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As a parent, you want to make sure your teen is safe when playing sports. One of the ways to ensure their safety is by making sure they wear a mouthguard. We’ll discuss why teens should wear a mouthguard when playing sports.
Prevent Damaged Teeth
One of the most significant reasons why teens should wear a mouthguard when playing sports is to prevent damaged teeth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to damage their teeth. A mouthguard acts as a cushion and protects the teeth from impact. When participating in sports, the possibility of being struck by a ball or crashing into an opponent can lead to cracked and broken teeth. Even if your teenager isn’t engaging in contact activities, they are still vulnerable to tooth damage from tumbles or other mishaps. Fortunately, using a protective mouthguard will reduce the chances of these accidents turning into unforeseen dental disasters.
Protect Their Braces
If your teen wears braces and they get hit during play, this can cause damaged brackets or wires. This not only means additional dental appointments to fix the damage, but it can also prolong the time your teen has to wear braces. A mouthguard can help protect their braces and prevent this type of damage from occurring. There are special mouthguards designed specifically for those who wear braces. These mouthguards accommodate braces and provide extra cushioning for the teeth.
Prevent Serious Injury
Aside from preventing dental injuries, mouthguards can also prevent serious injuries. A mouthguard can help absorb the impact of a blow to the face and reduce the risk of a concussion. A concussion is a serious brain injury that can occur from a hit to the head. Symptoms of a concussion can range from mild to severe and can include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness. In some cases, a concussion can lead to long-term complications, such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes. While a mouthguard cannot completely prevent a concussion, it can help reduce the impact and protect the teeth and jaw.
Offering the perfect blend of comfort and protection, wearing a mouthguard is an uncomplicated yet efficient way to safeguard your teenager’s teeth while they play competitive sports. It’s essential to select a mouthpiece that fits properly in their mouth and provides maximum coverage. Talk to your dentist about which type of mouthguard is best for your teen and their specific needs. With a mouthguard, you can have peace of mind knowing that your teen is protected while they enjoy their favorite sports.
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