Can Kids Wear Mouth Guards?

As parents, we all want to keep our kids safe, especially when it comes to their teeth. A lot of parents wonder if kids should wear mouth guards, and the answer is yes. In fact, there are plenty of situations where a mouth guard is a must-have. Without further adieu, let’s break down everything you need to know about mouth guards for kids.

Importance of Mouthguards for Kids

Can children wear mouth guards? Yes. Mouth guards for kids play a crucial role in protecting your child’s dental health. Night Guards New Brighton can prevent serious problems before they start. So, you need to know the reasons your child might need a mouthguard:

• If your child plays sports, especially contact sports like football or hockey, a mouth guard can protect their teeth from damage.
• Some children grind their teeth at night (bruxism). It can lead to wear and tear on their teeth and jaw pain.
• If your child has recently had dental work, a mouth guard can protect the treated area while they heal.
• Kids with crooked teeth or jaw issues may benefit from wearing a mouth guard to prevent further damage or discomfort.

When to Wear a Mouth Guard for Kids?

Children and kids can wear mouth guards but knowing when to use mouth guards for kids is essential to prevent dental injuries and discomfort:

Contact Sports

If your child plays high-contact sports like football, hockey, basketball, soccer, rugby, lacrosse, or baseball, a mouthguard is necessary. These sports put your child’s teeth at risk of damage from impacts or collisions.

High-Intensity Activities

Even if your child isn’t playing a contact sport, some recreational activities still require protection. Sports like skateboarding, mountain biking, dirt biking, ice skating, or boxing can lead to falls or accidents where a mouthguard can help protect their teeth.

Braces

If your child wears braces, a mouthguard is a must during sports. Braces can get damaged easily, and the teeth underneath are vulnerable to injury.

Teeth Grinding

If your child grinds their teeth at night, a custom night guard will protect their teeth and reduce jaw pain.

Kid Mouth Guard for Teeth Grinding

Children and kids can wear mouth guards to avoid injuries. However, teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is another common problem for many kids. In fact, around 30% of children grind their teeth, especially during sleep. Bruxism can happen for a number of reasons, including stress, anxiety, or even issues with the teeth or jaw alignment.

Signs of Teeth Grinding

• Worn-down teeth
• Jaw soreness or pain
• Complaints of headaches when waking up
• Sensitive teeth
• Trouble opening or closing the mouth fully

If your child shows any of these signs, it’s time to talk to a dentist about getting mouth guards for kids. A Mouth Guards New Brighton can help prevent long-term damage.

How Do Night Guards Help with Teeth Grinding?

A night guard works by cushioning the teeth during sleep. It stops kids from their teeth grinding against each other. It also helps relieve pressure on the jaw, which prevents pain and discomfort. Custom night guards fit comfortably over your child’s teeth and offer the best protection.

How to Choose a Mouth Guard for Kids?

When it comes to choosing a mouth guard, you’ll have a few options. There are three main types of mouth guards for kids:

• Stock mouthguards: These are pre-made and come in one size. They’re affordable and easy to find, but they often don’t fit well and may not provide enough protection.
• Boil-and-bite mouthguards: These are molded to your child’s teeth by heating them up and having your child bite into them. They offer a better fit than stock mouthguards but may not be as comfortable or long-lasting.
• Custom mouthguards: These are made by your dentist to fit your child’s teeth perfectly. They are the best choice for protection and comfort during sports. While they cost more, they offer the most reliable fit, especially if your child plays contact sports or grinds their teeth.

Benefits of Mouth Guards for Kids

For Sports:

• Protects teeth from injury.
• Helps prevent broken or knocked-out teeth.
• Reduces the risk of jaw injuries.
• Minimizes the chance of concussions.

For Teeth Grinding:

• Prevents tooth damage.
• Eases jaw pain.
• Reduces headaches.
• Improves sleep quality.

What Could Happen if My Child Doesn’t Wear a Mouthguard?

It’s easy to skip the mouthguard, especially if your child isn’t playing contact sports. But not wearing one can lead to serious problems:

• During sporting activities, without a mouthguard, your child’s teeth are at risk. A fall or hit could crack, break, or even knock out a tooth. A mouthguard helps prevent these painful injuries.
• When sleeping, grinding wears down teeth, which makes them more prone to cavities. It can also cause jaw pain and headaches. Over time, it can lead to costly dental treatments like fillings or crowns.

Are Mouthguards Absolutely Necessary for Kids Sports?

Yes! Mouthguards protect your child’s teeth and mouth. They help prevent injuries and reduce the chance of permanent damage. Remember, broken teeth don’t grow back. Tooth damage can be painful, expensive, and lasting.

Best Mouth Guards for Kids in New Brighton, Minnesota

Mouth guards for kids are a simple yet effective way to protect your child’s teeth from damage. If you live in New Brighton, Minnesota, Long Lake Family Dentistry can provide custom-fit mouthguards that will perfectly suit your child’s needs.

We specialize in custom mouth guards for kids. Whether your child needs one for sports or teeth grinding, we’ll help you find the best fit for their needs. Our experienced team of dental professionals, led by Dr. Jalali and Dr. Lee, offers high-quality mouthguards to protect your child’s teeth and make sure they stay healthy and happy.

So, stop Googling “mouth guard near me” and call us at (651) 633-1311 to schedule an appointment. Let’s ensure your child’s smile stays safe and protected.

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