Spring is almost here, and that means soccer fields are filling up, baseballs are flying, bikes are rolling, and kids are back outside playing hard. While we love seeing our patients stay active, April also brings an important reminder: it’s National Facial Protection Month, sponsored by the Academy for Sports Dentistry (ASD). 

This month is dedicated to raising awareness about preventing dental and facial injuries, especially during sports and recreational activities. Let’s talk about why facial protection matters and how you can help keep those smiles safe all season long. 

Dental Injuries Are More Common Than You Think 

Did you know that sports-related activities are one of the leading causes of dental injuries in children and teens? According to the Academy for Sports Dentistry, athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are significantly more likely to experience broken teeth, knocked‑out teeth, lip injuries, and jaw fractures. 

Common spring activities that pose a risk include: 

• Soccer 

• Baseball and softball 

• Lacrosse 

• Basketball 

• Skateboarding and biking 

• Scooters and playground play 

Even non‑contact sports come with unexpected collisions, falls, or flying objects. Protecting your child’s face and teeth now can prevent lifelong dental complications later. 

Why Mouthguards Matter (A Lot!) 

A properly fitted mouthguard acts like a shock absorber, protecting: 

• Teeth 

• Gums 

• Lips and cheeks 

• Jaw joints 

• Facial bones 

Mouthguards reduce the risk of: 

• Chipped or fractured teeth 

• Teeth being knocked out 

• Cuts to the lips or tongue 

• Jaw injuries and concussions 

The Academy for Sports Dentistry strongly recommends mouthguard use for both contact and non‑contact sports, especially for growing smiles. 

Not All Mouthguards Are Created Equal 

There are three main types of mouthguards, but one stands out above the rest: 

1. Stock Mouthguards 

1. One‑size‑fits‑all 

2. Bulky and uncomfortable 

3. Least protective 

2. Boil‑and‑Bite Mouthguards 

1. Molded at home 

2. Better than stock, but still limited 

3. Custom Dental Mouthguards  

1. Made by your child’s dentist 

2. Comfortable, breathable, and durable 

3. Best protection and fit 

Custom mouthguards are especially important for children with braces, orthodontic appliances, or mixed dentition (baby and adult teeth together). 

Beyond Mouthguards: Full Facial Protection 

Depending on the activity, additional protective gear may include: 

• Helmets with face shields 

• Cages or masks (baseball catchers, hockey, lacrosse) 

• Protective eyewear 

These tools work together to protect not just teeth, but the entire face and head. 

Building Safe Habits Early 

Teaching kids to use protective equipment consistently builds habits that can last a lifetime. When kids see mouthguards as part of their uniform, just like helmets or cleats, they’re far more likely to wear them without complaint. 

Parents play a crucial role by: 

• Encouraging proper gear use 

• Choosing high‑quality protection 

• Replacing worn or ill‑fitting mouthguards 

• Scheduling dental visits before sports seasons start 

If you have any questions regarding a mouth guard, please don't hesitate to ask yours truly, UPD Dental Associates. We are always here to support and answer any questions you may have. See you at your next appointment! 

Sources 

1. Academy for Sports Dentistry. Mouthguards. Academy for Sports Dentistry, www.academyforsportsdentistry.org. 

2. American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Policy on Prevention of Sports-Related Orofacial Injuries. AAPD, www.aapd.org. 

3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sports-Related Injuries. CDC, www.cdc.gov/injury.