This post is written by Dr. Donna Thomas and
sponsored by Pediatric Dental Specialists, PA.
As parents, we love watching our kids thrive on the field, court, or ice. We pack the water bottles, manage the schedules, and cheer the loudest. But there is one critical item we cannot afford to overlook: the mouth guard.
Most parents are surprised to learn that one third of kids experience dental injuries while engaging in sports activities. That’s not just a mere quick trip to the dentist—it can mean broken, chipped, or completely knocked-out permanent teeth (avulsion). Such injuries often lead to lifelong dental challenges, developing into costly treatments that can frequently be avoided.
Here’s Why Making Mouth Guards a Priority this Season is Essential
Dental injuries are not exclusive to just football or hockey! These injuries can occur in soccer, basketball, baseball, and even gymnastics or skateboarding.
- Most common injuries: Cracked/broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and significant injuries to lips and tongue.
- Long-term costs: A single injured tooth can cost up to $20,000 over a person’s lifetime.
- The “60 Times” Rule: Athletes who forgo a mouth guard are 60 times more likely to suffer a dental trauma.
Why Mouth Guards Are a Game-Changer
A quality mouth guard acts as a shock absorber, distributing the impact of a fall or collision thereby safeguarding the teeth, gums and jaws. It can even reduce the risk of concussions by stabilizing the jaw.
Tips for Selecting the Best Mouth Guard
- Custom-Fitted (Best Option): Made by your dentist, custom mouth guards provide the best fit and protection. They are more comfortable, make it easier for kids to breathe and speak, and are ideal for active athletes.
- Boil-and-Bite (Great Alternative): These mouth guards can be softened in hot water and molded at home for a more personalized fit. They are a great over-the-counter option for growing children and teens.
- For Braces: If your child has braces, wearing a mouth guard is especially important. Mouth guards help protect the lips, cheeks, and brackets during sports or physical activity and can help reduce the risk of injuries affecting multiple teeth.
The Bottom Line
A fractured or knocked-out tooth can lead to discomfort, costly treatment, and long-term dental complications. Wearing a properly fitted mouth guard is one of the easiest ways to help protect your child’s smile.
Over-the-Counter Brands We Recommend
Shock Doctor – A popular option known for its durability, comfort, and wide variety of sizes for different ages and sports. Their mouth guards also offer good protection for children with braces.
Game On – The only over-the-counter mouth guard brand that is ADA-approved. We like this option because it is designed to provide a better fit, comfort, and protection while still being affordable and easy to purchase.
Your biggest challenge may be getting your youth to wear a mouth guard. Help them become the trendsetter or be the smart player and remember “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!” So, parents, let’s work together to safeguard our little’s smile!
Pediatric Dental Specialists Tip: If a permanent tooth is ever knocked out, place it in cold milk or a tooth preservation solution and contact a dentist immediately — quick action can make all the difference.
If your child experiences a dental injury during sports or everyday activities, Pediatric Dental Specialists is here to help. You can reach our team at 913-649-KIDS (5437), with four convenient locations throughout the Kansas City metro area. Please note established patients may be seen after hours for emergent dental needs.
Interested in learning more about our office? Visit dinokidsdds.com or follow us on Instagram (@dinokidsdds) and TikTok. We would love to see your child at their next visit soon at one of our four locations in the metro: North Kansas City, Leawood, Country Club Plaza and Lee’s Summit.
