Children are naturally active. Whether they are playing organised sports, riding bikes, or participating in school competitions, physical activities are an important part of growing up. However, these activities can also increase the risk of injuries, including dental injuries.

For many young athletes, custom mouthguards are recommended to help protect their teeth and mouth during sports and other high-impact activities. So, when are over-the-counter and custom mouthguards appropriate for your children?

Understanding when they may need a mouthguard and why custom options are often preferred can help you make informed decisions about your child’s dental safety.

Let’s take a look.

Why Mouthguards Are Important for Children

Dental injuries are relatively common in children who play contact or collision sports. These injuries can include chipped teeth, fractured teeth, soft tissue injuries, and even tooth loss.

Protective mouthguards were shown to help in preventing dental injuries in children’s sports. By acting as a cushioning barrier, mouthguards help absorb and distribute the impact of blows to the face or jaw.

A well-fitted mouthguard helps protect:

• Teeth
• Gums
• Lips and cheeks
• Jaw joints
• Dental restorations or orthodontic appliances

What Is a Custom Mouthguard?

A custom dental mouthguard is a protective appliance made specifically to fit a person’s teeth. Unlike store-bought mouthguards, which come in standard sizes, custom mouthguards are designed using dental impressions of the patient’s mouth.

Dentist-made mouthguards are typically created in a dental laboratory to ensure a precise fit and optimal comfort.

Features of Custom Mouthguards

Custom mouthguards are designed to provide:

• A precise fit for your child’s teeth
• Greater comfort when worn during sports
• Improved stability and protection
• Better airflow and ability to speak

Because the mouthguard fits closely to the teeth, children may find it easier to wear consistently during activities.

When Are Custom Mouthguards Recommended for Kids?

Dentists often recommend custom mouthguards for children who participate in sports where contact, falls, or collisions may occur.

1. Participation in Contact Sports

Children who participate in junior contact sports may benefit from wearing a mouthguard.

Examples include:

• Football
• Rugby
• Basketball
• Hockey
• Martial arts

These sports carry a higher risk of facial contact or accidental impact, which may lead to dental injuries.

2. School Sports and Physical Activities

Many schools encourage protective gear during physical activities. A school sports safety mouthguard can help protect children during activities such as:

• Netball
• Soccer
• Skateboarding
• Gymnastics
• Cycling

Even sports that are not traditionally considered high-contact can still involve falls or accidental collisions.

3. Children with Braces

Even children undergoing orthodontic treatment may also require specialised mouthguards.

Mouthguards for kids with braces are designed to provide space for brackets and wires while still protecting the teeth and soft tissues from injury.

Without protection, a blow to the mouth can cause brackets to cut the lips or cheeks and may damage orthodontic appliances.

4. Children Who Grind Their Teeth

In some cases, children may grind their teeth during sleep, a condition known as bruxism. While sports mouthguards are designed for physical protection, dentists may recommend other protective dental appliances if grinding is causing tooth wear or jaw discomfort.

Your dentist can determine which type of mouthguard may be suitable depending on the child’s needs.

Difference Between Custom vs Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Parents may notice that sports stores also sell “boil-and-bite” mouthguards that can be shaped at home. While these options may appear more convenient, they often do not provide the same level of fit and protection as dentist-made mouthguards. 

Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

These mouthguards are softened in hot water and then shaped to the teeth by biting down on the material.

However, they may have limitations such as:

• Bulkier design
• Less precise fit
• Difficulty breathing or speaking
• Reduced durability

Custom Dental Mouthguards

Custom mouthguards created by a dentist are designed specifically for the child’s mouth.

Benefits may include:

• May offer better comfort
• Improved protection
• Secure fit during sports
• Longer lifespan with proper care

Because children are still growing, dentists may recommend replacing mouthguards periodically to ensure they continue to fit properly.

Choosing the Best Custom Mouthguard for Your Child

If your child participates in sports, speaking with a dentist about a custom mouthguard for kids may be worthwhile to ensure they are comfortable, confident and protected when in the game.

During a dental visit, the dentist may:

• Assess your child’s teeth and jaw
• Take impressions to create a custom-fit mouthguard
• Ensure the appliance fits properly and comfortably
• Provide guidance on mouthguard care and replacement

Custom mouthguards are designed to fit comfortably and stay securely in place, helping children focus on their activities without distraction.

Supporting Healthy Smiles for Active Kids

Sports and physical activity provide many benefits for children, from improving fitness to building confidence and teamwork skills. However, protecting your child’s teeth during these activities is also important.

A custom dental mouthguard offers a reliable way to reduce the risk of dental injuries during sports and other high-impact activities. If your child participates in contact sports or school athletics in Brentwood, WA, speaking with a dentist at Blue Gum Dental about a custom mouthguard can help support both their safety and long-term oral health.

Set a consultation with our team today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do kids need mouthguards for sports?

Children may need mouthguards during sports to help protect their teeth, gums, and jaw from injury. Mouthguards absorb and distribute the force of impact during collisions or falls, which can help reduce the risk of chipped or knocked-out teeth.

What is a custom mouthguard for kids?

A custom mouthguard is a protective dental appliance made specifically to fit a child’s teeth. It is created using dental impressions taken by a dentist, allowing the mouthguard to fit securely and comfortably during sports activities.

Are custom mouthguards better than boil-and-bite mouthguards?

Custom mouthguards are designed specifically for the child’s mouth, which may provide better comfort, stability, and protection. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are shaped at home and may not fit as accurately, which can affect comfort and protection.

What sports require kids to wear mouthguards?

Dentists often recommend mouthguards for sports where contact or falls may occur. These can include football, rugby, basketball, hockey, martial arts, netball, soccer, skateboarding, and other school sports activities.

Can kids wear mouthguards if they have braces?

Yes, children with braces can wear specially designed mouthguards. These mouthguards provide additional space for orthodontic brackets and wires while helping protect the teeth, lips, and cheeks during sports.

How often should a child’s mouthguard be replaced?

Because children’s teeth and jaws continue to grow, mouthguards may need to be replaced periodically to ensure they continue to fit properly. Your dentist can advise when a new mouthguard may be needed.

Should I talk to a dentist about a custom mouthguard for my child?

If your child participates in contact sports or school athletics, a dentist can assess their teeth and recommend a custom mouthguard that fits properly and provides appropriate protection during activity.