Mouthguards
Protecting your child’s teeth during sports and recreational activities is essential for preventing dental injuries. Monte Vista Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics offers custom-made mouthguards designed specifically for young athletes. These mouthguards provide superior protection, comfort, and fit compared to over-the-counter options, ensuring your child’s smile stays safe and healthy.
Importance of Mouthguards for Young Athletes
Sports and physical activities are a vital part of a child’s development, promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and confidence. However, they also pose a risk of dental injuries, such as chipped or broken teeth, fractured jaws, and even concussions. Mouthguards are crucial for safeguarding your child’s teeth and oral structures during these activities.
Benefits of Custom-Made Mouthguards
Custom-made mouthguards offer several advantages over store-bought alternatives:
- Optimal Fit: Custom mouthguards are designed to fit your child’s teeth perfectly, providing maximum protection and comfort.
- Better Protection: They offer superior cushioning against impacts, reducing the risk of dental injuries and soft tissue damage.
- Comfortable to Wear: Made from high-quality materials, custom mouthguards are comfortable to wear and do not hinder breathing or speaking.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Custom mouthguards are more durable and can withstand the rigors of regular use, providing long-term protection.
Types of Activities That Require Mouthguards
Mouthguards are essential for a wide range of sports and activities, including:
- Contact Sports:Â Football, hockey, lacrosse, and rugby.
- Individual Sports:Â Boxing, martial arts, and wrestling.
- Team Sports:Â Basketball, soccer, and baseball.
- Recreational Activities:Â Skateboarding, biking, and gymnastics.
The Process of Getting a Custom Mouthguard
The process of obtaining a custom mouthguard is straightforward and involves the following steps:
- Initial Consultation:Â During the consultation, our dentist will assess your child’s oral health and discuss their specific needs based on the sports they play.
- Impressions: We will take precise impressions of your child’s teeth to create a mold.
- Custom Fabrication: The impressions are sent to a dental lab where the mouthguard is crafted to fit your child’s teeth perfectly.
- Fitting and Adjustments: Once the mouthguard is ready, your child will try it on, and any necessary adjustments will be made to ensure a comfortable fit.
Caring for Your Child’s Mouthguard
Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the mouthguard:
- Rinse Before and After Use: Rinse the mouthguard with cool water before and after each use to keep it clean.
- Clean Regularly: Brush the mouthguard with a toothbrush and toothpaste or use a mouthguard cleaner to remove any buildup.
- Store Properly:Â Keep the mouthguard in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria growth and deformation.
- Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect the mouthguard for signs of wear and replace it if it becomes damaged or loses its shape.
Schedule a Fitting for a Custom Sports Mouthguard in San Antonio
Ensure your child’s teeth are protected during sports and activities with a custom-made mouthguard from Monte Vista Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and protection for your child’s smile. Contact us today to schedule a fitting and learn more about the benefits of custom mouthguards for young athletes.
