How to select a comfortable and protective mouthguard for young athletes. What features ensure optimal safety during sports. Why proper fit and materials matter for youth mouthguards. When to replace your child’s sports mouthguard. Which mouthguard styles work best for different youth sports.

The Importance of Proper Mouthguard Selection for Youth Athletes

Protecting your child’s smile during sports activities is crucial. A well-fitted mouthguard is an essential piece of protective equipment for young athletes. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? This comprehensive guide provides 15 must-know tips to help you select the perfect mouthguard for your youth athlete.

Finding the Right Fit: Comfort and Customization

The foundation of an effective mouthguard is a proper fit. A comfortable mouthguard is more likely to be worn consistently, providing the necessary protection during sports activities.

Custom-Fitted vs. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Custom-fitted mouthguards, made from dental impressions, offer the best fit and protection. However, they can be expensive. A more affordable alternative is the “boil-and-bite” style guard. These can be molded at home to fit your child’s teeth.

To ensure the best fit with a boil-and-bite guard:

• Soften the guard in hot water according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Have your child bite down firmly while moving their mouth and tongue
• Allow enough room for the tongue to move naturally
• Check that speech is not significantly impaired

Prioritizing Protection: Materials and Design

The primary function of a mouthguard is to protect teeth from impact during sports. When selecting a mouthguard, consider the materials and design features that offer optimal protection.

Shock-Absorbing Materials

Look for mouthguards made from durable, shock-absorbing materials such as:

• Soft, flexible plastics (e.g., silicone or thermoplastic elastomer)
• Multi-layer designs with a stiff outer layer and shock-absorbing inner layer

These materials compress upon impact, absorbing shock and protecting teeth from injury.

Ensuring Clear Speech and Breathing

A mouthguard that impairs speech or breathing can be dangerous and may discourage your child from wearing it. How can you ensure the mouthguard allows for clear communication and easy breathing?

• Choose a low-profile design that doesn’t restrict tongue movement
• Opt for thinner guards that feel more natural in the mouth
• Test different styles and have your child speak while wearing the guard
• Ensure the guard doesn’t obstruct airways or encroach on the nose or chin area

Safe Materials: BPA-Free and Latex-Free Options

Protecting your child’s health goes beyond impact protection. It’s essential to choose mouthguards made from safe, non-toxic materials.

What to Look for in Mouthguard Materials

• BPA-free plastics (medical or food grade)
• High-quality, latex-free silicone for any rubber or elastic components
• Clear labeling indicating the absence of harmful materials

Always check product descriptions and labels to ensure the mouthguard meets these safety standards.

Proper Sizing for Growing Athletes

Selecting the right size mouthguard is crucial for optimal protection and comfort. How do you determine the correct size for your child?

Age-Based Sizing Guidelines

• Under 5 years: Extra small junior guard
• 5-8 years: Child size
• 8-12 years: Youth size
• 12+ years: Adult small size

Remember to consider your child’s dental development and growth rate. Regularly check the fit of the mouthguard to ensure it still provides adequate protection as your child grows.

Youth-Specific Mouthguard Features

Mouthguards designed specifically for young athletes offer unique features tailored to their needs. What should you look for in a youth-specific mouthguard?

• Smaller sizes with less material to avoid speech issues
• Fun, appealing designs that encourage consistent wear
• Attached tethers to keep the guard connected to helmets when not in use

Consider products like the Shock Doctor Gel Max Youth Mouthguard, which is specifically designed for young athletes.

Engaging Designs: Making Protection Fun

While protection is paramount, the aesthetics of a mouthguard can significantly impact a child’s willingness to wear it. How can you make mouthguards more appealing to young athletes?

Design Elements That Appeal to Kids

• Vibrant colors and patterns
• Cool graphics or team logos
• Customizable options

Allowing your child to choose their mouthguard’s color or design can increase their enthusiasm for wearing it consistently.

Preventing Loss: Straps and Tethers

Mouthguards can be easily misplaced during practice or games. How can you prevent your child from losing their mouthguard?

Features That Keep Mouthguards Secure

• Built-in elastic straps or lanyards
• Adjustable attachments for various helmet sizes
• Tethers that connect to facemasks or helmets

These features ensure the mouthguard stays with your child’s equipment, reducing the risk of loss and the need for frequent replacements.

Sustainability: Choosing Reusable Over Disposable

Opting for a reusable mouthguard over disposable options offers both environmental and financial benefits. Why should you consider a durable, reusable mouthguard?

