Blog

In this article, we will discuss the increasing importance of mouthguards due to the growing participation of children in sports activities, both in our country and around the world.

Sports that involve physical contact with opponents, such as boxing, taekwondo, jiu-jitsu, and kickboxing, as well as individual sports like ice hockey, equestrian sports, and cycling, often lead to injuries in the mouth and dental area. Team sports such as basketball, football, volleyball, and handball also frequently result in injuries to the mouth and teeth. During these sports, children can experience injuries not only to their teeth but also to their jawbones and gums from falls or collisions. Head and facial injuries are quite common due to sports accidents. Studies show that sports injuries account for approximately one-quarter of all injuries in both children and adults. Common injuries include broken, displaced front teeth in the upper jaw, jaw fractures, and gum lacerations. These injuries can cause not only medical issues but also serious psychological problems for both the child and their family. In some cases, it may even alter the family’s and child’s perspective on sports, potentially leading them to withdraw from sporting activities.

Consequences of Injuries

The severity of these injuries can be more pronounced in children with a protruding upper jaw. Prompt treatment by a pediatric dentist knowledgeable in jaw trauma is crucial to properly repair the damage. For more detailed information, please refer to my articles.

Reducing the severity of impacts to the jaw and face during sports is vital to minimizing the negative outcomes of such injuries. To protect the teeth, jawbone, lips, tongue, and soft tissues inside the mouth, flexible intraoral appliances known as “mouthguards” should be used. These mouthguards significantly reduce the incidence of fractures and injuries to the mouth and jaw during sports activities.

Benefits of Mouthguards

Mouthguards also help reduce the impact force on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), thereby decreasing intracranial pressure and potential fractures in the bones. It is important for coaches, parents, and athletes to be aware of the benefits of mouthguards and to promote their use.

Mouthguards can be categorized into two types: ready-made and custom-made by a pediatric dentist. Ready-made mouthguards may not fit the individual’s natural dental and jaw structures as well as custom-made ones, and may cause irritation due to unsuitable materials. This discomfort can make it difficult for children to use them consistently.

Evaluating the child’s oral tissues, jaw structure, and the type of sport they participate in is crucial for deciding on the appropriate type of mouthguard. A pediatric dentist assesses the common sources of impact and the most vulnerable areas of the jaw and face to tailor the mouthguard accordingly. Any discomfort experienced while using the mouthguard can be addressed during follow-up appointments to ensure the child’s comfort and continued use.

Encouraging the use of mouthguards, particularly by sports coaches, is important for preventing sports-related injuries in children.

For any questions or to schedule an examination, our team is here to assist you.

Prof. Dr. Ayça Tuba Ulusoy

Yummy Teeth Child & Adolescent

Oral and Dental Health Clinic