The Chicago Bulls player suffered a nasty fall during the game against Golden State Warriors. He landed on his face after a dunk-chipping and dislocating two of his front teeth. This incident is a reminder why it’s important to wear mouth guards for protecting teeth during sports and recreational activities.
Though most parents support the concept of their children wearing mouth guards for protecting their smiles, the fact is that many teeth are knocked out every year because of sports-related injuries.
Pain in the Mouth; Costs to Repair Lost Tooth Far Exceeds Parent Perceptions
According to dentist near you a mouth guard is one of the most inexpensive pieces of protective gear available to the young athletes, especially when compared to the high cost of restoring a knocked out or broken tooth. Restorations are way costlier than most people estimate. Some people believe that the cost of replacing a damaged tooth is around 1142 dollars, but in reality it can range from 5000 dollars to 20000 dollars. Also, the restorations have to be repeated from time to time which further increases the cost of replacement.
Which Sports Should Require Mouth Guards?
Studies reveal that most of the parents have misconceptions regarding sports injuries and mouth guards. Parents ask for mouth guards for sports such as hockey and football. Less than half of the parents ask for the mouth guard for basket ball. However, basket ball is ranked top when it comes to dental injuries. How schools and parents approach mouth guards is largely based on the lack of knowledge. Parents are unaware that sharp elbows or baseball to the mouth can cause serious damage.
Thus, every player is encouraged to wear a mouth guard irrespective of the kind of sports they are playing.
No More Excuses
Parents know that there can be a lot of resistance from the children who don’t want to wear a mouth guard. Parents give in to the resistance by children. However, it is important for parents, coaches, and children to know the risks that are involved in playing sports without a mouth guard.
