Mouth guards, also known as sports guards or athletic mouth protectors, are essential for any child participating in recreational or sporting activities that carry a risk of injury. Fitting snugly over the upper teeth, they protect the teeth, gums, and jaw from trauma, and can also prevent damage caused by nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism).

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Why Mouth Guards Are Important

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends mouth guards for all children involved in sports or activities that could cause oral injury. Mouth guards protect the teeth and reduce force transmission from impacts to the jaw, helping to minimize the risk of traumatic brain injury. They also help prevent:

  • Cheek lesions
  • Concussions
  • Gum and soft tissue injuries
  • Jawbone fractures
  • Lip lesions
  • Neck injuries
  • Tongue lesions
  • Tooth fractures

Choosing the Right Mouth Guard

There are three main types of mouth guards: stock, boil-and-bite, and customized. Choosing the right type depends on budget, frequency of sports participation, and the type of sport.

Stock Mouth Guards

Purchased off the shelf, these one-size-fits-all guards are inexpensive and easy to find. However, they provide minimal protection, can obstruct breathing and speech, and are often uncomfortable. Pediatric dentists generally recommend these least.

Boil and Bite Mouth Guards

Made from thermoplastic, these guards are softened in hot water and molded to the child’s teeth. They provide better protection than stock guards, are more comfortable, and allow for easier speech and breathing. They are moderately priced and widely available.

Customized Mouth Guards

Custom-made by the dentist, these mouth guards offer the highest level of protection and comfort. The dentist takes an impression of the child’s teeth and constructs the guard over the mold. They are more expensive and take longer to make, but are orthodontically correct and fully approved by the dentist.

If you have questions about which mouth guard is right for your child, please contact our office.