Protect Your Child’s Smile with Custom Sports Mouthguards
For children involved in sports or recreational activities that pose a risk of injury, wearing a mouthguard—also known as a sports guard or athletic mouth protector—is essential. These devices fit over the upper teeth, safeguarding the entire mouth and helping to maintain both the health and appearance of a child’s smile. Mouthguards can also benefit children who grind their teeth at night by preventing wear and damage.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) strongly advises using mouthguards during any sport or physical activity with potential for oral injury. Many affordable options are available for under ten dollars, making them a smart and cost-effective choice for parents.
Why Are Mouthguards Important?
Most sports organizations now mandate mouthguards due to their proven protective benefits. In addition to shielding the teeth, mouthguards reduce the force of jaw impacts, lowering the risk of traumatic brain injuries—an especially important consideration for young athletes. Mouthguards also help prevent:
- Tooth fractures
- Jawbone fractures
- Concussions
- Gum and soft tissue injuries
- Cheek and lip lesions
- Tongue injuries
- Neck injuries
Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Your Child
Mouthguards generally fall into three categories: stock, boil-and-bite, and custom-made. When selecting the right type, consider factors such as your budget, the frequency of your child’s sports activities, and the specific sport involved (basketball and baseball, for instance, commonly lead to oral injuries).
Here’s a breakdown of each type:
- Stock Mouthguards: Pre-formed and ready to use, these are widely available and inexpensive. However, their one-size-fits-all design offers limited protection and often feels bulky or uncomfortable. They can hinder breathing and speaking and are not typically recommended by pediatric dentists.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: Made from thermoplastic material, these become moldable after being softened in hot water. They provide a better fit and more comfort than stock versions, with improved protection and easier breathing and speech.
- Custom-Fit Mouthguards: Created by a dentist using an impression of your child’s teeth, these offer the highest level of protection and comfort. Though more expensive and time-consuming to produce, they are dentist-approved for their superior fit, especially for children with orthodontic appliances.
If you're unsure about which mouthguard is best for your child, our dental team is here to help. Contact our office with any questions or for guidance on choosing the ideal option for your young athlete.
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