Custom Mouthguards for Kids: Why They Matter for Sports
When kids play sports, bumps, falls, and accidental collisions are often part of the game. While helmets, pads, and proper footwear are commonly prioritised, one important piece of protective equipment is sometimes overlooked — a mouthguard. A dentist-fitted mouthguard can play a key role in helping protect your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw during sporting activities.
If you’re looking for a kids’ mouthguard dentist in North Lakes, understanding why custom mouthguards matter — and how they compare to store-bought options — can help you make an informed choice for your child’s long-term oral health.
Why Kids Need Mouthguards for Sport
Dental injuries are one of the most common sports-related injuries in children. In Australia, contact and ball sports contribute to a significant number of chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth each year. These injuries don’t just cause immediate pain — they can also lead to ongoing dental care needs as your child grows.
Treating dental trauma can be complex and often involves multiple appointments over time. In contrast, wearing a properly fitted sports mouthguard for kids is a simple preventative step that may reduce the risk of injury during play.
Common sports-related dental injuries include:
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Teeth being pushed out of position
- Lip, cheek, and tongue soft tissue injuries
- Jaw injuries from impact
For growing children, protecting developing teeth is especially important. Early dental trauma can affect both baby teeth and emerging adult teeth, which is why many dentists recommend mouthguards for children involved in active sports.
Custom vs Store-Bought Mouthguards
Not all mouthguards offer the same level of protection. While store-bought options are easy to access, they may not provide the fit or comfort many children need to wear them consistently.
| Feature | Store-Bought Mouthguard | Dentist Fitted Mouthguard |
| Fit | Generic, often bulky | Custom-made to your child’s teeth |
| Protection Level | Limited | Designed for even impact distribution |
| Comfort | Can feel loose or tight | More comfortable for longer wear |
| Breathing & Speech | May interfere | Easier to breathe and talk |
| Durability | Wears down faster | More durable materials |
| Cost Over Time | May need frequent replacement | Designed for ongoing use |
A custom mouthguard for children is made using dental impressions, allowing it to sit securely in place. This tailored fit often makes it easier for kids to keep the mouthguard in during training and games — an important factor in real-world protection.
How Custom Mouthguards Are Made
Many parents are surprised by how straightforward the process is when visiting a kids’ dentist in North Lakes.
- Dental Impression Appointment
Your child’s dentist takes impressions of their teeth. This is quick, gentle, and usually well tolerated by children.
- Laboratory Fabrication
The mouthguard is made to fit your child’s bite and tooth alignment using the imprints that are sent to a dental lab.
- Fitting and Adjustment
Once ready, your child returns for a fitting appointment. Any minor adjustments are made to ensure comfort and proper coverage.
The entire process is designed to be calm and child-friendly, helping kids feel confident about wearing their mouthguard during sport.
Which Sports Require a Mouthguard?
The Australian Dental Association encourages mouthguard use for both contact and non-contact sports where collisions or falls may occur.
Sports where a dentist-fitted mouthguard is commonly recommended include:
- AFL and rugby
- Basketball and netball
- Cricket
- Martial arts
- Hockey
- Soccer
Even in non-contact sports, accidental impacts can happen — especially at school or weekend competitions. Wearing a mouthguard during training as well as games helps children develop a consistent habit.
Caring for Your Child’s Mouthguard
Proper care helps keep a mouthguard hygienic and effective throughout the season. Simple care tips include:
- Rinse with cold water after each use
- Store in a ventilated protective case
- Avoid leaving it in hot environments
- Bring the mouthguard to dental check-ups
- Replace it if it becomes worn, loose, or damaged
Because children’s mouths change as they grow, mouthguards may need replacing over time. Changes such as new adult teeth or orthodontic treatment can affect the fit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Mouthguards
At what age should a child start wearing a mouthguard?
Children can start wearing a mouthguard as soon as they take part in organised sports where there’s a risk of contact, falls, or accidental collisions.
How much does a children’s mouthguard cost?
The cost can vary depending on the type of mouthguard and the materials used. A dentist can explain suitable options during your child’s appointment.
How long do custom mouthguards last?
Custom mouthguards may last more than one sporting season, but growing children often need replacements as their teeth and jaws change.
Can kids with braces wear a mouthguard?
Yes. Dentists can fit mouthguards to protect both teeth and orthodontic appliances.
Do mouthguards need to be replaced when baby teeth fall out?
Yes. Changes in tooth position can affect how a mouthguard fits, so it’s important to reassess the fit as your child’s teeth develop.
Sport Mouthguards in North Lakes
If your child plays sports and you’re considering a custom mouthguard, visiting a local dental clinic can be a helpful first step. A dentist can assess your child’s teeth, sport type, and growth stage to recommend an appropriate option.
At Passion Family Dental North Lakes, we provide sports mouthguards for kids, with care designed around comfort and fit. We also welcome families from nearby suburbs, including Mango Hill, Griffin, Murrumba Downs, and Kallangur.
Call us on (07) 3482 2209 or book online to arrange an appointment.
A well-fitted mouthguard can support your child’s confidence on the field — and help protect their brighter smile as they grow.
Visit us at Unit 4/6 Endeavour Boulevard in North Lakes.
