Sports participation offers tremendous benefits for children’s physical and mental development. However, athletic activities also pose significant risks to young teeth and mouths. A kids dentist in North Bay understands these risks and helps families protect their children’s smiles during sports. At Northern Lakes Dental, the team specializes in preventing sports-related dental injuries through education and custom protective solutions.
Common Dental Injuries in Youth Sports
What types of dental injuries occur during sports?
Youth sports cause thousands of dental injuries each year in Canada. The most common injuries include:
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Knocked-out (avulsed) teeth
- Loosened or displaced teeth
- Soft tissue injuries (lips, cheeks, tongue, gums)
- Fractured jaw bones
- Root damage to teeth
Which sports pose the highest risk?
Contact sports create the greatest risk for dental injuries. High-risk activities include:
- Hockey (ice and field)
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Football
- Rugby
- Lacrosse
- Baseball and softball
- Martial arts
- Skateboarding and BMX biking
Even non-contact sports can result in dental injuries from falls, collisions, or equipment contact. A kids dentist in North Bay recommends protective gear for all athletic activities.
Why Children’s Teeth Need Extra Protection
What makes kids’ teeth more vulnerable during sports?
Children’s developing teeth and jaws are particularly susceptible to sports injuries for several reasons:
- Primary (baby) teeth have thinner enamel than permanent teeth
- Permanent teeth are still developing roots during childhood and adolescence
- Children’s jaw bones are softer and more prone to fractures
- Young athletes may have less developed coordination and reaction time
- Kids often participate in multiple sports, increasing exposure to injury risks
A kids dentist in North Bay monitors dental development and recommends appropriate protection based on each child’s age and activities.
The Critical Role of Mouthguards
Mouthguards represent the most effective way to prevent sports-related dental injuries. Research shows that athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to experience dental injuries. These protective devices cushion impacts and distribute forces that would otherwise damage teeth and jaws.
A kids dentist in North Bay can provide custom-fitted mouthguards that offer superior protection compared to store-bought options. Custom mouthguards fit precisely, stay in place during activity, and allow comfortable breathing and speaking.
Types of Mouthguards Available
Stock Mouthguards
These pre-formed guards come ready to wear without any customization. They offer minimal protection and often fit poorly. Most kids dentist in North Bay professionals do not recommend stock mouthguards because they can be uncomfortable and ineffective.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Available at sporting goods stores, these guards soften in hot water and mold to teeth when bitten. While better than stock guards, they still provide less protection than custom options. The fit can be inconsistent, and they may not stay in place during intense activity.
Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
A kids dentist in North Bay creates these guards specifically for each child’s mouth. The process involves taking precise impressions of the teeth. The resulting mouthguard fits perfectly, offers maximum protection, and remains comfortable during extended wear.
Benefits of Custom Mouthguards from a Kids Dentist in North Bay
Custom mouthguards from Northern Lakes Dental provide numerous advantages over generic alternatives:
Superior Protection
- Precise fit distributes impact forces evenly
- Covers all teeth completely without gaps
- Protects against tooth fractures, displacement, and loss
- Reduces risk of jaw injuries and concussions
Enhanced Comfort
- Stays in place without constant adjustment
- Allows normal breathing during activity
- Enables clear speech for team communication
- Doesn’t trigger gag reflex like poorly fitted guards
Durability and Longevity
- Made from high-quality, medical-grade materials
- Withstands repeated impacts and regular use
- Lasts longer than store-bought alternatives
- Can be replaced as children’s mouths grow
Personalization Options
- Available in various colours and designs
- Can include team colours or favourite patterns
- Makes wearing the guard more appealing to kids
- Increases compliance with protective gear requirements
When Children Should Wear Mouthguards
A kids dentist in North Bay recommends mouthguard use for all contact and collision sports. However, protection extends beyond obvious high-risk activities.
