Children’s Mouthguards: Types, Benefits, and How to Choose One

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
   
2. What Are Children’s Mouthguards?
   
3. Types of Children’s Mouthguards
   
   • Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
     
   • Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
     
   • Stock Mouthguards
     
4. Benefits of Children’s Mouthguards
   
5. How to Choose the Best Children’s Mouthguard
   
6. Caring for Your Child’s Mouthguard
   
7. Conclusion
   

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Introduction

When it comes to protecting your child’s smile, children’s mouthguards are essential, especially for sports enthusiasts. Whether your child plays rugby, basketball, or rides a bike, a properly fitted mouthguard reduces the risk of dental injuries. In this guide, we’ll explore the types, benefits, and tips for choosing the best children’s mouthguards to keep your child safe and comfortable.

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What Are Children’s Mouthguards?

A children’s mouthguard is a protective dental device worn over the teeth to minimise the impact of blows to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth, cut lips, and jaw injuries. They are commonly used in contact sports such as rugby, football, and hockey, but they are also valuable for activities with a risk of falls or collisions, like skateboarding or cycling.

According to the Australian Dental Association (ADA), wearing a mouthguard can prevent around 60% of dental injuries during sports, making them a vital safety measure for young athletes.

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Types of Children’s Mouthguards

There are three main types of children’s mouthguards, each offering different levels of protection, comfort, and cost-effectiveness.

1. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards

Custom-fitted mouthguards are individually designed by a dentist to fit your child’s teeth perfectly. They offer the best protection and comfort due to their precise fit.

Benefits:

• Superior protection against dental trauma.
  
• Comfortable fit, making them easier to wear for extended periods.
  
• Enhanced durability, lasting longer than store-bought options.
  

Drawbacks:

• Higher cost compared to off-the-shelf options.
  
• Requires a dental appointment for fitting.
  

Best for: Children participating in high-impact sports, such as rugby, martial arts, or hockey.

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2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Boil-and-bite mouthguards are available at most sports stores. They are made from thermoplastic material that softens in hot water, allowing you to mould it to your child’s teeth.

Benefits:

• Better fit than stock mouthguards.
  
• Affordable and widely available.
  
• Easy to mould at home.
  

Drawbacks:

• Less durable than custom-fitted mouthguards.
  
• May not offer sufficient protection for high-contact sports.
  

Best for: Occasional sports activities or moderate-impact sports like basketball or soccer.

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3. Stock Mouthguards

Stock mouthguards are pre-formed and ready to wear. They are the least expensive option but offer the lowest level of protection.

Benefits:

• Inexpensive and easily accessible.
  
• No moulding required.
  

Drawbacks:

• Poor fit, making them uncomfortable.
  
• Minimal protection against impact.
  
• Can hinder breathing and speech.
  

Best for: Short-term or emergency use only.

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Benefits of Children’s Mouthguards

Wearing a properly fitted children’s mouthguard provides several key benefits, including:

1. Protects Against Dental Injuries

Mouthguards act as a shock absorber, reducing the force of impact during contact sports. They help prevent:

• Chipped or broken teeth.
  
• Lip and tongue injuries.
  
• Jaw fractures.
  

2. Reduces the Risk of Concussions

Research suggests that mouthguards may reduce the severity of concussions by cushioning the jaw and absorbing some of the impact force.

3. Preserves Orthodontic Work

For children with braces, a mouthguard protects the brackets, wires, and teeth from damage during sports activities.

4. Improves Confidence During Sports

Knowing they have adequate protection allows children to play with more confidence and less fear of dental injury.

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How to Choose the Best Children’s Mouthguard

When selecting a children’s mouthguard, consider the following factors:

1. Fit and Comfort

A mouthguard should fit snugly over the teeth without slipping. Custom-fitted mouthguards provide the best fit, offering superior comfort and protection.

2. Thickness and Protection Level

For high-contact sports, choose a thicker mouthguard with enhanced cushioning. For lower-impact activities, a boil-and-bite model may suffice.

3. Material Quality

Look for durable, BPA-free materials to ensure safety and longevity. Custom mouthguards from dental clinics often use medical-grade materials.

4. Compliance with Australian Standards

Choose mouthguards that meet the Australian Dental Association (ADA) guidelines, ensuring they offer optimal protection.

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Caring for Your Child’s Mouthguard

To extend the lifespan of your child’s mouthguard and ensure optimal protection:

• Rinse after each use: Use cold water to remove debris.
  
• Clean regularly: Use a toothbrush and mild soap to clean the mouthguard.
  
• Store properly: Keep it in a ventilated container to prevent bacterial growth.
  
• Check for wear and tear: Replace the mouthguard if it becomes loose or damaged.
  

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Conclusion

Investing in a quality children’s mouthguard is essential for protecting your child’s smile during sports and physical activities. While custom-fitted mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort, boil-and-bite models are a budget-friendly alternative for moderate-impact sports.

At Kingsway Dental, we offer professional custom-fitted mouthguards tailored to your child’s needs. Protect their smile with a mouthguard designed for safety and comfort. Book an appointment today to get started.