As a parent, ensuring your child’s safety during sports activities is a top priority. While helmets, knee pads, and elbow guards are commonly used to protect against injuries, one area often overlooked is dental safety. For children undergoing orthodontic treatment, safeguarding their braces and teeth becomes even more critical. We’ll help you explore practical ways to protect your child’s smile during sports, ensuring their orthodontic journey is as smooth and successful as possible.
From selecting the right mouthguard to understanding the risks, we’ve got you covered with practical tips and advice. At Okuda & Noorda Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to providing all of our patients – including children – with high-quality care and compassion. We have the tools and resources to support you and your whole family with their orthodontic journey, so don’t hesitate to ask us any questions you have about your child’s care.
What Are the Risks of Sports for Children with Braces?
Many potential risks are associated with your child participating in sports, whether they have braces or not. Some of these potential injuries include the following:
- Tooth fractures or broken teeth
- Lip, tongue, and cheek injuries
- Damage to braces and wires
Because of these risks, we highly recommend you get a mouthguard for your child who participates in sports. A mouthguard may help mitigate or prevent injuries whether your child has braces or not, but there are many options available. An orthodontist from Okuda & Noorda Orthodontics can help you in making the best decision for your child.
How to Choose the Right Mouthguard for Your Child
There are many elements you must consider when choosing the right mouthguard for your child. A few options for mouthguards are available, each of which may require different care or have certain safety benefits.
The following are the most popular types of mouthguards:
- Stock mouthguards
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards
- Custom-fitted mouthguards
We at Okuda & Noorda Orthodontics are big fans of custom-fitted mouthguards, as they offer enhanced protection, comfort, proper fit, and durability. However, other options may be beneficial in specific circumstances. Feel free to schedule a consultation with one of our orthodontists for a more thorough conversation about your child’s needs.
Tips for Encouraging Your Child to Wear a Mouthguard
If you are concerned that your child will not wear their mouthguard as often as their orthodontist recommends, they may need some encouragement. We have a few recommendations that may make the initial transition period more manageable for you and your family, including the following:
- Encourage Consistent Use During Practices and Games: The more your child uses their mouthguard, the less likely they are to fight you or throw a tantrum regarding wearing them.
- Addressing Discomfort and Concerns: When children feel pain from their mouthguard, this is a sign to revisit the orthodontist and make sure the tool is not fitting them incorrectly, that no parts of the guard are broken and sharp, and that other issues are appropriately addressed.
- Positive Reinforcement: Children may not want to wear a mouthguard, so some rewards and positive reinforcement may be beneficial. For example, you can tell your child they can get pizza, ice cream, or another favorite food after each practice they wear their mouthguard. Do not give in and reward them if they refuse.
- Show Good Role Models: Some children may be embarrassed about wearing a mouthguard, especially if none of their peers or friends wear one. However, many professional athletes wear mouthguards and other safety equipment during their games. Show your child how their favorite athlete wears one to preserve their smile and health.
If you need additional tips and tricks for encouraging your child to wear their mouthguard, don’t hesitate to tailor and personalize your approach. For instance, your child may be more interested in toys rather than food or feel more driven by specific long-term goals than short-term ones. You can also reach out to Okuda & Noorda Orthodontics for additional support.
Protecting Your Child’s Smile During Sports
Ensuring your child’s smile is safe during sports is crucial, especially if they’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. At Okuda & Noorda Orthodontics, we offer personalized care and advanced techniques to protect your child’s teeth and braces.
Our experienced orthodontists will help you choose the right mouthguard and provide tips for encouraging consistent use. We are committed to making your child’s orthodontic journey smooth and successful. Call us at (702) 737-5500 or visit our contact form for more information.