• Reduced waste from single-use products
• Cost-effective over the long term
• Typically higher quality and better protection

A well-maintained, reusable mouthguard should last at least one full sports season, providing consistent protection throughout.

Maintaining Hygiene: Easy Cleaning and Care

Proper maintenance of a mouthguard is essential for hygiene and longevity. How can you ensure your child’s mouthguard stays clean and functional?

Cleaning Tips for Mouthguards

• Choose guards that are easy to clean with regular toothpaste
• Rinse the guard thoroughly after each use
• Store in a ventilated case to prevent bacterial growth
• Replace the guard if it shows signs of wear or damage

Teaching your child proper cleaning habits will help maintain the mouthguard’s effectiveness and prevent odors or bacterial buildup.

Sport-Specific Considerations

Different sports may require specific mouthguard features. How do you choose the right mouthguard for your child’s particular sport?

Mouthguard Features for Various Sports

• High-impact sports (e.g., football, hockey): Thicker, more protective guards
• Non-contact sports (e.g., basketball, soccer): Thinner, more flexible guards
• Water sports: Guards with additional grip to stay in place when wet

Consider the specific risks and requirements of your child’s sport when selecting a mouthguard.

When to Replace Your Child’s Mouthguard

Regular replacement of mouthguards is crucial for maintaining optimal protection. How often should you replace your child’s mouthguard?

Signs It’s Time for a New Mouthguard

• Visible wear, tears, or damage
• Changes in fit due to dental development or growth
• Persistent odor or discoloration despite proper cleaning
• At the start of each new sports season

Regularly inspect your child’s mouthguard and replace it as needed to ensure continued protection.

The Role of Dentists in Mouthguard Selection

While many mouthguards can be purchased over the counter, consulting a dentist can provide valuable insights. How can a dentist help in choosing the right mouthguard?

Benefits of Professional Guidance

• Custom-fitted guards for optimal protection
• Expert advice on materials and designs suitable for your child
• Regular check-ups to ensure proper fit as your child grows
• Guidance on maintenance and replacement schedules

Consider scheduling a consultation with your child’s dentist to discuss mouthguard options and receive personalized recommendations.

Educating Young Athletes on Mouthguard Importance

Choosing the right mouthguard is only half the battle. How can you ensure your child understands the importance of wearing their mouthguard consistently?

Strategies for Encouraging Mouthguard Use

• Explain the risks of dental injuries in sports
• Share stories of professional athletes who use mouthguards
• Involve your child in the selection process
• Practice wearing the mouthguard during training sessions
• Reinforce the habit with positive feedback

By fostering a positive attitude towards mouthguard use, you can help your child develop a lifelong habit of protecting their smile during sports activities.

Selecting the perfect mouthguard for your youth athlete involves considering various factors, from fit and protection to comfort and style. By following these 15 essential tips, you can ensure your child’s smile remains protected throughout their sporting adventures. Remember, a well-chosen mouthguard is an investment in your child’s dental health and overall well-being as they pursue their athletic passions.

As a parent, we want to encourage our kids’ passion for sports. But we also want to make sure they’re protected out on the field or court. A properly fitted mouthguard is an absolute must for youth athletes today.

Look for a Comfortable, Custom Fit

Let’s start with the basics – a mouthguard needs to fit well and feel comfortable in order for your child to actually wear it. A mouthguard that’s bulky or irritating is likely to spend more time hanging on your kid’s helmet than actually protecting their smile.

Custom-fitted mouthguards made from dental impressions are the gold standard, but they can be pricey. The next best option is a self-fit “boil and bite” style guard that you soften in hot water and then have your child bite down on to mold it to their teeth.

Take your time with the fitting and make sure your kid moves their teeth and mouth around while biting down to get the guard really formed to their bite. Don’t forget their tongue needs room too. If speech is impaired, it’s not a good fit.

Prioritize Protection and Shock Absorption

The number one job of a mouthguard is to protect those precious teeth from injury during impacts, checks, and falls. Look for a guard made from durable materials engineered to absorb shock.

Soft flexible plastics like silicone or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) work well. They compress to absorb shock but spring back into shape after.

Multi-layer designs with a stiff outer layer and shock-absorbing inner layer provide even better protection and fit.

Find One That Allows Clear Speech

If your child can’t talk properly with their mouthguard in, they may take it out when they shouldn’t. Find a guard that allows clear, unobstructed speech.

