Mouthguards for Sports: Shield your Child’s Teeth

As a parent, there’s nothing more thrilling than watching your child step onto the field, court, or rink—confident, focused, and ready to play. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, football, or skateboarding, sports help kids stay active, learn teamwork, and build confidence. But as much as we love to cheer from the sidelines, we also worry about the injuries that can come with high-energy activities—especially when it comes to protecting that bright, growing smile.

Dental injuries are more common in youth sports than many people realize. Cracked, broken, or even knocked-out teeth can be painful and traumatic—not to mention expensive to treat. The great news? These injuries are largely preventable. With the right protective gear and a little planning, you can help keep your child’s teeth safe all season long.

Mouthguards: Your Child’s Best Defense on the Field

Mouthguards are the MVP when it comes to preventing dental injuries in sports. They act like shock absorbers for your child’s teeth, cushioning any direct blows to the face and minimizing the risk of serious oral injuries.

According to the American Dental Association, athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to suffer dental damage. That’s a staggering number—and a strong reason to make mouthguards a must-have in your child’s sports bag.

Besides protecting teeth, mouthguards also help safeguard the lips, cheeks, tongue, and even the jaw from injury. Whether your child is just starting out in tee-ball or competing in travel hockey, a mouthguard should be considered essential equipment.

How to Choose the Best Mouthguards for Kids

Not all mouthguards are created equal. The best mouthguard for your child will depend on their age, the sport they play, and their unique dental needs.

Here’s a breakdown of the three main types:

Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-made and ready to wear right out of the package. While they’re easy to find at sporting goods stores, they tend to be bulky and often don’t fit very well. This can make them uncomfortable—and if a mouthguard isn’t comfortable, your child is less likely to wear it.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: These are a step up from stock options. They’re made of a soft material that becomes pliable when heated in water. Your child bites into it to create a semi-custom fit. These are widely used and affordable, offering better comfort and protection than stock versions.
Custom-Fit Mouthguards: Made by your family dentist, these are molded specifically to your child’s teeth. They offer the best protection, comfort, and durability, and are especially recommended as mouthguards for kids who wear braces or have unique dental needs.

At Malan Family Dentistry, we recommend custom-fit mouthguards as the most effective and reliable option—especially for kids who play contact sports or have a history of dental injuries.

Family-Focused Tips to Keep Kids Safe

Protecting your child’s smile doesn’t stop at buying a mouthguard. Here are a few key habits every parent can encourage:

Prioritize Regular Check-Ups
Schedule dental visits every six months to ensure your child’s oral health is on track. During these visits, your dentist can examine the fit of their mouthguard and make adjustments if needed.
Educate on Consistent Use
Teach your child to wear their mouthguard during practices—not just games. Injuries are just as likely to happen during a scrimmage or warm-up.
Clean and Store Properly
Rinse the mouthguard after each use and brush it regularly with toothpaste. Store it in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria buildup.
Watch for Wear and Tear
Children grow fast, and so do their mouths. If a mouthguard becomes too tight, too loose, or starts to crack, it’s time for a replacement.
Talk to Your Dentist About Special Needs
Children with braces or orthodontic appliances require specially designed mouthguards. We can help ensure your child’s gear works with their smile—not against it.

What If a Dental Injury Happens?

Even with the best protection, accidents can still occur. Thankfully, cosmetic dentistry offers a variety of solutions to repair and restore your child’s smile with natural-looking results.

Here are a few options:

Dental Bonding: Great for chipped or cracked teeth, bonding uses a tooth-colored resin to rebuild and reshape the damaged area.
Crowns: These protective caps are used for more significant tooth damage, restoring function and appearance.
Veneers: For older teens, veneers can provide a beautiful, long-term solution for front teeth that are chipped or uneven.

These treatments are always optional, and at Malan Family Dentistry, we make sure that any cosmetic care supports your child’s confidence and overall well-being.

FAQ: What Parents Often Ask About Mouthguards

Q: When should my child start wearing a mouthguard?
A: As soon as your child begins playing sports where contact or falls are possible. This can be as early as age 6 or 7.

Q: How often should a mouthguard be replaced?
A: At least once per season, or sooner if it shows signs of damage, discomfort, or poor fit.

Q: Can my child use a mouthguard with braces?
A: Absolutely. We recommend a custom-fit option designed specifically for children with orthodontic appliances.

Q: How do I clean my child’s mouthguard?
A: Rinse it in cool water after each use, brush it weekly with toothpaste, and soak it occasionally in mouthwash or a denture-cleaning solution.

Ready to Safeguard Your Child’s Smile?

Every winning season starts with smart protection. At Malan Family Dentistry, we care about your child’s health both on and off the field. Our team is here to answer your questions, offer personalized advice, and provide high-quality custom mouthguards for kids that fit comfortably and protect effectively.

Don’t wait for an injury to happen—schedule an appointment with us today to get your child game-day ready and smile-safe.

Additional Resources

How to Encourage Your Child to Brush and Floss

The Essential Guide to Brushing and Flossing