Dr Jana is a very caring person. She explains everything you need in your care plan with great detail and allows time for questions. I have been going to Oak Park Dental for 20 plus years and I trust Dr. Jana completely. She is trustworthy and is always up to date on her dental knowledge and schooling. I highly recommend and encourage anyone needing Dental Care to give Oak Park Dental a call.
April is National Facial Protection Month, a great reminder that spring sports are in full swing – and so are the risks of dental injuries. Whether your child plays baseball, soccer, basketball, or any active sport, making safety a priority is essential. One of the best ways to protect young athletes is with a custom mouthguard made by your dentist.
Dental injuries are surprisingly common in youth sports. Research shows that athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are up to 60 times more likely to suffer harm to the teeth and mouth than those who do, according to the National Center for Sports Safety. Sports-related dental trauma accounts for a significant portion of facial injuries, and even non-contact sports can still pose risks of falls and collisions.
Why Choose a Custom Mouthguard?
When it comes to custom protection, a sports mouthguard from your dentist offers advantages that store-bought or boil-and-bite guards simply can’t match:
- Tailored Fit – Custom mouthguards are crafted from an impression of your child’s teeth, ensuring a snug fit that stays in place during activity. A custom guard won’t interfere with breathing or speaking.
- Better Protection – Because they fit precisely, custom athletic guards distribute impact forces more evenly, helping to protect not just teeth, but also lips, cheeks, and jaws. A properly fitted mouthguard is recommended by dental professionals to reduce the risk and severity of oral injuries.
- Comfort and Durability – These mouthguards are more comfortable and durable than generic versions. Kids are more likely to wear them consistently when they fit well and don’t feel bulky.
It’s Not Just for Football
Many people assume mouthguards are only for contact sports, but dental injuries happen across a wide range of activities. Basketball, baseball, and soccer players all face risks of getting hit by a ball, colliding with another player, or falling—leading to chips, cracks, or even knocked-out teeth.
Other Protective Gear to Consider
In addition to a custom mouthguard, your child may benefit from other protective equipment based on their sport:
- Helmets – Vital for sports like football, softball, lacrosse, biking, and skateboarding to protect against head and jaw injuries.
- Protective Eyewear – Important in sports like racquetball, basketball, or field hockey to shield eyes from impact.
- Face Shields or Guards – These add an extra layer of protection in sports with high-velocity balls or collisions.
Make Safety a Priority This Spring
A custom mouthguard from Oak Park Dental is a small investment that can make a big difference in your child’s safety and confidence on the field or court. Instead of struggling with an ill-fitting store guard, a custom-made mouthguard provides superior comfort, protection, and peace of mind for parents and players alike.
In addition to athletic mouthguards, Oak Park Dental provides custom-made guards to stop dental damage caused by teeth grinding. Many people grind their teeth in their sleep, and a guard can safeguard teeth from chips, cracks, and similar damage.
Call Oak Park Dental today at 608-351-0192 to schedule an appointment in Madison, WI. Make sure your young athlete is properly protected before the next big game. Your child’s smile is worth it!