Ensuring the safety of children during sports and recreational activities is paramount. One critical yet often overlooked protective measure is the use of mouthguards. These oral health devices play a vital role in safeguarding young athletes from dental and oral injuries, providing necessary protection against impacts that could result in serious harm. (Source: Healthchildren.org, Mouthguards: Information for Parents, Last Updated September 13, 2013, Adapted from MouthHealthy.org (Copyright © 2013 American Dental Association),
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/oral health/Pages/Mouthguards.aspx ).
The Benefits of Mouthguards
Mouthguards, or mouth protectors, are developed to cushion blows to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth, soft tissue injuries, and jaw trauma. They are primarily worn over the upper teeth and serve as a protective barrier that minimizes damage from falls, collisions, or direct impacts during sports. It is understood that athletes who do not wear mouthguards are more likely to experience dental injuries than those who do.
Toronto Kids Dental highlights the importance of mouthguards as a vital component of injury prevention in children’s sports. “Many parents focus on helmets and pads, but the mouth is just as vulnerable during high-impact activities. A single dental injury can have lifelong consequences, including extensive restorative treatments, nerve damage, and even permanent tooth loss. Mouthguards are a simple yet powerful tool in ensuring that children can participate in sports safely while protecting their growing smiles.”
Types of Mouthguards and Their Effectiveness
There are three main types of mouthguards available, each providing different levels of protection, comfort, and affordability.
- Custom-Fitted Mouthguards – These are professionally designed by a dentist or a dental lab using an impression of the child’s teeth. They offer the most suitable fit, comfort, and protection, but they are also the most expensive option.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards – Available at sporting goods stores, this style of mouthguard is softened in boiling water and then shaped to the teeth. They offer better fit and protection than stock mouthguards but may not provide the same level of durability as custom-made options.
- Stock Mouthguards – These pre-formed, ready-to-wear options are the least expensive, but they may fit poorly, which can reduce their effectiveness in protecting against injuries.
Toronto Kids Dental shares, “When selecting a mouthguard, comfort, and fit should be top priorities. A poorly fitting mouthguard can discourage children from wearing it consistently, reducing its protective benefits. While custom-fitted mouthguards are the best option for superior protection, boil-and-bite mouthguards can serve as a suitable alternative when properly molded. Stock mouthguards, however, often fail to provide adequate security and can even pose a choking hazard if they do not fit well. Parents should consult with a children’s dentist to ensure their child is getting the right level of protection based on their individual needs and the sport they play.”
Mouthguards for Children with Braces
For children undergoing orthodontic treatment, wearing a mouthguard is even more critical. A blow to the face can damage braces, causing cuts and irritation inside the mouth or even leading to costly repairs of orthodontic appliances. Specially designed orthodontic mouthguards accommodate braces while providing the necessary cushioning to protect both the teeth and the appliance.
Toronto Kids Dental comments, “Children with braces require specially designed mouthguards that not only shield their teeth but also prevent injuries from metal brackets and wires. Orthodontic mouthguards are crafted to provide ample space for braces, ensuring that the device remains effective even as teeth shift during treatment. Parents should never assume that a standard mouthguard will suffice for a child with braces—investing in the right type of protection can prevent painful injuries and orthodontic setbacks.”
Choosing the Right Mouthguard for Your Child
Selecting the appropriate mouthguard depends on several factors, including the child’s age, the sport they play, and whether they wear braces. A well-fitted mouthguard should be durable, easy to clean, and comfortable enough to encourage consistent use.
Toronto Kids Dental shares, “When shopping for a mouthguard, parents should consider durability, ease of maintenance, and proper fit. A mouthguard that is too loose or too bulky can cause discomfort, leading to reluctance to wear it. Additionally, children may have different needs depending on their sport—high-contact sports like football and hockey demand a sturdier mouthguard compared to low-impact activities like gymnastics or cycling. Consulting a children’s dentist ensures parents make informed decisions tailored to their child’s unique oral care needs.”
Mouthguard Maintenance and Hygiene
Proper maintenance of a mouthguard is essential to extend its lifespan and ensure hygiene. Mouthguards should be rinsed before and after use, regularly cleaned with a toothbrush and mild soap, and stored in a ventilated case when not in use. Parents should also check the mouthguard frequently for signs of wear, replacing it when it becomes too thin or damaged.
Toronto Kids Dental advises, “Mouthguards, like any other protective gear, need regular care and replacement to remain effective. A worn-out or ill-fitting mouthguard can compromise safety and lead to bacterial buildup, increasing the risk of oral infections. Encouraging children to clean their mouthguard after each use and store it properly will help maintain its protective function while ensuring their oral health is not at risk.”
The Role of Mouthguards in Long-Term Oral Health
Beyond immediate protection, mouthguards contribute to long-term oral health by preventing issues like fractured teeth, concussions from jaw impact, and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders caused by jaw trauma.
Toronto Kids Dental emphasizes, “The benefits of mouthguards extend far beyond preventing sports-related injuries. They help safeguard a child’s overall oral health, preventing conditions that could lead to complex dental treatments in the future. Even minor dental trauma can result in long-term issues that affect speech, chewing, and self-confidence. Prioritizing preventive measures like mouthguards is a proactive approach to maintaining healthy smiles well into adulthood.”
As parents and caregivers encourage their children to participate in sports and recreational activities, oral protection should not be overlooked. A properly fitted mouthguard is an essential component of kids’ oral care, reducing the risk of dental trauma while allowing children to enjoy their favorite activities safely.
Toronto Kids Dental urges parents to prioritize dental safety in sports, “Just as a helmet is essential in biking or football, a mouthguard should be considered a non-negotiable piece of sports equipment. By taking preventive measures today, parents can ensure their children grow up with strong, protected, healthy smiles.”
