse, gymnastics, soccer, and track, should use a custom mouthguard. Here are three major reasons you should always bring one to the game and every practice.

Why Student-Athletes Should Wear Custom Mouthguards

1. Adapt to the Sport

Not only are custom mouthguards made for your child's specific teeth, but they also factor in the degree of contact in an athlete’s chosen sport. This ensures a comfortable fit while also providing the correct thickness to protect all the teeth. For example, sports with a low risk of traumatic contact, such as tennis, can use a thinner, single-layer device. Those with heavy contact like football or boxing will require a thicker, multi-layer guard.

2. Prevent Damage to the Teeth & Jaw

The dental guard’s primary role is to prevent cuts, bruising, tooth fractures, and dislocations that could occur during an impact. In some cases, these injuries may even require pulling a damaged tooth. By keeping opposite teeth from coming in direct contact with each other, the lower jaw is also protected from fractures. Wearing a guard is a worthy investment to avoid emergency dentist or medical visits.

3. Reduce Concussion Risk

Concussions are a significant health concern for student-athletes, particularly in sports like football and soccer. Wearing a mouthguard can reduce concussion risk by keeping the jaws from violently hitting together when impacting the ball or another athlete. Preventing concussions ensures athletes won’t be forced to risk their future or miss part of their season due to necessary medical precautions.

If you need to get your student-athlete fitted for a custom mouthguard, visit William U. Britton, DDS, MAGD, in Chillicothe, OH. Treating patients of all ages for over 35 years, Dr. Britton and his team proudly “cater to cowards,” helping everyone who enters their office feel at ease. To learn more about their services or schedule an appointment, visit them online or call (740) 772-2225.