With the new school year come sports, football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, etc. They are very physical sports, with arms, legs, and bodies flaring around to the never-ending “getting hit with the ball”. Mouth guards are essential for protecting your child’s teeth. Most kids don’t like wearing them because they just don’t fit right. But, everyone still heads to the sporting goods to pick one up. No one thinks of the dentist when shopping for a mouth guard.
But it’s your dentist who knows your teeth. It’s your dentist who can explain the material used to make them. Your dentist can explain how a custom-fit mouth guard protects your teeth and other injuries that can happen around the jaw if you get hit in the face. A mouth guard with a tear or has become loose can irritate the tissue and will offer less protection. Your dentist can check your mouth guard periodically to ensure optimal performance and protection.
So, add the dentist visit to your checklist. As a member of the Academy for Sports Dentistry, this time of year gives us the opportunity to remind families about the importance of protecting your child’s teeth. Be safe, play hard and if you have questions and for more information, visit www.northernwestchesterdental.com or by calling Northern Westchester Dental at 914-737-2838.
