If your child plays sports, you’ve probably bought a sports mouthguard at some point. Maybe you grabbed one from the sporting goods store, boiled it on the stove, and had your kid bite down for a few seconds. Done, right?
Not so fast. That boil-and-bite mouthguard might be doing less than you think. At Reedy Creek Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Cary, Dr. Reece wants parents to know the difference between a store-bought guard and one that’s actually a custom-made sports mouthguard for your child’s mouth.
What’s Wrong with Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards?
Boil-and-bite guards are popular because they’re cheap and easy. But there’s a trade-off. They don’t fit well. And a mouthguard that doesn’t fit isn’t protecting your child the way it should.
When you boil that plastic and have your child bite into it, the material molds to their teeth, sort of. But it’s thick in some spots and thin in others. It doesn’t stay in place when you take a hard hit. It can shift, slide, or even fall out during play. And when it doesn’t stay put, it can’t absorb the impact of a blow to the face.
What a Custom Mouthguard Does Differently
A custom mouthguard is made from an exact impression of your child’s teeth. Dr. Reece takes a digital scan or a physical mold, and the guard is created specifically for that mouth. It fits snugly over the teeth and stays exactly where it should.
That precise fit matters more than you’d think. A custom guard distributes impact evenly across the whole mouth. It cushions the teeth, absorbs shock, and helps prevent injuries to the jaw, lips, cheeks, and tongue. It also makes it easier for your child to talk, breathe, and drink water during the game.
Why Kids Are at Higher Risk
Young athletes are actually more vulnerable to dental injuries than adults. Their mouths are still developing. Their jawbones aren’t fully hardened. And their coordination isn’t always where they want it to be.
According to the American Dental Association, athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are 60 times more likely to damage their teeth. That’s a huge number. And it’s not just football or hockey. Basketball, soccer, baseball, gymnastics, and even skateboarding can lead to mouth injuries.
Which Sports Need a Mouthguard?
Some sports are obvious. Football, lacrosse, and hockey all require mouthguards. But here’s a list of sports where a mouthguard is a smart idea, even if it’s not required:
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Baseball and softball
- Wrestling
- Gymnastics
- Skateboarding and rollerblading
- Mountain biking
- Water polo
If there’s a chance of contact with another player, a ball, or the ground, a mouthguard is worth it.
What About Kids with Braces?
Kids with braces need mouthguards too, maybe even more so. Braces can cut the inside of the mouth during a collision. A custom mouthguard protects the lips and cheeks from those sharp edges. It also protects the braces from damage.
Dr. Reece can create a mouthguard that fits comfortably over braces. It might need to be replaced as your child’s teeth shift, so regular checkups are important.
How to Care for a Mouthguard
A mouthguard is only helpful if it’s clean and in good shape. Rinse it with cool water before and after each use. Wash it with mild soap and a soft toothbrush every few days. Store it in a ventilated case so it can dry out. And never leave it in a hot car; heat can warp the material and ruin the fit.
Replace the mouthguard if it gets torn, loose, or if your child’s mouth changes (like when they lose a tooth or get braces adjusted).
Protecting More Than Just Teeth
A mouthguard isn’t just about saving teeth. It’s about preventing pain, expensive dental bills, and time on the sidelines. It’s about giving your child the confidence to play hard without worrying about their smile.
If your child plays sports, talk to Dr. Reece about a custom sports mouthguard. Call us at 919-646-6294 or request an appointment online. It’s one of the simplest ways to protect your child’s smile for the long run.