Athletic Mouthguards: Protecting Your Child's Smile During Sports

Sports and physical activities are great for children’s physical and mental well-being, but they also come with a risk of injury—especially to their teeth and jaw. A stray ball, an accidental elbow, or a hard fall can lead to severe dental trauma. The good news? A well-fitted athletic mouthguard can significantly reduce the risk of broken teeth, jaw fractures, and soft tissue injuries.

At Chapin Pediatric & Teen Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of protecting your child’s smile with high-quality, custom-fitted mouthguards designed for maximum safety and comfort.

Why Are Athletic Mouthguards Important?

Athletic mouthguards act as a cushion for the teeth, gums, and jaw, absorbing and redistributing the force from direct impacts. Young athletes engaged in contact sports like football, basketball, hockey, and wrestling, as well as high-risk recreational activities like skateboarding, gymnastics, and martial arts, should wear a mouthguard to minimize injury risks.

Common Dental Injuries Prevented by Mouthguards

Without proper protection, children face a higher risk of experiencing the following dental injuries:

• Chipped or Broken Teeth – A direct impact can cause fractures, leading to pain and costly restorative treatments.
• Knocked-Out Teeth – A strong blow may completely dislodge a tooth, requiring emergency dental care.
• Soft Tissue Injuries – Biting the tongue, lips, or inner cheeks can lead to severe cuts and bleeding.
• Jaw Injuries – Sudden force can lead to jaw fractures or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.
• Concussions – Mouthguards absorb shock, reducing the risk of head injuries by stabilizing the lower jaw.

A well-fitted mouthguard significantly reduces these risks, ensuring that children can play their favorite sports safely.

Types of Athletic Mouthguards

There are three primary types of mouthguards available for young athletes, but not all provide the same level of comfort and protection.

1. Stock Mouthguards

These are pre-made, one-size-fits-all mouthguards available at most sporting goods stores. While inexpensive, they tend to be bulky and uncomfortable, making it difficult for children to breathe or speak properly. Since they don’t conform to the child's unique dental structure, they offer limited protection.

2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Made from a thermoplastic material, these mouthguards are softened in hot water and then shaped around the teeth by biting down. They offer a better fit than stock mouthguards but may still be uncomfortable and not provide adequate coverage for growing teeth.

3. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards

Custom-fitted mouthguards, designed by a pediatric dentist, provide the best level of protection, comfort, and durability. At Chapin Pediatric & Teen Dentistry, we take precise impressions of your child’s teeth and create a mouthguard tailored to their bite, ensuring a snug and secure fit.

Advantages of Custom-Fitted Mouthguards

• Perfect Fit: Tailored to your child’s dental structure, ensuring optimal comfort and protection.
• Easier Breathing & Speaking: Less bulky than over-the-counter options, allowing your child to speak and breathe normally.
• Maximum Protection: Designed to provide superior shock absorption and prevent injuries more effectively than store-bought options.
• Durable & Long-Lasting: Made from high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear.

How Chapin Pediatric & Teen Dentistry Creates Custom Mouthguards

At Chapin Pediatric & Teen Dentistry, we follow a meticulous process to craft the perfect mouthguard for your child:

1. Initial Consultation: We examine your child’s teeth, checking for any misalignments or orthodontic appliances that need to be accommodated.
2. Dental Impression: We take a precise mold of your child’s teeth to ensure a perfect fit.
3. Customization: Using high-quality, shock-absorbing material, we craft a durable and comfortable mouthguard.
4. Fitting & Adjustments: We ensure the mouthguard fits properly and make any necessary adjustments for comfort.
5. Care Instructions: We educate parents and children on how to maintain the mouthguard for long-term use.

How to Take Care of a Mouthguard

To ensure longevity and hygiene, proper care of the mouthguard is essential:

• Rinse after each use with cold water or mouthwash to remove debris.
• Brush regularly with a soft toothbrush and mild soap (avoid toothpaste, as it can be abrasive).
• Store in a ventilated case to prevent bacterial growth and deformation.
• Keep away from heat (hot water, direct sunlight, or car dashboards) to maintain its shape.
• Check for wear and tear regularly and replace it when necessary.

When Should You Replace a Mouthguard?

Mouthguards should be replaced if:

• They become worn out or develop cracks.
• They no longer fit properly due to your child’s growing teeth.
• They show signs of bacterial buildup despite regular cleaning.

On average, most children need a new mouthguard every 6 to 12 months, especially during growth spurts.

Why Choose Chapin Pediatric & Teen Dentistry for Your Child’s Mouthguard?

At Chapin Pediatric & Teen Dentistry, we are committed to ensuring that your child enjoys sports safely without the risk of dental injuries. Our custom-fitted mouthguards provide the best protection, comfort, and durability, giving parents peace of mind while their children play with confidence.

Book an Appointment Today!

Don’t wait for a dental emergency—be proactive in protecting your child’s smile! Schedule a consultation at Chapin Pediatric & Teen Dentistry today to get a high-quality, custom-fitted athletic mouthguard. Your child’s dental health is worth the investment in safety and comfort.

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