Reviewed by Dr Kathryn Stanley
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Reading Time: Three Minutes
A fall on the field during contact sports, a collision at practice, or teeth grinding at night can stress developing teeth more than you may realize. Custom-fitted mouthguards and night guards act as dependable mouth protectors that keep a child’s smile safe through action, rest, and everything in between.
Table of Contents
How Custom Sports Mouthguards Protect Kids
Sports introduce speed, force, and unpredictable contact which remain one of the leading causes of dental injuries in children. A child may collide with another player, fall awkwardly, or catch an elbow during a fast play. A well-fitted mouthguard cushions the impact and significantly reduces the risk of:
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Cuts to lips, cheeks, or gums
A custom mouthguard fits securely because they’re molded directly from the child’s bite. A stable fit means the guard stays in place during play, allowing kids to breathe and speak naturally.
Why Custom Beats Store-Bought Every Time
Store-bought and boil-and-bite mouthguards tend to feel bulky, shift out of place, and do not give children the level of protection a well-fitted appliance can. A custom mouthguard is shaped to your child’s exact bite, which improves comfort, strengthens protection, and prevents the shifting that happens with store-bought options.
Night Guards for Kids Who Grind Their Teeth
Some children clench or grind their teeth during sleep (bruxism) without realizing it, and this can wear enamel or strain the jaw.
A custom night guard absorbs the pressure from grinding or nighttime clenching and helps protect the bite.
When a Mouthguard Is Worth Considering
Your child may benefit from a mouthguard if they:
- Play contact or high-impact sports such as soccer, football, basketball, hockey, wrestling, or martial arts.
- Participate in “non-contact” activities where collisions still happen, such as gymnastics or biking.
- Show signs of nighttime grinding, jaw clenching, or unexplained morning jaw soreness.
Early protection prevents injuries that might require emergency visits or long-term restorative treatment later.
Schedule a Visit at Stanley Pediatric Dentistry
If your child plays sports or shows signs of nighttime grinding, a custom mouthguard offers reliable protection for their developing smile.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Overland Park, call (913) 345-0331 or visit us at 8575 W 110th St Suite 310, Overland Park, KS.
FAQs
Should kids wear mouthguards even for non-contact sports?
Children can still collide with teammates, fall, or get hit by equipment. A custom guard provides a dependable layer of protection no matter how the accident happens.
Are custom guards better than boil-and-bite mouthguards?
Custom guards always provide a superior fit, greater comfort, and stronger protection. Store-bought guards shift in the mouth and cannot match the precision of a dentist-made appliance.
How long does a child’s mouthguard last?
It depends on growth and activity level. Children may outgrow their mouthguard as their teeth change, so a regular dental checkup helps determine when it is time for an update.
