Cleats laced, jersey on, mouthguard in. For a lot of families, that last step is becoming as routine as the first two, and for good reason. A properly fitted mouthguard is one of the easiest ways to help protect a child’s smile while they get to enjoy everything sports have to offer.
At All Kids Pediatric Dentistry, parents ask us all the time which type of mouthguard is worth it, which sports actually need one, and how to keep a mouthguard from turning into another lost piece of gear by October. Here is what we tell them.
Why Mouthguards Matter for Young Athletes
Any sport that involves contact, falls, or fast-moving equipment carries some chance of a dental injury. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, sports-related injuries account for a meaningful share of the dental trauma seen in children, and a properly fitted mouthguard is one of the most effective ways to help reduce the frequency and severity of these injuries.
A mouthguard works by cushioning the teeth, lips, and gums from impact, and it may also help absorb some of the force that would otherwise be transmitted to the jaw. For families managing braces or other orthodontic appliances, a mouthguard adds another layer of protection for the appliance itself, not just the teeth.
Which Sports Call for a Mouthguard
Football, hockey, and lacrosse are the sports where mouthguards are most often required at the youth and high school level. Beyond these, many dental organizations also recommend mouthguards for a wider range of activities where falls or collisions are common.
Consider a mouthguard for your child if they participate in any of the following:
- Basketball and soccer: both involve frequent contact between players and elbows near the face.
- Baseball and softball: a fast-moving ball or bat can strike the mouth without warning.
- Gymnastics and cheerleading: falls are common even though these activities are considered non-contact.
- Skateboarding and biking: loss of balance can lead to a fall directly onto the face or chin.
If you are ever unsure whether your child’s sport calls for a mouthguard, our team is happy to talk through the specific risks involved and help you decide what makes sense for your family.
Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards
Parents often start with a stock or boil-and-bite mouthguard from a sporting goods store, and for some families, that is a reasonable first step. These options are typically less expensive and can be a good way to introduce a child to wearing a mouthguard.
A custom-fitted mouthguard, made from an impression of your child’s own teeth, tends to fit more securely and comfortably than a boil-and-bite option, which can make a child more likely to keep it in during play. Custom guards can also be designed to accommodate braces or other dental work as your child’s smile continues to develop. We can help you weigh the options and find a solution that fits your child’s sport, comfort, and budget through our dental savings plan for families who do not have dental insurance.
Caring for Your Child’s Mouthguard
A mouthguard only helps if it is worn consistently and kept in good condition. Rinse it with cool water before and after each use and clean it regularly with a mild soap rather than hot water, which can warp the material.
Store the mouthguard in a ventilated case rather than a sealed bag and keep it away from direct heat sources like a hot car dashboard. Bring it along to your child’s regular dental exams and cleanings so our team can check for wear and make sure it still fits as their teeth continue to grow and shift.
If an Injury Happens Anyway
If your child does experience a dental injury during play, whether or not they were wearing a mouthguard at the time, you will not have to navigate it alone. Our team is here to help with pediatric dental emergencies whenever you need us.
Keep Your Young Athlete Smiling with All Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Our six pediatric doctors have worked with young athletes across Charlotte, Plaza Midwood, Southwest Charlotte, and Indian Trail/Monroe, and we understand that every child’s smile and sport are a little different. Whether your child needs a first mouthguard fitting or a routine checkup between seasons, we are glad to help you find what works.
We welcome families through our online scheduling to book an appointment at any of our three locations, and we look forward to helping your young athlete play with confidence. All Kids. All Smiles.
