Sports Guard Any kid growing up in America has likely participated in some kind of sports program. It is a rite of passage to play baseball, soccer, or basketball. It has become a national tradition for the youth of America. It is hard to avoid being drawn into sports. Each and every day, we are constantly bombarded by sports broadcasted on our local television stations, through social media, or simply during everyday conversation. Due to the fact that so many children participate in sports programs, the number of injuries incurred has substantially increased. The American Dental Association completed a study that showed that 36% of participants suffered an injury. Of those injured, 20% sustained an injury to the oral cavity. Those percentages are rather startling, but not as much as the raw numbers behind them. There are over 25 million children playing in various sports programs across the United States. When thought of that way, the numbers are shocking. With such a high rate of injury, the American Dental Association published recommendations to ensure the safety of participants. They strongly urge children to wear mouthguards while playing sports. It does not matter if it is during practice or a game. This was for all contact sports. Ice hockey, soccer, martial arts, lacrosse, football, field hockey, skateboarding, and basketball all constitute contact sports. This is by no means a complete list. Protecting not only the hard tissues of the mouth but also the soft tissues such as the lips, tongue, gums, and interior lining of the cheek, mouthguards are essential. They act as shock absorbers, taking the brunt of any impact. Those patients interested in finding out more about mouthguards are welcome to stop by Barnes Dental. When Should Kids Start Wearing Mouthguards?The recommendation by the American Dental Association suggests children seven years old or older should wear mouthguards. This is for all sports, recreational or competitive. When worn, mouthguards can lower the chances of injury to the upper and lower teeth significantly. Why Mouthguards?While injuries can still occur while wearing mouthguards, the vast majority of the injuries sustained can easily be avoided. These injuries can include a chipped tooth, a fractured tooth, or a tooth completely knocked out. There are some injuries which cannot be seen. This can occur to the roots of the teeth or to the jawbone. When this happens, it can impact the entire oral cavity. Teeth can also become partially extruded which means the tooth remains in the socket but in an entirely different position. When this happens, the injured tooth can appear much shorter than the rest of the teeth. It is important for mouthguards to fit correctly and not irritate the soft tissues. Those patients who have children, participating in sports programs, should come to see us at Barnes Dental and find out more about mouthguards and the importance of wearing one. Our staff will be more than happy to discuss the various types of mouthguards and how to properly wear them. Our office can also be reached by phone at (971) 441-5520. Give us a call today. |
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