Children love sports, but falls and collisions can damage teeth. Dental injuries are common in contact sports and activities such as football, basketball, martial arts, cycling and skating. A well-fitted mouthguard is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect children's teeth.
Mouthguards cushion blows to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth, injuries to the lips and cheeks, and damage to the jaw. They are especially important for children with braces or protruding front teeth.
Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and inexpensive but often fit poorly. Boil-and-bite mouthguards are softened in hot water and shaped to the teeth. Custom mouthguards are made by a dentist from a scan or impression, providing the best fit, comfort and protection.
Because children's teeth and jaws are growing, mouthguards may need to be replaced more often. Your dentist will check the fit at regular visits.
Children with braces need mouthguards designed to fit over brackets. Your dentist can recommend suitable options.
Children are more likely to wear mouthguards that are comfortable and fun. Let them choose colours or designs where possible.
Rinse the mouthguard after use, clean it gently with a toothbrush and cool water, and store it in a ventilated case. Keep it out of hot cars.
If a tooth is chipped or knocked out, seek dental care immediately. Keep any broken pieces or the knocked-out tooth in milk.
Mouthguards are strongly recommended for contact sports such as football, rugby, basketball, hockey, boxing, martial arts and wrestling. They are also useful for activities with a risk of falls, such as cycling, skateboarding, scootering, rollerblading and horse riding. Even non-contact sports like padel or cricket can involve stray balls and accidental collisions. If you are unsure whether your child's sport requires a mouthguard, ask their coach or dentist.
Children are much more likely to wear a mouthguard when it is simply part of the routine, like wearing shin pads or a helmet. Ask coaches to remind players at every practice and match, and encourage teammates to wear them together. Parents can set an example by wearing mouthguards in their own sports. When everyone on the team wears one, children are less likely to feel self-conscious and more likely to keep it in during play.
Treating a broken or knocked-out tooth can involve emergency care, root canal treatment, crowns, implants later in life and years of monitoring. These treatments can be costly and time-consuming. In comparison, a mouthguard is a small investment that can prevent many injuries. Protecting a child's permanent front teeth, which need to last a lifetime, is one of the best reasons to make mouthguards part of their sports kit.
Yes. Mouthguards reduce the risk of dental injuries in contact sports.
Yes. They offer better fit, comfort and protection.
When it no longer fits well or shows wear, often every season for growing children.
Ask about a custom mouthguard for your child.
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