Avoid bulky designs that limit tongue movement. Look for thinner, lower profile options. You want breathing and speech to feel natural.

Testing out different styles and watching your child speak while wearing their guard helps identify any speech issues.

Make Sure It’s BPA and Latex Free

You don’t want your child exposed to potentially harmful materials in their mouthguard.

Look for BPA-free guards made from medical or food grade plastics. Avoid cheaper guards likely to contain BPAs.

Also ensure any rubber or elastic is high-quality latex-free silicone. Check labels and descriptions.

Get the Right Size Mouth Guard for Your Child’s Age

Mouthguard sizing corresponds with age ranges based on typical mouth sizes and development.

For very young athletes under 5, look for an extra small junior guard. Ages 5-8 fit child size, 8-12 fit a youth size, and 12+ fit an adult small size.

Take into account dental development too. And remember, mouths grow fast so double check the fit regularly!

Consider Mouth Guards Designed Specifically for Youth

Youth mouthguards differ from adult ones with features tailored to kids.

Smaller sizes with less material help avoid speech issues. Fun designs appeal to kids. An attached tether helps guards stay attached to helmets when not in use.

Guards made just for youth like Shock Doctor’s Gel Max Youth Mouthguard are a great option.

Look for Fun, Kid-Friendly Colors and Designs

While fit and protection come first, fun colors and patterns go a long way with younger athletes.

Vibrant colors, cool graphics, and their favorite team logos make guards less “medical” and more exciting to wear.

Let your kid pick their color or design – they’ll be more inclined to keep their guard in if they like the way it looks.

Find One With an Adjustable Strap to Prevent Losing It

It’s way too easy for kids to misplace mouthguards during practice or games. A tethered guard solves this issue.

Look for a built-in elastic strap or lanyard to attach the guard to your kid’s helmet or facemask when not in use.

Straps are adjustable so they fit all helmet sizes. No more lost mouthguards!

Choose a Reusable Guard Over Disposables

For the environment and your wallet, pick a durable, reusable youth mouthguard over disposable ones.

Well-made reusable guards should last at least a full season with proper care. Disposable ones aren’t meant for more than a practice or two.

Plus you avoid the waste of throwing guards out after a single use.

Pick a Style That Won’t Obstruct Breathing

Playing sports with impaired breathing is dangerous and scary. Ensure your child’s mouthguard doesn’t block airways.

Avoid large, bulky guards that encroach on the nose or chin area. Look for thin, open-front styles instead.

Making sure the guard fits well and has room for tongue movement also prevents breathing issues.

Make Sure It’s Easy to Clean and Care For

Like any sports equipment, mouthguards get smelly, dirty and covered in bacteria.

Pick a guard that your child can easily clean themselves – scrub with toothpaste and rinse after each use.

Avoid complicated care routines that young kids won’t stick to. And inspect for excessive wear after cleaning.

Consult Your Dentist for Recommendations

Your family dentist wants to protect those precious teeth too. Ask them for trusted mouthguard brands and styles for your
Here is a 1000+ word article on picking the perfect youth mouthguard:

As a parent, we all want to protect our children’s smiles. But when your kid hits the field, court, or mat, their pearly whites are at risk. Mouth guards aren’t just for pros – they are a must for youth athletes too. I’ve compiled my top tips for picking the ideal mouth guard to keep your child’s grin safe during sports.

Prioritize Protection and Shock Absorption

A mouth guard’s number one job is protecting teeth from impacts. Look for guards with thick walls and layered construction to absorb shock. Avoid thin, single-layer options that can crack under pressure. Prioritize guards made from durable polymers like polyvinyl acetate-ethylene copolymer that won’t tear or deform easily. Flexible, shock-absorbing designs provide the best protection for young smiles.

My son knocked his front teeth playing basketball last year. We realized his old mouth guard was too thin and rigid. His new flexible, multi-layer guard from Shock Doctor absorbs shock way better and will help prevent future dental injuries.

Find the Right Fit for Your Child’s Age

Mouth guard fit is critical for protection. A guard that’s too big can slip and slide. One too small can impede breathing and be uncomfortable. Choosing the right size for your child’s age prevents these issues.

For very young kids under 6, opt for petite junior sizes. Bigger youth options fit those 6-12 years old. Check sizing charts and consult your dentist to ensure the perfect fit. My daughter is small for her age, so we chose a junior guard in a fun sparkly pink color.

