Sports-related accidents are one of the leading causes of dental injuries. Currently, only a handful of sports require the use of athletic mouthguards. These sports are football, lacrosse, field hockey, and ice hockey. Wrestlers who have braces are also required to wear athletic mouthguards. As a result of their preventive practices, other sports like baseball/softball, basketball, and soccer have a higher incidence of oral trauma. In fact, baseball has the highest incidence of sports-related dental injuries in children seven to 12 years old, and basketball has the highest incidence of sports-related dental injuries in children 13 to 17 years old. Both the American Dental Academy and the International Academy for Sports Dentistry recommend the use of athletic mouthguards for 29 different sports and exercise activities. Regardless of what sport your child plays, be sure to protect their smile!
-Dr. Jon and Team HappyHealthyTeeth