Why Mouthguards Are so Important for Kids Who Wear Braces
Posted on: 16 October 2017
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When children are in their element, they may feel as if they are indestructible. Certainly, they are able to absorb bumps and bruises much more readily than their parents can! However, parents also have to look out for the well-being of their kids, particularly when they are taking part in a contact sport in school. This is a rite of passage for most children, but injuries can frequently occur to the mouth and could lead to dental injuries. If your children are also wearing braces, what additional steps should you take in order to safeguard them?
Making It Mandatory
Did you know that many schools and colleges only "recommend" that children use mouthguards when taking part in particular sports? You should go one step further and insist that your kids do. This is particularly important if they are going through treatment with an orthodontist to straighten their teeth.
Full Benefits
A properly fitted mouthguard will help prevent any lacerations to the gums or the mouth that could take place when the braces move after impact. The mouthguard will also help to prevent teeth from being knocked out following a significant blow, as well as safeguarding the integrity of the braces. This will in turn prevent some costly repair bills and time in the dentist's chair. When children wear a properly designed mouthguard, it will work in tandem with the braces to help protect the teeth beneath.
How to Choose
Remember, not all commercially available mouthguards are suitable for those who wear braces, as some of them are not designed to allow additional space where braces are present. You should also ensure that the product you get is made from the best materials and designed to last for at least a full season of sport competition. They should also be made from non-toxic materials.
Proper Care
Consider the mouthguard as an investment and make sure that you look after it very carefully. Train your children to rinse with over-the-counter mouthwash, and get a spare toothbrush that they can use to clean it. The guard will come with a specially designed container and should be stored inside when not in use so that it doesn't become damaged.
To the Drawing Board
Get in touch with your orthodontist so that they can make customised braces for your sports-mad children. They will be best placed to come up with a solution that also allows the teeth to move gradually during the treatment process.