With the progress of September, Ottawa becomes full of excitement—the youth hockey leagues are getting ready, soccer tournaments are coming up, and the autumn sports are preparing for action too! If your children are going to put on their skates at the Sensplex or go out onto the field for a game of friendly competition, then this is the season when getting ready for sports is in full flow.

It’s easy for parents to remember things like helmets or shin guards, but there’s one important piece of equipment which is often neglected until it’s too late: the mouthguard. 

Why Standard Store-Bought Guards Fall Short

When it comes to mouthguards, the standard “boil-and-bite” options might seem convenient, but they often fall short in several key areas:

1. Regarding fit and comfort: Although these ready-made guards may be bulky and uncomfortable, this can make it hard for children to breathe or to communicate properly when they are on the bench; it is important to have a secure fit for both performance and comfort.

2. Regarding protection: custom-made mouthguards offer more than just tooth protection; they are able to absorb and distribute the impact, thus protecting the gums, the lips, and the jaw joints. Such full-scale protection is important, particularly in those vigorous games in which each play is significant.

3. When it comes to durability, unlike those that are mass produced, custom mouthguards are made from accurate dental impressions and therefore maintain their shape throughout the entire season of playing. As a result, you get more dependable protection and need to worry less about having to replace them halfway through the season because of breakage or distortion.

Dr. Sheema’s Secret

You shouldn’t just believe me—Dr. Sheema stresses that getting a custom mouthguard is one of the wisest preventive steps you can take for your young athlete. Since a cracked tooth can later lead to thousands of dollars worth of dental repairs, it’s a shrewd investment which not only offers protection but also gives you peace of mind.

When you’re collecting equipment for your young athletes this autumn, be sure not to forget the mouthguard. To go the extra mile, choose a custom-made one since it provides the highest level of comfort and best protection. 

Here’s an exciting season of sports ahead—make sure to protect your children’s smiles when they’re playing on the ice or in the field!