How Custom Athletic Mouthguards Can Help Prevent Youth Concussions

For young athletes, sports are not just a way to stay active—they’re a passion and a source of fun. However, along with the thrills of competition come the risks of injury, especially concussions. While helmets are often the first line of defense, custom athletic mouthguards play an important role in protecting your child’s head and teeth during sports. At Dental Care Center at Kennestone, we specialize in creating custom-fitted mouthguards that provide superior protection compared to over-the-counter options. But how exactly can a mouthguard help prevent concussions in youth sports?

The Connection Between Mouthguards and Concussion Prevention

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body, leading to the brain moving rapidly inside the skull. Youth athletes, particularly in high-contact sports like football, hockey, and soccer, are at a higher risk for concussions. According to the CDC, concussions are responsible for nearly 15% of all sports-related injuries among high school athletes.

Mouthguards are not just about protecting teeth; they also help absorb and distribute the force of impact to the head, jaw, and neck. When an athlete takes a hit, a well-fitted mouthguard helps cushion the blow, reducing the chances of the jaw being forced backward, which can lead to a concussion. This protection is enhanced with custom mouthguards, which are specifically designed for the individual athlete, ensuring a proper fit that optimizes shock absorption.

Why Custom Mouthguards Are More Effective

There are different types of mouthguards available, but custom-fitted options provide the best protection. Here’s why:

1. Superior Fit

Unlike store-bought, one-size-fits-all mouthguards, custom athletic mouthguards are made from a mold of your child’s teeth. This personalized fit ensures that the mouthguard stays in place during play, covering all the necessary areas. A poorly fitted mouthguard can shift during impact, reducing its effectiveness in preventing injuries.

According to research published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, athletes who wear custom mouthguards are 60% less likely to suffer dental injuries compared to those who wear over-the-counter guards. A custom mouthguard’s precise fit also improves comfort, making it easier for young athletes to wear during long games or practice sessions.

2. Enhanced Shock Absorption

Custom mouthguards are designed to provide optimal thickness in key areas, ensuring that the mouthguard effectively absorbs and distributes the force of impact. The materials used in custom-fitted guards are typically more durable and resilient than over-the-counter options, providing better protection during collisions.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends the use of custom-fitted mouthguards, particularly for athletes in high-impact sports. A study by the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that athletes who used custom mouthguards experienced fewer concussions and less severe head injuries compared to those using generic guards.

3. Protection Beyond the Teeth

While protecting teeth is the primary function of a mouthguard, the benefits extend far beyond. A custom mouthguard helps prevent jaw injuries, which can lead to jaw fractures and TMJ disorders. More importantly, by stabilizing the lower jaw, it reduces the risk of traumatic forces being transmitted to the skull, which can contribute to concussions.

Why Youth Athletes in Marietta Need Custom Mouthguards

Youth athletes in Marietta, particularly those involved in contact sports, are at risk for concussions and dental injuries. Whether your child plays football, soccer, basketball, or any other sport where physical contact is possible, wearing a custom athletic mouthguard is a smart preventive measure.

At Dental Care Center at Kennestone, we offer custom-fitted athletic mouthguards designed for comfort, durability, and maximum protection. We take precise molds of your child’s teeth to ensure that the mouthguard provides the best possible fit and protection. Our custom mouthguards are made from high-quality materials that offer superior shock absorption, keeping your child safe on the field, court, or rink.

The Long-Term Benefits of Custom Mouthguards

Investing in a custom athletic mouthguard for your child not only protects them from immediate injuries but can also save you from future dental or medical expenses. Sports-related dental injuries can be costly to treat, and a concussion can lead to long-term complications that affect your child’s academic performance and overall well-being.

In addition to preventing concussions, custom mouthguards reduce the risk of broken teeth, soft tissue injuries, and jaw damage. With regular use, you can protect your child’s oral health and keep them in the game.

Protect Your Child with a Custom Athletic Mouthguard from Dental Care Center at Kennestone

At Dental Care Center at Kennestone, we’re dedicated to providing young athletes in Marietta with the best oral health protection possible. If your child is involved in sports, a custom-fitted mouthguard can make all the difference in preventing concussions and dental injuries.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how a custom mouthguard can help safeguard your child’s health.

Posted on behalf of Dental Care Center at Kennestone