Mouthguards Matter: Pediatric Dentist Loveland Youth Safety Tips

Insights From The Pediatric Dentist Loveland Trusts

April is National Youth Sports Safety Month, and if your child plays sports, now is the perfect time to think about their smile. From soccer fields to basketball courts and even weekend skatepark sessions, kids are out there giving it their all—and accidents can happen in a flash. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your child’s teeth? A well-fitted mouthguard.

At The Toothzone Network, your pediatric dentist Loveland trusts, we see firsthand how one small piece of gear can prevent a big dental emergency. Let’s break down why mouthguards are essential for active kids and how to ensure your child is protected this season.

The Real Risk Behind Youth Sports

While team sports offer incredible benefits—teamwork, discipline, fitness—they also come with an undeniable risk of injury. According to the American Dental Association, athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries when they’re not wearing a mouthguard.

Broken teeth, lip lacerations, and jaw injuries aren’t just painful—they’re costly, emotionally stressful, and sometimes permanent. Unfortunately, dental injuries in youth sports are far more common than many parents realize.

That’s why National Youth Sports Safety Month is such a crucial reminder: keeping your child’s smile safe is just as important as strapping on a helmet or tying up their cleats.

Why Every Young Athlete Needs a Mouthguard

Think of a mouthguard as a helmet for your child’s teeth. It acts as a cushion, absorbing the impact from falls, collisions, or accidental elbows to the face. But beyond just protecting teeth, mouthguards can also help prevent:

• Jaw fractures
• Concussions (by reducing the force of an impact)
• Cuts to lips and cheeks
• Tooth loss

As a pediatric dentist in Loveland, we’ve seen too many avoidable dental emergencies. The good news is that a simple, custom-fit mouthguard can prevent most of them.

Store-bought vs. Custom Mouthguards

Not all mouthguards offer the same level of protection or comfort. Here’s how store-bought options stack up against custom mouthguards made by a pediatric dentist in Loveland:

Store-Bought Mouthguards (Boil-and-Bite):

• One-size-fits-all fit – often loose or bulky
• Can feel uncomfortable or irritate gums
• Offers moderate protection
• It may interfere with breathing or speaking
• Wears out faster and needs frequent replacement

Custom Mouthguards from The Toothzone Network:

• Precisely molded to your child’s teeth for a perfect fit
• Comfortable, lightweight, and easy to wear
• Provides superior protection for teeth, jaw, and soft tissues
• Allows for normal breathing and speaking during play
• Durable and built to last throughout the season

When Should Kids Wear a Mouthguard?

You might be surprised how many sports carry a risk of dental injury. It’s not just football or hockey! Mouthguards are recommended for:

• Basketball
• Soccer
• Baseball and Softball
• Martial Arts
• Wrestling
• Gymnastics
• Skateboarding and BMX
• Lacrosse
• Volleyball
• And more

If there’s a chance your child might fall, collide with another player, or get hit with a ball or piece of equipment, it’s time for a mouthguard.

Make It a Habit, Not a Hassle

Getting your child to wear their mouthguard can be easier than you think—especially when it’s comfortable and custom-fit. Here are a few tips to build the habit:

• Start early: Introduce the mouthguard at practice, not just games.
• Lead by example: If you’re active in sports yourself, wear a mouthguard, too!
• Please keep it clean: Teach your child to rinse it after use and store it in its case.
• Replace when needed: Kids’ mouths change quickly—make sure the fit stays snug.

Keep Smiles Safe with The Toothzone Network in Loveland

At The Toothzone Network, we specialize in protecting young smiles. Our team makes custom mouthguards that fit comfortably, let your child play at their best, and give parents peace of mind. Whether your little one is gearing up for their first soccer game or heading into a new sports season, we’ve got them covered.

Don’t wait for an injury to take you off the field—be proactive. Please schedule a consultation today with the top-rated pediatric dentist Loveland trusts. Let’s get your child ready to play safely. Request an appointment now or give us a call—we’re here to help your MVP stay safe, strong, and smiling all season long.