As a parent, you want to do everything in your power to keep your child safe and healthy. When it comes to protecting their teeth, jaw, and overall oral well-being during sports and other physical activities, a custom-fitted dental mouth guard is an essential piece of equipment.
Our team at 949 Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics understands the importance of properly designed and fitted mouth guards in preventing dental injuries and ensuring your child’s long-term oral health.
What are Dental Mouth Guards?
Dental mouth guards, also known as sports guards or athletic mouth guards, are flexible appliances worn over the teeth during sports and recreational activities to protect against injury to the teeth, mouth, lips, tongue, and jaw.
They act as a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing and distributing forces from impacts to minimize the risk of damage.
Your Child’s Smile, Our Specialty
Types of Dental Mouth Guards
There are three main types of dental mouth guards available:
Stock mouth guards
These are preformed, ready-to-wear guards that can be purchased at most sporting goods stores. While they are the least expensive option, they often fit poorly and can be bulky and uncomfortable.
Boil-and-bite mouth guards
These mouth guards are made from thermoplastic material that softens when heated in water, allowing the user to shape the guard around their teeth using finger and tongue pressure. Boil-and-bite guards offer a better fit than stock guards but may not provide the same level of protection as custom-fitted guards.
Custom-fitted mouth guards
Custom mouth guards are made by dental professionals using impressions of the patient’s teeth. They offer the best fit, comfort, and protection, as they are tailored to the individual’s unique dental structure. Custom guards are particularly recommended for patients with braces or other dental appliances.
Benefits of Custom-Fitted Dental Mouth Guards
Investing in a custom-fitted dental mouth guard from 949 Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics offers numerous advantages for your child or teen:
- Superior protection: Custom guards provide the highest level of protection against dental injuries, as they are precisely crafted to fit your child’s unique dental structure.
- Enhanced comfort: With a perfect fit, custom mouth guards are more comfortable to wear, making it easier for your child to stay committed to using their guard consistently.
- Improved athletic performance: Custom guards allow for easier breathing and speaking compared to ill-fitting stock or boil-and-bite guards, enabling your child to focus on their sport without distraction.
- Durability: Custom mouth guards are made from high-quality materials and are built to last, providing long-term value for your investment.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your child’s teeth and mouth are optimally protected during sports activities can give you peace of mind as a parent.
Who Needs a Dental Mouth Guard?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that anyone participating in a sport or recreational activity that carries a risk of injury to the mouth or face should wear a properly fitted mouth guard.
This includes a wide range of activities, such as:
| Sport/Activity Group |
| Contact Sports (e.g., Football, Basketball, Soccer, Hockey, Lacrosse, Rugby) |
| Combat Sports (e.g., Martial Arts) |
| Ball Sports (e.g., Baseball, Softball) |
| High Risk of Falls (e.g., Skateboarding, Gymnastics, Bicycling) |
Even non-contact sports like gymnastics carry a risk of dental injury from falls or collisions. It’s better to err on the side of caution and protect your child’s teeth with a mouth guard.
Join the Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics family for dedicated, child-friendly dental care that makes every visit a fun experience.
How We Create Custom Dental Mouth Guards
Creating a custom-fitted dental mouth guard at 949 Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics is a simple and painless process:
Dental examination
We start with a thorough dental exam to ensure your child’s teeth and mouth are healthy and to check for any pre-existing dental issues that may affect the fit of the mouth guard.
Impressions
We take precise impressions of your child’s upper and lower teeth using dental alginate or digital scanning technology.
Model creation
The impressions are used to create a detailed model of your child’s teeth.
Guard fabrication
Using the model, our skilled dental technicians craft a custom mouth guard from high-quality, durable materials. We can even personalize the guard with your child’s name or team colors.
Fitting and adjustments
Once the mouth guard is ready, we’ll have your child try it on to ensure a perfect fit. Any necessary adjustments can be made at this time.
Throughout the process, our friendly and compassionate team will guide you and your child, answering any questions you may have and providing tips for proper mouth guard use and care.
Our Commitment to Your Child’s Oral Health
At 949 Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality dental care to children and teens in a warm, welcoming environment. Our team of board-certified pediatric dentists and orthodontists combines expertise with compassion, ensuring that your child receives the best possible care.
In addition to custom dental mouth guards, we offer a full range of pediatric dental services, including:
- Preventive care (cleanings, exams, sealants, fluoride treatments)
- Restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, pulp therapy)
- Orthodontics (braces, Invisalign, expanders)
- Laser dentistry
- Special needs dentistry
- Emergency dental care
We’re committed to building lasting relationships with our patients and their families, promoting lifelong oral health through education, prevention, and individualized care.
FAQs About Dental Mouth Guards for Kids and Teens
At what age should my child start wearing a dental mouth guard for sports?
Children should start wearing a dental mouth guard as soon as they begin participating in any sport or recreational activity that poses a risk of oral injury. This can be as early as age 5 or 6 for some children.
Can my child wear a dental mouth guard if they have braces?
Yes, children with braces can and should wear dental mouth guards during sports. In fact, a custom-fitted mouth guard is especially important for children with braces, as it can help protect the braces and the soft tissues of the mouth from injury. Our team will work with your child’s orthodontist to ensure their custom guard fits comfortably over their braces.
How long does it take to get a custom dental mouth guard?
The process of creating a custom dental mouth guard typically takes two visits to our office. During the first visit, we’ll take impressions of your child’s teeth. The actual fabrication of the guard usually takes about a week. At the second visit, we’ll check the fit of the guard and make any necessary adjustments.
How often should my child wear their dental mouth guard?
Your child should wear their custom dental mouth guard whenever they participate in sports or recreational activities that could pose a risk of oral injury. This includes practices and games. Consistent use of the mouth guard is key to preventing dental injuries.
Will a dental mouth guard affect my child’s ability to breathe or speak?
A properly fitted custom dental mouth guard should not interfere with your child’s ability to breathe or speak. In fact, custom guards are designed to allow for proper airflow and are less bulky than stock or boil-and-bite guards, making it easier for your child to communicate while wearing their guard.
Your Child’s Smile, Our Specialty
Protect Your Child’s Winning Smile with 949 Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics
As a parent, you do everything you can to keep your child safe and healthy. When it comes to protecting their teeth and mouth during sports and other activities, a custom dental mouth guard from 949 Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics is one of the best investments you can make.
Don’t wait until an injury occurs. Schedule your child’s appointment today and give them the gift of a lifetime of healthy smiles.
