Why are they important
Mouthguards protect children’s teeth from damage and parents should be aware of the many benefits and be proactive in making sure your child is aware of the reasons. They prevent any damage to tooth enamel ( chipped teeth, cracked front teeth ) also the potential injuries caused by impact such as jaw fractures, damage to lips, gums and cheeks. Along with this they protect the jaw joint itself, because a child’s bones are still growing children are more prone to bone injuries.Who should be wearing a mouthguard
Commonly referred to as an athletic mouthguard some confusion exists among parents who think they are only needed for direct contact sports for example those playing football. If your child is active in sports or other physical activities they may have an increased risk of traumatic injury to the mouth. Really any sport a child can play involves running, skipping or jumping can result in sudden impact to the mouth. Children regularly skate, ski or roller blade and parents suit them up with protective pads and would be wise to consider adding mouthguards to their protective gear.
Kids are required to wear such gear during some activities and yet it is often overlooked for other sports unless specifically a part of the equipment list. Designed to effectively absorb the shock of a sudden impact, trauma is extremely common for kids especially pre teens and teens who play baseball, basketball or volleyball and yet mouthguards are not used for these non contact sports. Mouthguards can be uncomfortable for the child so stressing the reasons why and educating your child on potential injuries that could occur might give them a better understanding of their use. While it may be unrealistic to have your child wear a mouthguard any time they do an activity make sure they wear one for organized physical activities and most importantly in any contact sports they play.
You want to be sure that when you visit a children's dentist in Vancouver, that your children's teeth are safe after a visit. You can do that by making sure they use a mouthguard,
