As the back-to-school season approaches, many parents and students are preparing for a fresh school year filled with new opportunities and challenges. For young athletes, this means gearing up for sports activities. A critical piece of sports equipment that often gets overlooked is the sports mouthguard.
This essential protective gear from Lake County Orthodontics shields the teeth and gums from injury during sports, but knowing when to replace it is crucial for optimal protection. Our Fort Worth orthodontist is here to guide you on when it’s time to swap out that old mouthguard.
Mouthguards are invaluable for anyone participating in contact sports, such as football, basketball, or hockey. These devices absorb and dissipate the force of impacts that could otherwise cause serious dental injuries. In fact, numerous studies reported by the American Dental Association (ADA) have found that the use of sports guards reduces the risk of dentofacial injuries.
But just like any other piece of equipment, sports mouthguards wear out over time. Knowing when to replace them can help ensure your child is getting adequate protection.
The most obvious sign that a mouthguard needs to be replaced is visible damage. Cracks, tears, or holes in the material can significantly reduce its effectiveness. Once a mouthguard shows these signs of wear, it’s time to invest in a new one from our Fort Worth orthodontist.
For athletes with braces, the fit of a mouthguard can change rapidly. As orthodontic treatment progresses, teeth change in alignment, which can affect how the mouthguard fits.
If your child has braces, consult Lake Country Orthodontics to ensure their mouthguard is providing the correct fit and protection.
As children grow, their mouths change. This growth can affect how a mouthguard fits. Typically, children and teens should have their mouthguards evaluated at least once per year. If it feels tight or loose, or if your child has difficulty speaking or breathing while wearing it, it’s time for a replacement.
Over time, mouthguards can accumulate bacteria, especially if they’re not cleaned and stored correctly. A mouthguard that smells or looks discolored should be replaced to avoid potential health issues.
Unlike over-the-counter options, custom sports guards are tailored to the specific contours of your child’s mouth. This gives your athlete optimal comfort and protection.
As an orthodontic office, we can create a custom-fit mouthguard that accommodates braces and other dental appliances, offering superior protection.
Regular orthodontic checkups are essential, especially for young athletes. During these visits, we can assess the fit and condition of the mouthguard, potentially even noticing it’s time for a replacement before you do.
We pride ourselves on offering valuable education to you and your child, helping you care for and store a sports guard to extend its life. We can advise you on the best practices to keep it clean and when to consider replacing it.
As you prepare for the new school year, here’s a handy checklist to ensure your child’s mouthguard is up to the task:
Our Fort Worth orthodontist is proud to be part of your athlete’s support system. If you still aren’t sure if your child needs a new sports guard or if you’re interested in getting started with one, book a visit to Lake Country Orthodontics today. We’ll make sure your child is ready to suit up for the new season.
