If your child is an athlete, they are likely required or encouraged to use a mouthguard. Wal-Mart is often the go-to spot for mouthguards when it comes to youth sports, but Parkcrest Dental Group thinks that investing a little bit more money in a high-quality mouthguard might be beneficial for many athletes. Some may be skeptical, though.Does it really matter what mouthguard your child uses? We think so. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a mouthguard:
- What sport is your child playing?
- At what level of competition is your child playing?
- What are your child’s health needs?
In today’s blog post, Parkcrest Dental Group will look at these three things and help you decide what type of mouthguard to buy for your child.
Is Your Child Playing A Contact Sport?
The first question you need to ask when considering what mouthguard to purchase is what type of sport your child is playing. Different sports require different safety precautions and while most encourage using a mouthguard, not all require the same type. If your child is playing a semi-contact sport, such as basketball or baseball, the presence of a mouthguard is more important than the actual type.
However, if your child is playing a full-on contact sport, such as football or wrestling, or even participating in a sport where falls are more likely such as skateboarding, finding the right mouthguard is important. For these sports, it would be wise to invest in more expensive protection, or even a custom-made mouthguard from Parkcrest Dental Group.
Related Post: Dr. Harrison: How Can I Protect My Braces While Playing Sports?
Is Your Child Playing His Or Her Sport At A Higher Level?
While safety is often the main focus of a parent searching for a mouthguard, there are other considerations, especially if your child is playing their sport at a higher level. Cheaper mouthguards often fit poorly, and for high-level athletes, that can impede their ability to compete.
And while cheaper mouthguards can keep your child’s mouth safe if they are playing in a youth league, they have their limitations as athletes become faster and stronger. Specifically with sports like football, as your child gets older and begins competing against bigger, faster athletes, the hits will become more violent and the quality of their mouthguard will become more important.
What Are Your Child’s Health Needs?
Another factor to consider is your individual child’s oral health needs. Do they have braces? Have they had teeth injuries in the past? Does their alignment require a custom mouthguard? These are all important questions, and you may need to visit the professionals at Parkcrest Dental Group to have them answered. In some cases, it may be recommended that your child not participate in contact sports due to their oral health history.
Contact Parkcrest Dental Group For Further Help
Your child’s safety is the number one priority of the dentists at Parkcrest Dental Group. We want your child to enjoy their athletic experience, but not at the cost of their oral health. Contact us today at (417) 262-5515 or visit our website for more information.
