When kids are active in sports, bumps and falls are part of the game. But while scrapes and bruises heal quickly, dental injuries can last a lifetime. That’s why kids mouthguards are one of the most important pieces of sports dental protection. They keep young athletes safe, comfortable, and confident on the field.
Kids Mouthguards Explained | Why Every Young Athlete Needs One
A mouthguard is a soft but durable shield worn over the teeth during sports. It cushions the impact from collisions, falls, or flying balls. Without a mouthguard, even a small hit can lead to chipped teeth, broken braces, or jaw injuries. As Dr. Michael Rouhi shares:
“We see far too many children with preventable dental injuries. A simple mouthguard can make all the difference in protecting their smile.”
Sports Dental Protection for Kids | How Mouthguards Prevent Injuries
Mouthguards act like a helmet for the teeth and jaw. They reduce the risk of:
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Cut lips, cheeks, and tongue
- Knocked-out teeth
- Jaw injuries
Dr. Sandra Farber explains:
“Parents often think only contact sports like hockey or football need mouthguards, but even activities like basketball or gymnastics carry risks. If your child is active, a mouthguard should be part of their gear.”
Custom Mouthguards for Children | Safer and More Comfortable Fit
Not all mouthguards are the same. Options include:
- Store-bought mouthguards – affordable but often bulky and less protective.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards – moldable at home for a better fit.
- Custom mouthguards from a dentist – professionally fitted for maximum comfort and safety.
Custom mouthguards are recommended for kids who play regularly because they stay in place, allow easy breathing, and provide stronger protection.
Do Kids Really Need Mouthguards for Sports? | Dentist-Approved Guide
Yes. Whether your child plays soccer, hockey, football, basketball, or even skateboarding, mouthguards are a must. They don’t just protect teeth—they can prevent costly emergency visits. Many sports leagues now require them, but even if not mandatory, dentists strongly encourage their use.
Protecting Your Child’s Teeth | Benefits of Sports Mouthguards
Benefits of kids mouthguards include:
- Lower dental injury risk
- More confidence during play
- Fewer emergency dental visits
- Protection for kids with braces or dental work
Dental Injury Prevention for Kids | Why Mouthguards Are Essential
A single dental injury can mean years of treatment and expenses. A properly fitted mouthguard is a small investment compared to the cost of fixing a knocked-out tooth. As Dr. Rouhi emphasizes:
“Preventive care is always easier and more affordable than treatment after an accident. A mouthguard is one of the simplest ways to safeguard your child’s oral health.”
Mouthguards for Young Athletes | Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know
- Replace mouthguards if they become worn, loose, or damaged
- Clean them after each use with cool water and mild soap
- Store them in a ventilated case
- Bring them to dental checkups to ensure the fit is still correct
Kids Sports Safety | Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Your Child
When choosing a mouthguard, consider:
- Comfort – your child should be able to talk and breathe easily
- Durability – it should withstand chewing and impact
- Fit – it should not slip or feel bulky
Custom dentist-fitted mouthguards for kids are usually the best choice for long-term safety and comfort.
Pediatric Dental Protection | How Mouthguards Keep Kids Smiling
At Woodbridge Dental Centre, protecting children’s oral health is a priority. With custom kids mouthguards, parents can feel confident knowing their child’s smile is safe during sports.
If you’re searching for pediatric dental mouthguards near me in Woodbridge, Maple, or Vaughan, the team at Woodbridge Dental Centre is here to help. From dentist-fitted mouthguards for young athletes to advice on dental injury prevention, we provide complete care to keep your child’s smile healthy and protected.
Book an appointment today to get your child fitted for a custom sports mouthguard and give them the best protection on and off the field.
Additional Resources:
