As summer blazes on and fall approaches, high school summer practices have started up. Oklahoma kids are lacing up cleats, grabbing gear, and heading back into the action—whether it’s on the soccer field, football gridiron, basketball court, or even the skatepark. While sports are an amazing way for kids to stay active, build teamwork skills, and have fun, they also come with risks—especially to your child’s smile.
Dental injuries are surprisingly common in youth sports. According to the American Dental Association, athletes who don’t wear mouth protection are 60 times more likely to suffer harm to their teeth. So, as sports season picks up, let’s talk about the MVP of dental safety: the mouthguard—and what you should do if an accident does happen.
Why a Mouthguard Matters More Than You Think
Think of a mouthguard as a helmet for your child’s teeth. It’s a small piece of gear that can prevent some pretty big problems, including:
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Cut lips or cheeks
- Jaw injuries
- Concussions (in some cases)
Mouthguards absorb and redistribute the force of impact, protecting not only teeth but the surrounding soft tissue and bones. Any sport that involves contact, speed, or the risk of a fall—from football and hockey to basketball, baseball, soccer, and even gymnastics—should be played with a mouthguard.
Stock vs. Boil-and-Bite vs. Custom: Which Mouthguard Is Best?
Not all mouthguards are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown of your options:
1. Stock Mouthguards
These are pre-formed and ready to wear, usually found at sporting goods stores. They’re inexpensive but tend to be bulky and can make breathing or speaking difficult. Since they’re not fitted to your child’s mouth, they offer minimal protection.
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
A step up from stock versions, these are softened in hot water and then shaped around the teeth. They’re affordable and offer a semi-custom fit, making them a popular choice among families.
3. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
Made by a dentist using a mold of your child’s teeth, these offer the best protection, comfort, and durability. They may cost more, but they’re worth it—especially for kids playing in high-impact sports or those with braces.
Pro tip: Custom mouthguards are often more breathable, easier to talk with, and less likely to be left on the bench because they’re actually comfortable to wear.
What to Do if Dental Trauma Happens
Even with precautions, accidents happen. Here’s what you should do if your child sustains a dental injury:
Tooth Knocked Out (Avulsed)
- Find the tooth and hold it by the crown (not the root).
- If dirty, gently rinse with water—no soap or scrubbing!
- Try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or a tooth preservation solution (never water).
- Get to a dentist immediately—within 30 minutes is ideal.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
- Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water.
- Save any broken pieces in milk if possible.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Call your dentist right away.
Tooth Pushed Out of Position
- Don’t try to move it yourself.
- Have your child gently bite down to keep the tooth in place.
- Contact your dentist immediately for evaluation and treatment.
Soft Tissue Injuries (Lips, Tongue, Cheeks)
- Clean the area gently with water.
- Apply pressure with gauze if there’s bleeding.
- Use an ice pack for swelling.
- See a doctor or dentist if the injury is deep or doesn’t stop bleeding.
Encourage a Culture of Protection
Just like you wouldn’t let your child play football without a helmet or ride a bike without a helmet, dental protection should be non-negotiable.
Here’s how to get your child on board:
- Educate early – Help your child understand the “why” behind wearing a mouthguard.
- Let them help choose the color or style of their mouthguard.
- Set a good example – If you play a sport, wear your own protective gear proudly.
- Work with coaches to ensure mouthguards are part of the uniform and rules.
Regular Dental Checkups: The Other Half of the Game Plan
Regular dental visits are a great time to:
- Check the fit of a current mouthguard
- Make a new custom one if needed
- Assess any past injuries
- Catch issues like cavities or gum disease before they become worse with sports stress
Your child’s dentist is your teammate in keeping their smile healthy and strong through every season.
Final Whistle
Sports help kids grow stronger in body and spirit—but protecting their teeth ensures their smile grows right alongside them. A well-fitted mouthguard, quick action during accidents, and regular dental care go a long way in keeping those pearly whites intact.
So this season, make “mouthguard” as essential as “water bottle” and “cleats.” Your future orthodontic bills (and your kid’s smile) will thank you.
Trust Tecumseh Ridge Dental to Keep Your Athlete Smiling
As a parent, you do everything you can to support your child’s athletic passions—don’t forget to protect their teeth, too. At Tecumseh Ridge Dental, Dr. Wheatley is committed to helping families in Norman and the surrounding area keep smiles healthy, strong, and injury-free through every sports season.
To schedule a custom mouthguard fitting or emergency dental consultation, contact Tecumseh Ridge Dental today. Let’s make sure your child is ready to play—safely and confidently. Call 405-857-6453 to schedule your consultation.
