Youth sports are full of energy, fun, and teamwork—but they can also be rough on young smiles. From basketball and soccer to martial arts and skateboarding, an unexpected fall or collision can easily damage your child’s teeth. A properly fitted mouthguard is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect those pearly whites and prevent long-term dental issues. At Seahorse Kids Dental, we help families find comfortable, protective solutions that keep kids confident and safe on the field, court, or mat.
Why Mouthguards Matter
Every year, thousands of children experience dental injuries during recreational and organized sports. Even a small bump to the mouth can cause chips, fractures, or knocked-out teeth. Mouthguards act like shock absorbers—spreading the force of impact and reducing injury to the teeth, lips, cheeks, and jaw. For children whose permanent teeth are still coming in, this protection is essential to preserving proper alignment and avoiding future orthodontic complications.
The Differences Between Stock, Boil-and-Bite, and Custom Mouthguards
Parents have several options when choosing a mouthguard, but not all offer the same level of safety or comfort. Stock mouthguards, the pre-made versions found in sporting goods stores, are inexpensive but often bulky and hard to breathe with. Many kids remove them mid-game, which defeats their purpose.
Boil-and-bite mouthguards are a step up. They can be softened in hot water and molded to the child’s teeth, offering a somewhat better fit—but the material thins out in the spots where it’s needed most.
Custom mouthguards, made by a pediatric dentist like Dr. Grant at Seahorse Kids Dental, provide the best combination of comfort, fit, and durability. They’re designed from a dental impression or scan to contour perfectly to your child’s teeth and bite. This precision fit allows for easy breathing, speaking, and consistent protection throughout the entire sports season. For an active child, that can make the difference between wearing a mouthguard and avoiding it altogether.
When Should Children Wear Mouthguards?
Mouthguards aren’t just for football or hockey. Any sport with contact, falls, or flying equipment poses a risk of dental injury. That includes basketball, baseball, gymnastics, martial arts, mountain biking, and even skateboarding. Kids with braces or previous dental injuries should wear a mouthguard for every practice and game. The extra cushioning helps protect both the hardware and the soft tissues of the mouth from cuts or damage.
Caring for a Mouthguard
Good maintenance extends the life of your child’s mouthguard. After every use, rinse it with cool water and gently brush it with a toothbrush. Store it in a ventilated case away from heat sources—like direct sunlight or a car dashboard—to prevent warping. Schedule regular checkups with Seahorse Kids Dental to ensure the mouthguard still fits properly, especially as your child grows. Most active kids need a new one every sports season or at least once per year.
Mouthguards for Kids with Braces
Children undergoing orthodontic treatment require extra care when selecting a mouthguard. Custom designs can be made to fit comfortably over brackets and wires, allowing room for ongoing tooth movement. These specialized guards prevent soft-tissue injuries and help protect expensive orthodontic appliances from damage during play. At Seahorse Kids Dental, we offer brace-friendly options that keep your child’s smile and orthodontic work safe.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard
When selecting a mouthguard, consider comfort, fit, and quality of material. Ask whether your child can breathe and speak easily while wearing it, whether it stays securely in place, and if it can be adjusted or remade as they grow. Materials should always be BPA-free, non-toxic, and thick enough in high-impact areas without being bulky. If your child complains about discomfort or looseness, it’s time for a replacement.
Schedule a Custom Mouthguard Fitting in Harbor City
Protecting your child’s teeth today helps preserve their smile for life. Seahorse Kids Dental creates custom, kid-friendly mouthguards that fit comfortably and offer superior protection for every sport and season. To schedule a fitting or learn more about our pediatric dental services, call (310) 596-1111 and give your young athlete the confidence to play, smile, and grow safely.