Football helmet? Check. Shin guards? Check. Pads? Check.

But what about your child’s teeth?

Parents often associate mouthguards with football, boxing or hockey, but dental injuries can happen during many sports and recreational activities.

If your child participates in an activity where there is a reasonable chance of falling, colliding with another player or being hit in the mouth, a properly fitted mouthguard may be an important piece of protective equipment.

What Does a Sports Mouthguard Protect?

A sports mouthguard is designed to cushion and protect the teeth and surrounding tissues from impact.

Dental injuries during sports can include chipped or fractured teeth, loose or displaced teeth and teeth that are completely knocked out.

A mouthguard cannot prevent every injury, but it can provide an important layer of protection when your child is participating in an activity where the mouth may be hit.

Which Sports Should Kids Wear a Mouthguard For?

Some organized sports require mouthguards, but parents should think beyond sports where they are mandatory.

Mouth protection may be worth considering for activities such as:

• Football

• Basketball

• Soccer

• Hockey

• Lacrosse

• Wrestling and martial arts

• Baseball and softball

• Gymnastics

• Other activities where falls or contact could injure the mouth

A useful rule for parents is this: if your child’s activity creates a meaningful risk of impact to the face or mouth, ask whether a mouthguard makes sense.

What Type of Mouthguard Is Best for My Child?

Sports mouthguards generally include ready-made stock guards, boil-and-bite guards and custom-fitted mouthguards.

The most important considerations are protection and fit. A mouthguard should stay securely in place and be comfortable enough that your child will actually wear it.

A dentist can evaluate your child’s teeth and bite and discuss whether a custom-fitted mouthguard would be appropriate for the sport or activity your child participates in.

What About a Boil-and-Bite Mouthguard?

Boil-and-bite mouthguards are widely available and are shaped at home after the material is softened according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

They may be an option for some children, but fit can vary. If a mouthguard feels loose, uncomfortable or interferes significantly with breathing or communication, talk with your dentist about other options.

What If My Child Has Braces?

Children and teenagers with braces can still benefit from mouth protection during sports, but the mouthguard needs to accommodate orthodontic appliances and changes in the teeth during treatment.

If your child wears braces, ask the dentist or orthodontic provider what type of mouthguard is appropriate rather than assuming a standard mouthguard will fit correctly.

Does My Child Need a New Mouthguard Every Year?

Not automatically — but growing children need their mouthguards checked regularly.

Children lose baby teeth, permanent teeth erupt, jaws grow and orthodontic treatment can change the shape of the mouth. Any of these changes may affect how a mouthguard fits.

Replace a mouthguard if it becomes damaged, badly worn or no longer fits properly. Bringing it to a regular dental visit is an easy way to have the fit checked.

What If My Child Injures a Tooth While Playing Sports?

Even with good protective equipment, accidents can happen.

If your child chips, cracks, loosens or knocks out a tooth, stop the activity and assess the injury. Significant dental trauma should be evaluated promptly.

A knocked-out permanent tooth is time-sensitive. Call a dentist immediately. A knocked-out baby tooth generally should not be placed back into its socket.

Sports Mouthguards for Kids & Teens Near Beaverton

If your child plays sports in Beaverton, Cedar Hills or the surrounding Portland area, ask Cedar Hills Dental Care whether a sports mouthguard may be appropriate.

Christine Chin, DMD earned her D.M.D. from OHSU in 1989 and has more than 35 years of dental experience. Cedar Hills Dental Care has cared for more than 10,000 smiles since 1986, with an emphasis on comfortable, patient-centered dental care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need a mouthguard for basketball?

Basketball involves contact, falls and the possibility of being struck in the face. A mouthguard can provide additional protection for the teeth during play.

Can my child wear a mouthguard with braces?

Yes, but the mouthguard needs to fit properly around the orthodontic appliances and allow for changes as the teeth move. Ask your dental or orthodontic provider which type is appropriate.

When should I replace my child’s mouthguard?

Replace it when it becomes damaged, excessively worn or no longer fits properly. Because children’s mouths change as they grow, the fit should be checked regularly.

Recommended Reading for Parents

Child Chipped or Knocked Out a Tooth? What Parents Should Do →

Know what to do if a sports injury damages one of your child’s teeth.

What Is Considered a Dental Emergency? →

Learn when a dental problem needs prompt attention and when emergency medical care may be necessary.

Children’s Dentistry at Cedar Hills Dental Care →

Learn more about dental care for children and growing smiles.

Family Dentist Near Beaverton →

Learn about comfortable family dental care for children, teens and adults near Beaverton.