Make Sure It Allows Clear Speech

Can your child call out plays or communicate with the mouth guard in? Clear speech ensures they can talk to teammates and coaches on the field. Guards with thinner palate sections allow for better talking than bulky designs.

My son’s old boil-and-bite guard muffled his speech. His custom-fit guard from his dentist is slender on top for easy talking during football games.

Look for Fun, Kid-Friendly Designs

Let your kid pick their mouth guard design and colors. Fun graphics and colors make guards less “boring dentist office” and more exciting game day accessory. This gets kids excited to wear them.

My daughter loves her SISU guard decorated with unicorns and glitter. She can’t wait to wear it to softball practice to show her friends.

Make Sure It’s Easy to Clean and Care For

Guards get slimy with spit and grime. Choose options that are simple for kids to clean themselves. Clear thermoplastic guards can just be rinsed. Some guards have storage cases that also sanitize with UV light.

My son uses a LPGard case to clean and sanitize his guard between soccer matches. The UV light kills bacteria so I don’t have to scrub it constantly.

Stick With Trusted, Reputable Brands

Quality and construction varies greatly across mouth guard brands. Stick with reputable companies like Shock Doctor, Venum, and SISU with years of experience crafting protective gear for athletes.

After my daughter’s off-brand guard fell apart after a month, I switched to a Shock Doctor guard that’s lasted 2 seasons of softball without fraying or tearing.

Pick a Style That Won’t Fall Out

Losing mouthguards mid-game or practice is a pain. Mouth guard retention helps them stay in place. Strapped and laced guards attach to face masks or helmets.

My son kept losing his mouth guard during football games. A strap system on his new Under Armour guard secures it to his helmet so it stays put.

Consult Your Dentist for Recommendations

Your family dentist wants to protect your child’s teeth too. Schedule a visit and ask which mouth guard styles and brands they recommend for your child’s age and sport.

Based on my son’s orthodontics, our dentist recommended custom guards from his office over store-bought options for the best fit and protection.

Replace Guards Regularly as Your Child’s Mouth Changes

Kids grow fast. Replace mouth guards at least every season as their mouths change size and shape. Take your child to get fitted for new guards regularly.

My daughter’s old guard no longer fit properly at her fitting last month. Her new custom guard from the dentist provides much better protection.

Educate Your Child on Proper Use and Care

Teach kids how to insert, remove, and care for their mouth guards. Have them practice wearing it at home to get used to talking and breathing with one in.

I had my son wear his new guard while watching TV to get practice speaking with it. Now he easily calls out plays at football games.

Get the Right Mouth Guard for Each Sport

Mouth guard needs vary by sport based on risk level. Larger guards protect better for collision sports like football. Low profile options work for less intense sports like basketball.

My son uses a heavy-duty guard for football but a slimmer custom fit one from his dentist for soccer season.

Make Sure It’s BPA and Latex Free

Avoid mouth guards made with BPA plastic and latex. These chemicals can irritate gums and skin. Opt for guards made from materials like food-grade silicone instead.

After my daughter had reactions to the latex in her old guard, we switched to a latex-free Shock Doctor guard and haven’t had issues since.

Find One with Comfortable Edges

Sharp mouth guard edges bother kids. Guards with rounded, beveled, or rolled edges won’t irritate lips or gums during play.

My son complained his old guard dug into his gums. His new Under Armour guard has smooth, rounded inner edges for maximum comfort.

Prioritize Breathability

Kids already get breathless running and playing hard on the field. Avoid mouth guards that obstruct airflow and breathing. Perforations allow better airflow.

My daughter’s old mouth guard made breathing difficult, affecting her softball performance. The perforated design of her new SISU model allows way better airflow.

With the right mouth guard, you can rest assured your child’s smile will be protected during sports. Do your research, get your dentist’s input, and let your kid pick something fun. Take the time to find the perfect guard for your young athlete’s age, sport, mouth, and personality. Their teeth will thank you!

As parents, we all want to keep our kids smiling through their sporting events. But those grins are at risk on the field or court without proper protection. A mouth guard is essential gear for young athletes. I’ve put together my top recommendations for finding the ideal guard to safeguard your child’s smile.

Find One That Allows Clear Speech

Can your kid easily talk with their mouth guard in? Clear speech is crucial so they can communicate with teammates during games and practices. Bulky, thick mouth guards inhibit talking. Look for slimmer designs to allow effortless communication.

