The Dangers of Children Playing Sports Without Mouthguards

Physical activity is great for kids. It helps them grow up healthy, both physically and mentally. Being involved in a sporting activity is vital for a child’s overall welfare. Sports are fun, but they are often accompanied by risks of injury.

Accidents happen during sporting activities. The severity of an injury is higher if the child is not wearing appropriate protective gear. It is necessary to understand the dangers of children playing sports without mouthguards. 

Cracked and Broken Teeth

Failure to wear a mouthguard at play can result in broken teeth. Teeth are very solid, but they can become brittle, especially after a hard impact. Children who participate in contact sports or sports involving hard, fast-moving balls have a high risk of mouth injury.

A hard blow to the teeth can cause them to fracture or crack. Wearing a mouthguard helps cushion the impact of a blow to reduce the risk of damage. 

Getting a Concussion

The likelihood of getting a concussion when playing sports is always present. A concussion occurs due to a hard hit to the head. It can be severe, possibly resulting in brain injury. Mouthguards can help reduce the risk of getting a concussion during sports. Studies have shown that mouthguards can reduce cranial impact from a hard impact to the jaw by up to 50 percent.

Experiencing Jaw Injuries 

Jaw injuries are common in sports, especially boxing. They can be due to anything from falls to a strong head impact. The injuries range from jaw fractures and dislocations.

Mouthguards help reduce the severity of impact. Hence, a mouthguard leads to long-term jaw health. They reduce the shock that the upper and lower jaws sustain from the impact. This is especially important if there have been jaw injuries in the past.

Lip and Cheek Lacerations 

Teeth are solid, but soft tissue surrounds them. The tongue, cheeks, and lips are soft, making them vulnerable to damage when uncovered during sports. Accidental bites can lacerate or puncture the skin and soft tissues and cause significant damage. Mouthguards can help protect the soft tissue during the activities. 

How Mouthguards Work

Mouthguards function by cushioning the teeth and correctly positioning the jaw. This helps reduce the risk of damage to the teeth. Athletic mouthguards help prevent oral lacerations, broken teeth, and jaw injuries. Dental professionals recommend wearing mouthguards during popular sports such as:
 

• Boxing

• Hockey

• Basketball

• Football

• Martial arts

• Lacrosse

• Rugby

Children can enjoy the sports that they love while remaining safe. For the best results, look for custom mouthguards that will keep your child safe. Manufacturers design mouthguards to meet the demands of different sporting activities.

For more on the dangers of children playing sports without mouthguards, visit Above and Beyond Dental at our office in Bedford, Texas. You can call (817) 571-1667 today to schedule an appointment.