Children's Dentistry›Children's Mouthguards
Children's
Mouthguards
At a Glance
Custom recommended
Fit Type
2 appointments
Visits
All contact sports
Suitable For
Children & teens
Ages
Sports-related dental injuries are among the most common — and most preventable — childhood dental problems. A custom-fitted mouthguard absorbs and distributes the forces of impact that could otherwise fracture teeth, injure soft tissue, or contribute to jaw injuries. No store-bought guard comes close to the protection a custom-made one provides.
Why Mouthguards Matter
Dental injuries account for a significant portion of sports-related injuries in children and teens. A single impact can fracture or knock out a tooth — a problem that is both painful and expensive to address, and that can have lifelong consequences for oral health.
The good news is that dental injuries from sports are almost entirely preventable with the right protection. A well-fitted mouthguard is the most effective tool available.
- Dental injuries are among the most common sports injuries in children
- A knocked-out permanent tooth requires immediate treatment and may not be fully salvageable
- Mouthguards significantly reduce the risk of fractures, knocked-out teeth, and lip/cheek lacerations
- Recommended for any sport with risk of contact, falls, or flying objects
The American Dental Association estimates that athletes who play without mouthguards are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injury than those who use one.
Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouthguards
Over-the-counter mouthguards come in boil-and-bite or one-size-fits-all versions that rarely fit well. Poorly fitting guards are uncomfortable, interfere with breathing and communication, and are often removed during play — leaving the child unprotected.
A custom-made mouthguard is fabricated from precise impressions of your child's teeth, creating a fit that is comfortable, secure, and provides significantly better shock absorption and protection.
- Custom guards fit precisely — no slipping or discomfort
- Better shock absorption than generic alternatives
- More comfortable to wear — children actually keep them in
- Easier to breathe and talk with during play
- Available in fun colours to encourage consistent use
The Fitting Process
Getting a custom mouthguard is straightforward and quick. It requires two short appointments.
- First appointment — impressions of your child's teeth are taken (quick and comfortable)
- The guard is custom-fabricated in a dental laboratory to an exact fit
- Second appointment — the finished guard is fitted, checked, and adjusted if needed
- We provide care instructions and discuss when to wear it
Caring for the Mouthguard
With proper care, a custom mouthguard will last a season or more. As children grow, it may need to be replaced to maintain a proper fit.
- Rinse with water before and after every use
- Clean with a toothbrush and mild soap — avoid hot water
- Store in the provided ventilated case to prevent bacterial buildup
- Bring it to dental appointments so we can check the fit
- Replace when worn, damaged, or when your child has significant tooth eruption or growth
Common
Questions
Which sports require a mouthguard?
Any sport with potential for contact or falls should include a mouthguard. This includes hockey, basketball, football, soccer, martial arts, gymnastics, skateboarding, rugby, and more. Even non-contact sports like cycling or gymnastics carry fall risk.
At what age should my child start wearing a mouthguard?
As soon as they begin participating in sports where there is any risk of contact or falls. There is no minimum age — we can fit mouthguards for children as young as 5 or 6 who are starting team sports.
How often does the mouthguard need to be replaced?
It depends on how much your child grows and how heavily the guard is used. Children who are growing quickly may need a new guard each season. We check the fit at regular dental appointments and advise you when a replacement is warranted.
Can a mouthguard be worn over braces?
Yes — in fact, it's especially important to wear a mouthguard during orthodontic treatment. We can fabricate a special guard designed to fit over braces and protect both the teeth and the orthodontic appliances.
Ready to
Get Started?
Book your appointment at Keheewin Family Dental today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