Always Wear Mouthguards For:
- Any sport with physical contact between players
- Activities involving flying objects (balls, pucks, equipment)
- Sports with risk of falls or collisions
- Recreational activities like skateboarding or rollerblading
Consider Mouthguards For:
- Gymnastics and cheerleading (risk of falls)
- Cycling and mountain biking
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Any activity where dental injury is possible
Children who wear braces need mouthguards even more urgently. Orthodontic appliances can cause additional soft tissue damage during impacts. A kids dentist in North Bay can create special mouthguards designed to fit over braces comfortably.
Getting Custom Mouthguards at Northern Lakes Dental
The process of obtaining a custom mouthguard from a kids dentist in North Bay is simple and quick:
Step 1: Consultation and Assessment
The dental team evaluates the child’s teeth, jaw development, and specific sport requirements. They discuss activity levels and any existing dental work or orthodontics.
Step 2: Impression Taking
Precise impressions of the upper and lower teeth are created. This process is quick and comfortable for children. The impressions capture every detail needed for a perfect fit.
Step 3: Custom Fabrication
The mouthguard is created in a dental laboratory using the impressions. High-quality materials ensure durability and protection. The guard is designed specifically for the child’s mouth structure.
Step 4: Fitting and Adjustment
The child tries on the completed mouthguard at Northern Lakes Dental. The kids dentist in North Bay checks the fit and makes any necessary adjustments. Parents receive care instructions and replacement guidelines.
Caring for Sports Mouthguards
Proper maintenance extends the life of custom mouthguards and ensures continued protection:
After Each Use:
- Rinse immediately with cool water
- Brush gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste
- Allow to air dry completely before storing
- Store in a ventilated protective case
Regular Maintenance:
- Check for wear, tears, or damage before each use
- Clean the storage case regularly
- Bring to dental appointments for professional inspection
- Replace when fit becomes loose or material shows wear
A kids dentist in North Bay can assess mouthguard condition during regular checkups. Growing children may need new guards as their mouths develop and teeth emerge.
What to Do If Dental Injury Occurs
Despite protective gear, dental injuries can still happen. Quick action makes a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
For a Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth:
- Find the tooth and handle it by the crown (not the root)
- Rinse gently with water if dirty (don’t scrub)
- Try to reinsert the tooth in the socket if possible
- If reinsertion isn’t possible, store in milk or saliva
- Contact a kids dentist in North Bay immediately
For Chipped or Cracked Teeth:
- Rinse the mouth with warm water
- Save any tooth fragments if possible
- Apply cold compress to reduce swelling
- Schedule an emergency appointment promptly
For Soft Tissue Injuries:
- Clean the area gently with water
- Apply pressure with clean gauze to stop bleeding
- Use cold compress to reduce swelling
- Seek dental care if bleeding doesn’t stop
Northern Lakes Dental, located at 60 Champlain Street, Suite 201 in North Bay, provides emergency dental care for sports injuries. Parents can call 705.472.5300 for urgent situations.
The Long-Term Value of Prevention
Investing in custom mouthguards from a kids dentist in North Bay protects more than just teeth. Preventing dental injuries avoids:
- Emergency dental visits and treatments
- Costly restorative procedures like crowns or implants
- Pain and discomfort for children
- Time away from sports and activities
- Potential long-term complications from untreated injuries
The cost of a custom mouthguard is minimal compared to treating dental injuries. Most dental insurance plans cover preventive mouthguards for children participating in sports.
Supporting Young Athletes at Northern Lakes Dental
The team at Northern Lakes Dental in North Bay, Ontario, is committed to keeping young athletes safe. They understand the importance of sports in children’s lives and work to ensure participation remains safe and enjoyable.
Parents can contact Northern Lakes Dental at 705.472.5300 to discuss mouthguard options. The email address smile@northernlakesdental.ca is also available for inquiries about sports dentistry services.
Don’t wait until an injury occurs to protect your child’s smile. Schedule a consultation with a kids dentist in North Bay today. Custom mouthguards provide peace of mind while your child enjoys the sports they love.