Mouth Guards: Keeping Smiles Safe
As children and teens engage in sports and activities, the chance of an accidental bump or hit increases. A properly fitted mouth guard is an essential tool to protect their teeth and mouth. Mouth guards help prevent injuries to the teeth, lips, tongue, face, and jaw, and they’re recommended for any activity with a risk of facial contact. For the best fit and comfort, consider a custom-fitted mouth guard from our dental office. This provides your child with extra protection and peace of mind during sports.
Being Aware of Sports Drinks
While sports drinks may seem refreshing, they contain high levels of sugar and acid, which can harm your child’s teeth and lead to cavities. To keep their smile healthy and strong, encourage your child to drink water before, during, and after sports.
If sports drinks are a part of their routine, here are some simple tips to help protect their teeth:
- Limit how often and how long they sip on sports drinks.
- Encourage quick drinking to avoid swishing it in the mouth.
- Offer water between sips of sports drinks.
- Rinse mouth guards with water only.
- Choose sports drinks that are less harmful to teeth when possible.
If you have questions about the effects of sports drinks, our team is here to help!
Mouth Piercings – Rethinking the Trend
Mouth piercings in areas like the tongue, lips, or cheeks are becoming popular, but they come with risks. Common side effects include pain, swelling, infections, and gum damage. In some cases, piercings can lead to more serious issues, such as nerve damage or prolonged bleeding. The American Dental Association recommends avoiding mouth piercings to help protect dental health. Opting out of mouth jewelry is a thoughtful choice for a healthier, happier smile.
Tobacco – The Facts Teens Need
Tobacco in any form can seriously impact your child’s health, causing irreversible damage. Educating teens about its dangers can empower them to make healthier choices.
Many young people believe smokeless tobacco (often called spit, chew, or snuff) is a safer alternative to smoking, but this is a misconception. Smokeless tobacco can be even more addictive than cigarettes, and just one dose of snuff contains as much nicotine as 60 cigarettes. Even within a few months, smokeless tobacco can lead to gum disease and pre-cancerous patches in the mouth, known as leukoplakia.
If your child uses tobacco, be aware of early signs of oral cancer, including:
- Sores that don’t heal.
- White or red leathery patches on the lips, tongue, or under the tongue.
- Pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or lips.
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking.
- Changes in how their teeth fit together.
Oral cancer is often painless in its early stages, which is why regular check-ups and prompt attention to symptoms are essential. Early detection can make a big difference.
The Hidden Risks of Vaping
Vaping, or the use of e-cigarettes, is increasingly popular, but it poses significant risks to oral health. E-cigarettes convert nicotine into vapor, which reduces blood flow and limits the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the gums. Over time, this increases the risk of periodontal (gum) disease and weakens the body’s ability to fight infections in the mouth, heal, and regenerate new cells.
Signs of periodontal disease to watch for include:
- Persistent bad breath.
- Inflamed or bleeding gums.
- Redness, tenderness, or swelling in the gums.
- Loose teeth.
- Gum recession.
- Tooth loss.
Encourage your teen to avoid all forms of tobacco, including vaping. By making informed choices, they can reduce their risk of disease and avoid harmful chemicals, supporting their overall health and well-being.
At Brooker Memorial, we’re here to guide and support your family’s health every step of the way. Together, we can foster a healthier, brighter future for all the young smiles in our community.
