Call Today: 412-257-1150
With school back in session comes the sports season. If your son or daughter is participating in a sport where there is even the slightest chance of a blow or impact to their mouth, you should consider having a mouthguard custom-made by our dentist. The dentist will take a mold of your child’s mouth to ensure a better fit and better protection than is afforded by a mouthguard purchased in a store. A mouthguard is an especially important piece of equipment if your child has braces, since it will protect his or her teeth, and the dental work.
Once you have the mouthguard, you need to take steps to make certain that it remains clean and that it is in good shape so that it can protect your child’s teeth.
You child should brush and rinse their teeth before and after using the mouthguard. This will help prevent the spread of bacteria from your child’s mouth to the mouthguard, and any residual bacteria from the mouthguard to your child. The mouthguard itself should be regularly brushed with toothpaste and a toothbrush and then rinsed with soapy water. Soaking the mouthguard in an antimicrobial solution is another good preventative step. The mouthguard should be thoroughly dried and placed in a protective case. The case should have vents to allow air to get to the guard.
You should discourage your child from chewing on the mouthguard, since doing so can create holes, tears and cracks that can provide a breeding ground for bacteria. When the mouthguard begins to show signs of pits and cracks, it is time for a new one.
If you are interested in a custom-made mouthguard for your student this sports season, make an appointment to see Dr. Courtney Uselton at Pediatric Dentistry South in city, state by calling 412-257-1150. We look forward to helping your son or daughter have a successful and safe sports season.
