The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that all children wear mouth guards during sports and other recreational activities. Mouth guards are easily available and custom-fitted appliances that protect your children’s teeth from serious dental injuries and trauma. Whether your children have baby teeth or permanent teeth, mouth guards offer the necessary protection.
Kids' Mouth Guard
Ashburn
Nova Children’s Dentistry is a state-of-the-art pediatric dental clinic that can provide a custom-fitted kid’s mouth guard in Ashburn and South Riding. We take accurate impressions of your children’s teeth to provide custom-fitted mouth guards that provide far more protection than store-bought alternatives. Please schedule an appointment to learn about your mouth guard options.
How can mouth guards reduce dental injury?
- Cushion the impact of sporting injuries, falls, or traumas.
- Minimize the risk of knocked-out teeth, chipped teeth, and fractured teeth.
- Minimize the risk of injuries to the tongue, cheeks, jaw, and lips.
- Protect the soft tissues from injuries.
- Prevent dental problems caused by teeth grinding and clenching.
While mouth guards are designed specifically to reduce dental injuries, they also provide other benefits. They reduce the force of impact during sports, injuries, and traumas, which usually affects the jaw and the central nervous system at the base of the brain. As such, mouth guards cushion the blow from serious injuries that could otherwise cause traumatic brain injuries.
What are the types of mouth guards?
Stock Mouth Guards
Stock kid’s mouth guards in Ashburn are bought directly from stores and fitted into the child’s mouth. Since they’re store-bought mouth guards, they follow a one-size-fits-all approach with minimal adjustment possibilities. They’re cheap, easily available, and easy to wear. However, since they’re not designed according to your dental anatomy, they offer minimal protection from injuries. In some cases, they can also cause breaking problems, speaking problems, and sores and injuries.
Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards
Custom-fitted mouth guards are the best type of mouth guards because they offer maximum protection and comfort. The dentist takes an impression of the child’s teeth using special tools and mold. The impressions are sent to laboratories to prepare highly-customized mouth guards meant for your child’s unique dental anatomy. The process takes longer than the previous types, but it’s completely worth the wait. Our custom-fitted kids’ mouth guards are orthodontically correct and approved by dentists.
Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards
Boil-and-Bite mouth guards can be bought from stores, but they can’t be worn immediately. Made of thermoplastic material, they have to be immersed in hot water to increase their malleability and then pressed on the child’s teeth. A kid’s mouth guard in Ashburn adjusts according to the child’s dental anatomy. It offers more protection and comfort than a stock mouth guard, but it’s not as comfortable or protective as a mouth guard can be.
How to care for the mouth guard?
- Rinse the mouth guard in cold water and brush it with a mild soap before and after use.
- Store the mouth guard in a container that allows ventilation to prevent bacterial growth.
- Store acrylic mouth guards in freshwater.
- Don’t expose the mouth guard to hot temperatures, such as hot water and sunlight, for too long.
- Replace the mouth guard if it becomes loose.
- Keep the mouth guard away from pets.
Contact our office today to learn more about mouth guards and how to care for them, so that your kid’s mouth guard in Ashburn remains hygienic and sanitary, and lasts as long as possible.
Kid's Mouth Guard FAQs
Why is a mouth guard important for children?
A mouth guard is crucial for children as it helps protect their teeth, gums, and jaws during various physical activities. It significantly reduces the risk of dental injuries, fractures, and concussions, ensuring their overall oral health and safety.
During what types of activities would my kid benefit from wearing a mouth guard?
Your child should wear a mouth guard during contact sports like football, hockey, and martial arts, as well as non-contact activities like skateboarding and biking. They should wear mouth guards for any activity where there’s a chance of impact on the face.
At what age should my child start using a mouth guard?
Children should start using mouth guards once their permanent teeth begin to come in, typically around the age of 6 to 7. It’s important to ensure a proper fit as their teeth develop and change.
Can my child wear a custom-fitted mouth guard, or are stock mouth guards sufficient?
While stock mouth guards are readily available, a custom-fitted kid’s mouth guard in Ashburn is highly recommended. They offer superior comfort, protection, and durability, as they are tailored to your child’s unique mouth shape, ensuring a secure fit.
How often should my child replace their mouth guard?
Children should replace their mouth guards regularly, typically every season for active athletes or annually for occasional users. Regular checks for signs of wear and tear are essential to maintain optimal protection.
What are the signs that indicate it's time for a new mouth guard?
Signs of wear include tears, cracks, or loss of shape. If the mouth guard no longer fits snugly or causes discomfort, it’s time for a replacement.
Do mouth guards interfere with breathing or speaking for kids?
Well-fitted mouth guards should not interfere with breathing or speaking for kids. Custom mouth guards are designed to provide comfort and allow for easy communication, making it easier for children to adapt to wearing them during activities.
What should parents do if their child experiences discomfort or irritation from wearing a mouth guard?
If your child experiences discomfort or irritation while wearing a kid’s mouth guard in Ashburn, consult our dentist to ensure proper fit and adjustment.
