Warm weather is finally here and with it comes an increased risk of sports injuries. As parents, we feel a strong responsibility to keep our children safe and prevent any potential injuries that may arise during sports activities. At Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan, we want to ensure that your child’s smile stays healthy and intact during seasons of outdoor play and contact sports.
Higher Injury Risk During the Summer
Unfortunately, sports injuries are all too common. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, over 3 million teeth are knocked out in youth sports each year. As the temperature heats up and kids get more involved in outdoor activities, the likelihood of these types of injuries increases.
Most Common Sports Injuries
Some of the most common sports injuries for children are dental injuries, followed by sprains and fractures. Dental injuries, in particular, can be especially traumatic for children. Losing a tooth can affect a child’s smile and speech, self-esteem, and long-term oral health.
Luckily, there are steps that parents can take to reduce the risk of dental and other injuries. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during sports activities can significantly decrease the likelihood of tooth damage. It’s important to ensure that the mouthguard covers at least the upper teeth fully and has proper cushioning in between the dental arches.
Protect Teeth, Lips, AND Reduce Concussions
Mouthguards not only protect teeth, but they can also reduce the risk of concussion. A properly designed and fitted mouthguard can absorb shock and provide cushioning for the teeth and jaw, helping to prevent blunt force trauma from reaching the base of the skull and brain.
In addition to wearing a mouthguard, children should also be encouraged to wear proper protective gear such as helmets, face shields, and padded clothing in contact sports. Supervision and safety guidelines from coaches and parents can also go a long way in reducing the risk of sports-related injuries.
At Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan, we prioritize the safety and oral health of our patients and truly believe that prevention is always the best medicine. We encourage parents to take proactive measures like investing in sports mouthguards to keep their children safe during sports activities. By doing so, we can help protect their teeth, lips, and overall wellbeing. Stay safe and enjoy the warm weather!
