Sports Mouthguards for Kids: Protection Your Child's Smile Needs

If your child plays sports, a mouthguard is not optional equipment -- it is essential. Dental injuries are one of the most common sports injuries in children, and a properly fitted mouthguard can prevent knocked-out teeth, fractured jaws, and cut lips.

Which sports need a mouthguard?

Contact sports like cricket, football, basketball, kabaddi, and martial arts carry the highest risk. But any activity where a fall or collision is possible -- cycling, skating, gymnastics, even playground play -- can lead to a dental injury. The American Dental Association recommends mouthguards for 29 different sports.

Custom vs. store-bought mouthguards

Store-bought boil-and-bite mouthguards offer some protection but fit poorly and can interfere with breathing and speaking. Custom mouthguards, made from impressions of your child's teeth, provide superior fit, comfort, and protection. Kids are more likely to actually wear a mouthguard that fits well and feels comfortable.

Getting a custom mouthguard at ToothMatters Jr.

The process is quick and painless. We take an impression of your child's teeth and create a custom-fitted mouthguard in your child's favorite color. We check the fit at a follow-up visit and make adjustments as needed. As your child grows, we can make updated mouthguards to maintain proper fit.