Tips to Prevent Sports Injuries from Dentistry in Monrovia

Keeping children active in sports is one of the best ways to support their physical and mental development. However, athletic activities can also come with the risk of dental injuries, especially for kids involved in contact sports like football, soccer, basketball, and even skateboarding. A fractured tooth or displaced braces can cause discomfort, high dental bills, and skipped games. That’s where preventative dental care steps in. Whether you’re a parent, coach, or athlete, it’s essential to understand how to protect young smiles before the game begins.

In our previous blog, we discussed the impact of a nutritious diet on children's oral health. In this blog, we will address five ideas to prevent injuries during sports for children.

Advice on Preventing Sports Injuries From a Pediatric Dentist

Here are five practical tips straight from experienced professionals in dentistry in Monrovia to help reduce the risk of sports-related dental injuries in children.

1. Always Wear a Custom-Fitted Mouthguard

One of the most effective ways to protect your child’s teeth is with a custom-fitted mouthguard. These devices cushion the impact from a hit or fall, minimizing the risk of broken teeth, jaw injuries, and cuts inside the mouth.

Unlike over-the-counter mouthguards that often don’t fit properly and can be uncomfortable, custom mouthguards made by a dental professional offer maximum protection and comfort. If your child wears braces, it’s especially important to get a mouthguard that accommodates them to prevent damage to both teeth and brackets.

2. Choose the Right Helmet or Face Shield

In sports like baseball, football, or hockey, headgear plays a critical role in injury prevention. Helmets and face shields designed with dental safety in mind help absorb shock and shield the mouth from direct blows. They’re not just for head protection—they can reduce the risk of broken jaws and lost teeth as well.

Make sure your child's equipment is tailored to the sport and appropriately sized. An ill-fitting helmet might offer little to no protection and could even pose a greater risk during a fall or collision.

3. Keep Up with Regular Dental Checkups

Routine dental visits can identify vulnerabilities like loose teeth, enamel erosion, or poorly fitting orthodontic appliances that could make your child more susceptible to injuries during sports. A proactive approach helps ensure that any potential issues are managed before they become a problem on the field.

If you’re searching for a dentist near you in Monrovia, look for professionals who specialize in pediatric and sports dentistry for the most relevant care and advice tailored to active kids.

4. Reinforce Safe Play and Sportsmanship

While protective gear is essential, teaching children the value of safe play is equally important. Encourage your child to follow rules, respect referees, and avoid aggressive or reckless behavior during games.

Coaches and parents should also promote awareness about the dangers of using their heads or faces during play, such as heading the ball in soccer without proper technique. Prevention starts with education and awareness.

5. Secure Orthodontic Appliances Properly

You must take extra measures if your child wears braces or other orthodontic devices. A strike to the face can cause brackets to break or wires to bend, resulting in mouth wounds and further discomfort.

Your orthodontist in Monrovia can provide specific mouthguards or waxes designed to cover braces and reduce irritation during sports. Never let your child play contact sports without proper protection over their orthodontic appliances—it’s a recipe for pain and extended treatment time.

Conclusion

Oral injuries are not a necessary component of the game. With the right protective gear, regular dental checkups, and a focus on safe play, your child can enjoy sports with confidence and a healthy smile. Prevention is always more effective (and less costly) than treatment after the fact.

Whether your child is a weekend warrior or an aspiring athlete, make dental safety part of their game-day checklist. The right preparation can make all the difference—and save a lot of smiles in the process.Call now at 626-445-6666