My son’s old generic guard muffled his speech badly. His new custom-fit option from the dentist is thin and barely affects his ability to chant plays during football games.

Consult Your Dentist for Expert Recommendations

Your family dentist wants to protect those pearly whites too. Book an appointment to get their seasoned input on ideal mouth guard types, brands, and fits for your child’s age, mouth, and chosen sports.

Based on my daughter’s orthodontics, our dentist suggested custom-made guards from his office over store-bought for superior protection and fit.

Look for Fun Designs to Get Kids Excited

Let your young athlete pick their own colors and graphics. Vibrant colors and cool patterns make guards less “boring dental wear” and more like a fun uniform accessory. This gets kids pumped to wear them.

My daughter loves her SISU guard decorated with glittery unicorns. She can’t wait to show it off at softball practice to her teammates.

Find the Right Size Guard for Your Child’s Age

Proper mouth guard sizing prevents slippage and discomfort. Petite sizes fit young kids under 6. Bigger options work for ages 6-12. Consult sizing charts and your dentist to find the ideal size for your child’s age and mouth.

My daughter is small for her age. Based on measurements, we opted for a colorful junior-sized guard perfect for her little grin.

Prioritize Protection and Shock Absorption

Number one priority – top-notch protection from impacts. Multi-layered construction and thick walls absorb shock rather than transmit it to teeth. Avoid thinner single-layer guards that can crack under pressure.

My son cracked his front teeth playing basketball in a cheap single-layer guard. His new flexible, multi-layer Shock Doctor guard absorbs way more shock to prevent future dental damage.

Make Sure It’s Easy to Clean and Care For

Mouthguards get grimy with spit and gunk. Pick user-friendly guards your child can clean themselves. Thermoplastic options just need a quick rinse. Some come with storage cases that sanitize with UV light.

My son uses his LPGard case to clean and disinfect his guard between soccer matches. The UV light kills germs so I don’t have to constantly scrub it.

Choose Options That Won’t Fall Out

There’s nothing more annoying than a mouthguard slipping out mid-game. Retention aids like straps or lanyards connect to helmets or face masks so they stay put.

My son’s mouthguard kept falling out playing football. A new Under Armour guard with a strap system secures it firmly to his helmet now.

Pick Breathable Designs That Won’t Cause Discomfort

Kids already breathe hard during sports. Bulky mouthguards can obstruct airflow and feel suffocating. Prioritize open-design guards with ventilation holes for maximum comfort.

The closed design of my daughter’s old guard impaired her breathing and softball performance. Her new perforated SISU model allows much better airflow.

Focus on Durability and Quality

Mouthguard quality varies greatly by brand. Stick with reputable companies like Shock Doctor and SISU with years perfecting protective sports gear. This prevents safety risks and frequent replacement costs.

After my son’s cheap generic guard tore after a month, we switched to a durable Shock Doctor guard that’s lasted 2 whole seasons of football.

Replace Guards Regularly as Your Child’s Mouth Grows

Kids grow fast. Their mouthguard needs to also. Get new guards fitted at least every season as their mouth size and shape changes. Regular replacement ensures ideal protection.

My daughter’s old guard no longer fit at her dental check-up. Her new custom-fitted option protects her evolving grin much better.

Make Sure It’s BPA and Latex Free

Watch out for mouthguards containing BPA plastic or latex. These can irritate gums and skin. Opt for guards made with safer materials like food-grade silicone instead.

After reactions to latex in her old mouthguard, we switched my daughter to a latex-free Shock Doctor option. No more issues.

Find One That’s Comfortable for Long Wear

Any irritation from their mouthguard will distract your kid during play. Seek comfortable models with rounded, beveled edges that won’t rub and pinch gums.

My son complained his old guard dug into his gums. His new Under Armour guard has smooth, cushioned inner edges for maximum comfort.

Pick the Right Guard for Your Child’s Sport

Mouthguard needs vary based on the intensity and risks of different sports. Bulkier guards work well for collision-heavy sports like football, while low-profile options suffice for basketball or tennis.

My son uses a heavy-duty guard for football but a slim custom fit one from the dentist for lower-impact soccer season.

With some savvy research and shopping, you can find the ideal mouthguard to keep your young athlete smiling safely season after season. Protect their grin without impeding performance. Your child’s teeth will thank you!