One of the most common winter-time dental emergencies we see in kids dentistry is broken or chipped teeth due to accidental falls, sports collisions, or hard winter surfaces. The good news? Most of these injuries are preventable with the right gear—especially a proper mouthguard.

Why Winter Sports Increase the Risk of Dental Injuries

Even without snow, Sedona’s winter season creates ideal conditions for slips and falls. Kids move faster in cooler weather, sports ramp up around the holidays, and many participate in indoor leagues where contact is more frequent.

Common winter sports injury risks include:

• Falls while mountain biking or hiking slippery trails

• Elbows or balls to the mouth during indoor soccer or basketball

• Hard collisions during flag football or skateboarding

• Accidents while running or playing on cold, harder ground

These types of impacts can cause:

• Chipped teeth

• Broken teeth

• Knocked-out teeth

• Cuts to gums, lips, or cheeks

• Jaw injuries

That’s why mouthguards are a must for winter athletes of all ages.

How Mouthguards Protect Your Child’s Teeth

A mouthguard acts as a shock absorber, spreading out the force of impact so that teeth, gums, and jaw joints stay protected. Winter is a great time to reinforce this safety habit because activities tend to be more intense and unpredictable.

A proper mouthguard helps:

• Prevent broken or chipped teeth

• Protect braces or dental appliances

• Reduce risk of jaw injuries

• Minimize cuts to cheeks, lips, and gums

• Lower the chance of knocked-out teeth

According to dental professionals, wearing a mouthguard can reduce the risk of sports-related dental injuries by 60% or more.

Which Sports Need Mouthguards?

Your child should be wearing a mouthguard for:

• Basketball

• Soccer

• Mountain biking

• Hiking or trail running

• Skateboarding or scootering

• Wrestling or martial arts

• Flag football

• Any contact or fast-paced sport

In Sedona’s active outdoor environment, it’s better to err on the side of protection.

Store-Bought vs. Custom Mouthguards: What’s Better?

Parents often ask whether a generic mouthguard from a sporting goods store is enough. Here’s the difference:

✔️ Custom Mouthguards (recommended)

• Made by your pediatric dentist

• Fit perfectly to your child’s bite

• Stay in place securely

• Allow natural breathing and talking

• Offer the highest level of protection

✔️ Store-Bought “Boil and Bite” Mouthguards

• Cheaper but less durable

• Fit is not always comfortable

• Can shift during activity

• Provide less protection

If your child plays sports regularly, a custom mouthguard from Sedona Molar Kids is a smart investment in their long-term dental health.

Winter Break Tip: Great Time for a Mouthguard Fitting

Many families in Sedona, AZ schedule mouthguard fittings during winter break—perfect timing before kids jump into holiday sports, hiking trips, or January leagues. It’s also a good chance to address any existing dental concerns before the busy new year begins.

What to Do If Your Child Breaks a Tooth This Season

If an accident does happen:

1. Stay calm—kids take cues from you.

2. Locate the broken piece if possible.

3. Rinse the mouth gently with warm water.

4. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

5. Call Sedona Molar Kids immediately for urgent care.

Time matters with dental injuries, so quick action helps ensure the best outcome.

Keep Your Child’s Smile Safe All Winter Long

Winter sports in Sedona are an amazing way for kids to stay active and build confidence—but protecting their teeth is essential. A well-fitted mouthguard is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent broken teeth and keep your child’s smile healthy all season.

For personalized mouthguard options or winter dental care, families can trust the team at Sedona Molar Kids for compassionate, expert kids dentistry in Sedona, AZ.