5 Pediatric Dental Milestones Every Parent Should Track
As your child grows up, you get to experience the excitement of watching them hit all kinds of developmental milestones. Discover what 5 dental milestones every parent should track.
Mouth Guards for Kids: Do Young Athletes Really Need One?
As youth sports season kicks into high gear, parents often focus on helmets, pads, and cleats. However, one of the most critical pieces of safety gear is often overlooked. Protecting your child's teeth during active play is essential for preventing painful and costly dental injuries.
At Yorktown Pediatric Dentistry in Yorktown Heights, New York, Dr. Staci Brunell, DMD, and our team help families keep young smiles safe. Through our comprehensive preventive dentistry services, we guide parents on the best ways to protect their children's teeth during sports.
Why mouth guards for kids are essential
Mouth guards act as shock absorbers, shielding teeth, lips, and gums from sudden impacts. According to the American Dental Association (ADA, 2025), athletes who wear mouth guards are between 82% and 93% less likely to suffer dentofacial injuries during collision sports. These simple devices distribute the force of a blow, preventing severe trauma to the mouth.
Without this protection, a single collision can lead to chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth. If your child does experience a sports-related dental injury, we provide prompt care through our emergency dentistry services to save their smile.
Which sports require mouth guards?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD, 2023) recommends that leagues and coaches mandate the use of properly fitted mouth guards for all organized sporting activities that carry a risk of orofacial injury. This includes not just contact sports like football, but also basketball, soccer, and gymnastics.
While stock mouth guards are available at most sporting goods stores, they often feel bulky and make breathing difficult. Custom-fabricated mouth guards made by a pediatric dentist offer a superior fit, making them much more comfortable and easier for your child to wear consistently. When a device fits well, young athletes are much more likely to keep it in their mouths during the entire game.
Do mouth guards prevent concussions?
A common misconception among parents is that wearing a mouth guard will protect their child from sustaining a concussion. However, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS, 2026) notes that current medical research does not support the use of mouth guards as a proven method for reducing concussions or mild traumatic brain injuries. They are designed to protect the teeth and oral tissues, not the brain.
While they are incredibly effective at preventing broken teeth and jaw fractures, they cannot protect the brain from impact. Parents should still rely on properly certified helmets and safe play techniques to minimize concussion risks.
Investing in a high-quality mouth guard is one of the simplest ways to safeguard your child's oral health. Our team is here to help you find the perfect fit for your young athlete's active lifestyle. To get started on protecting your child's smile, book an appointment online with our team today.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Understanding Your Child's Fluoride Needs
Ensuring your child gets enough fluoride is an important part of preventing cavities. Learn more about fluoride and why it’s so important for your child.
Tips and Tricks to Make Brushing Fun For Your Child
When your child enjoys brushing and looks forward to it, it makes it much easier for them to maintain their routine. Try these tips to help your kid enjoy brushing their teeth.
Caring Smiles For Every Child: What A Special Needs Pediatric Dentist Visit Looks Like
When your child has special needs, anxiety about going to the dentist can be heightened even more. This is how the dental team keeps your child with special needs comfortable and happy during a pediatric dental visit.
Why Would a Child Need a Tooth Extraction?
In addition to naturally losing baby teeth, your child can sometimes need a tooth extraction. Find out the most common reasons for a pediatric tooth extraction.
Is Your Child's Valentine's Day Candy Causing Cavities?
The sweets that accompany the love in the air on Valentine's Day can do a number on your child’s teeth. Taking a few sensible measures helps. Follow these tips to help your child enjoy a cavity-free Valentine's Day.