Can A Custom Mouth Guard Protect My Child’s Teeth During Sports?

Many sports children play can cause injuries to the mouth, which can lead to dental emergencies. However, with a custom mouth guard, you can help reduce this damage and protect your child’s mouth, teeth, gums, and jawbones. Pediatric dentists Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Sandra Oh can help you decide if custom mouth guards are the right option for you and your children. Schedule a consultation with Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA to learn more about how a custom mouth guard can help protect your child’s teeth.

What is a custom mouth guard?

Custom mouth guards are made specifically for your child’s teeth to ensure the best possible protection. Compared to store-bought plastic mouth guards, these mouth guards are better molded to your child’s teeth, leading to better protection from impact. It is recommended that a custom mouth guard be used during most sports, like soccer, boxing, football, baseball, hockey, wrestling, etc. However, there is also evidence that these custom mouth guards can help reduce the impact on your teeth and jaws from nonimpact sports, like running, yoga, and weight lifting. Custom mouth guards usually last longer and fit better than those you can buy at sporting goods stores.

How are these mouth guards made?

The first step in making custom mouth guards is getting impressions of your child’s upper and lower teeth. Then, they will be sent off to a dental lab that specializes in making this equipment. The mouth guard is made from durable, long-lasting materials to ensure that it lasts for quite a bit of time. After the mouth guard is made, your child will need to come back in so Dr. Jeni or Dr. Oh can make sure it fits properly for maximum protection. If your child is in one or multiple sports, a custom-made mouth guard may be a good option to help protect their teeth, gums, and jawbones. You can contact Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA to learn more about custom mouth guards.

How should I care for a custom mouth guard?

It is important that your child wears their mouth guard anytime they are playing sports, but when they are not, it is best to keep it in one safe location to ensure it stays safe. You also need to wash the mouth guard after every use. It is critical to the lifespan of the equipment that you take care of it. Dr. Jeni or Dr. Oh can suggest ways to clean the mouth guard at your appointments. You should also bring the equipment to every dental appointment so Dr. Jeni can check to make sure it is undamaged.

Where can I get a custom mouth guard in Lawrenceville, GA?

A custom mouth guard can help to protect your child’s teeth, mouth, and jawbones when playing all kinds of sports. This equipment helps to reduce any impact on the mouth. Many sports are full contact, but a mouth guard can even help in those that are noncontact. If your child plays one or more sports, a custom mouth guard may be a good option to keep their mouth in good condition. Dr. Jeni Kong or Dr. Sandra Oh can discuss any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s dental health. Contact Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA for a full consultation on the state of your child’s oral health and to learn how a custom mouth guard can protect your child during sports.