What can I do to protect my childs teeth from sporting events?
A properly fitted soft mouth guard can protect your childs teeth, cheeks, lips, gums, and smile. Many experts recommend that a mouth guard be worn for any recreational activity that poses a risk of injury to the mouth. Sports in which a mouth guard should be worn include (but not limited to): basketball, football, baseball, soccer, softball, wrestling, martial arts, hockey, volleyball, skateboarding, lacrosse, boxing, and extreme sports. There are 3 types of mouth guards: 1) ready-made, or stock, mouth guard; 2) mouth-formed boil-and-bite mouth guard; and 3) custom-made mouth guard made by the dentist. If your child doesnt have all of their permanent teeth then a boil-and-bite mouth guard should be sufficient. The most effective mouth guard should be resilient, tear-resistant, and comfortable. It should fit properly, be easy to clean, and not restrict speech or breathing.
