Ensuring your child’s oral health extends beyond brushing and flossing. Pediatric mouth guards are essential tools that safeguard your child’s teeth from various potential damages. Two key types of pediatric mouth guards—occlusal guards for teeth grinding and sports guards for protection during sports—play crucial roles in maintaining and protecting your child’s smile.
Occlusal Guards for Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a common issue among children, often occurring during sleep. This involuntary habit can lead to numerous dental problems, including tooth wear, jaw pain, headaches and disrupted sleep. Occlusal guards, also known as night guards, are specially designed to fit your child’s mouth, providing a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth. These guards help absorb the pressure from grinding and clenching, preventing damage to the teeth and alleviating discomfort. By using an occlusal guard, you can help your child maintain a healthy bite and reduce the risk of long-term dental complications.
Sports Guards for Protection During Sports
Active children participating in sports are at a higher risk of dental injuries. Whether playing contact sports like football and hockey or engaging in activities like gymnastics and skateboarding, a sports guard is essential for protecting your child’s teeth. Sports guards, also known as athletic mouth guards, are made from durable, shock-absorbent materials that cushion impacts to the mouth and jaw. These guards not only shield teeth from fractures, displacements and loss but also protect the soft tissues of the mouth, such as the gums and lips, from cuts and bruises. A properly fitted sports guard ensures that your child can enjoy their favorite activities with reduced risk of dental trauma.
Pediatric mouth guards, whether occlusal guards for teeth grinding or sports guards for athletic protection, are indispensable in safeguarding your child’s dental health.
Investing in these preventive measures can save your child from painful and costly dental issues in the future, ensuring they maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. Prioritize your child’s oral health by consulting with our pediatric dentist, Dr. Vikrum Nanda, to determine the best mouth guard solution for their needs. At Sugarbug & Dental Orthodontics in Oxnard, California, we are always here for your child’s developing smile!