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Writer's pictureDr. Neha Bhati

Kids Sports Mouth Guard: A guide for your child athletes


Almost all the parents in the world have once dreamt of their children being a sportsperson. If not this, they at least do all the efforts to make their child love a sport and be super enthusiastic about it. Well, if you already are a parent with an athlete kid, then this blog will be helpful for you. Today we will be talking about sports mouth guard for your kids; whether it is helpful, necessary and what are the side effects of it.


What is a Sports Mouth Guard?

A mouthguard is used to protect your teeth and oral cavity from damage and injuries while being a part of any sports activities or teeth grinding. Analytics reveal that without the use of mouth guards there can be a number of oral injuries accounting for at least 200,000 injuries every year.


The data clearly suggests that if your kid is involved in any activities or has teeth grinding issues that mouth guard is the solution. Contact sports like hockey, basketball, soccer or other non contact sports like, skateboarding, mountain bike, wrestling, boxing may cause oral injuries which can be prevented using kids mouth guard. A study shows that 84% are not using mouthguards and hence are affected with severe problems.


Types of Mouth Guard



Stock Mouth Protectors

These mouthguards are one-size-fits-all and arrive pre-formed and ready to use. They rarely fit well because they aren't created precisely for your teeth. Their size and ill-fitting nature might make breathing difficult. Stock mouthguards provide the least amount of protection of any mouthguard. Other adjustable over-the-counter mouthguards often include sliding pieces that rest between your teeth while you sleep.


Boil and Bite Protectors

These mouthguards are made of a thermoplastic polymer that you may shape to fit your teeth at home. Place the mouthguard in hot (not boiling) water to soften it. You next place the softened mouthguard in your mouth and press it on your molars and front teeth with your fingertips. Bite down for around 20 seconds when the mouthguard feels like it's in the right place. The device is then removed and washed in cold water. You can reshape the mouthguard to get the optimum fit by repeating these steps.


Custom Protectors

Your dental specialist utilizes a shape (impression) of your teeth to uniquely design a mouthguard that easily accommodates your teeth and mouth. Custom-fitted mouth defenders cost more, however, they give the best fit and assurance. A custom mouthguard will be made explicitly for your necessities, regardless of whether it be for security from injury during athletic battle or protection from grinding teeth issues (bruxism). A custom mouth guard fitted by your dental specialist does the best job of securing your teeth and mouth.


Does my child really need it?

Looking at the severe damages caused without using sports mouth guards, we would not say NO to it, but then it depends on what kind of activities and sports your child is involved in. A pediatric dentist would be the best in suggesting this and also what kind of mouthguard will be effective for your child. Do proper analysis and then you can go for a sports mouthguard that has the following qualities:

  • Proper fitting around the gums

  • Should not provide resistance to breathing or speech

  • Should not cause pain

  • Durable

  • Easy to clean


Alba Dental Clinic provides oral routine treatment and painless surgeries for keeping the smile of your kids intact. Contact us to get assistance for mouth guards at smile@albadental.in or call on +91 9599-700-120.

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