Youth Mouthguard Fit and Size Guide Everything Parents Must KnowYouth Mouthguard Fit and Size Guide Everything Parents Must Know
Choosing the Right Youth Mouthguard Size Based on Your Child’s Age and Teeth
One of the most critical factors in ensuring your child’s mouthguard provides maximum protection is getting the sizing right. Kids’ mouths grow rapidly, especially once permanent teeth start coming in, so don’t just assume a one-size-fits-all approach will do. Taking the time to consider your child’s age and where they’re at with their tooth development will help you pick the optimal size for injury prevention.
Shock Doctor’s sizing charts make this easy by breaking down their youth mouthguard offerings by age range. Their “toddler” size is recommended for ages 3-5 when kids have a mix of baby and new permanent teeth. The “youth” size fits most kids ages 6-12 as they transition to a full set of adult teeth. For teens ages 13 and up with mature dentition, the “braces” design works well.
Even within those ranges, understanding whether your child has a more petite mouth or larger teeth can help refine things further. Trying different sizes and monitoring for tightness, gaps, and fit over the gum line is key. An ill-fitting mouthguard hampers breathing and speech and won’t provide comprehensive protection.
Shock Doctor’s InstaFit boil-and-bite mouthguards allow easy at-home customization so you can tweak the fit as needed. Their innovative molding process only takes 10 seconds of biting down to create impression indentations matching your child’s unique bite pattern.
Don’t just pick a color and assume it will work! Consult Shock Doctor’s detailed age-based mouthguard sizing guides and take the time to dial in the size that works best for your child’s current dental development stage. A properly fitted mouthguard protects those precious teeth and reduces concussion risk during competitive, collision-heavy youth sports.
Picking the Right Closed vs. Open-Face Mouthguard Design for Your Child’s Sport
Once you’ve narrowed down the right size mouthguard for your child, the next key decision is whether a closed-face or open-face design works best for their sport. This often comes down to balancing protection, breathability, and ease of speech.
Closed-face mouthguards like Shock Doctor’s Gel Max offer the most comprehensive protection, fully enclosing the teeth and absorbing intense impacts from all directions. The gel-fit liner cushions blows while keeping the guard securely in place. These provide the best shield against dental injuries and concussions for high-collision sports like football, hockey, lacrosse, and wrestling.
However, some athletes find the closed structure inhibits their breathing and speech during endurance sports. This is where open-face guards like Shock Doctor’s Braces and Bubble gum guards can provide a good alternative. By leaving the front teeth exposed, these allow easier talking and airflow while still protecting back molars.
For sports like basketball, soccer, and boxing that involve running but not as much hardcore body checking, an open-face design may work well. But for maximum protection from concussive blows, fractures, and dental trauma, a closed-face mouthguard like the Gel Max is recommended.
Consider your child’s sport and position to determine if breathability or protection should take priority. Guards with an orthodontic focus like Shock Doctor’s Braces Mouthguard are also ideal for kids with braces or complex dental work that needs accommodating.
Don’t leave your child’s safety up to chance. Consult Shock Doctor’s sizing guides to pick the youth mouthguard model that’s engineered specifically to minimize their injury risks based on age, sport, dental structure and design preference. With the right fit and coverage, you can rest assured their teeth are guarded and head protected.
Shock Doctor’s Innovative InstaFit Technology for Easy DIY Custom Mouthguard Molding
Finding the right sized and styled youth mouthguard is only half the battle – you also need a secure customized fit to keep it firmly in place. Shock Doctor’s InstaFit technology makes it easy for parents and kids to DIY mold their mouthguards for a perfect imprint fit.
Rather than having to boil and bite using hot water like old-school mouthguards, Shock Doctor’s guards utilize an innovative cold-form molding process. Simply have your child bite down on the InstaFit impression tray for about 10 seconds with firm pressure. This quickly creates customized indentations matching their bite pattern.
Shock Doctor lab-tests their InstaFit process extensively using advanced dentition mimicking equipment. They’ve refined the thermoplastic formulas to produce a “goldilocks” molding temperature – not too hot or cold. This ensures athlete-tested comfort while still allowing the impressions to set.
The result is a personalized fit specific to your child’s teeth. No more shifting, slipping, or discomfort from generic one-size-fits-all mouthguards. And no need to make special trips to the dentist’s office and pay for custom pro-fits.
Shock Doctor includes clear InstaFit molding instructions with each mouthguard for fool-proof DIY customization at home. Parents can assist younger kids with the process to ensure even pressure. After molding, just trim any excess material using included clippers.
Don’t settle for uncomfortable generic mouthguards that hinder performance. With Shock Doctor’s InstaFit technology, customizing safe, protective mouthguards takes just seconds with no fuss or hassle.
How Shock Doctor Youth Mouthguards Should Fit for Optimal Protection
Closed-Face vs. Open-Face Mouthguard Designs
After determining the correct size, the next crucial decision is choosing between closed-face and open-face mouthguard designs. This choice often depends on the specific sport and the level of protection required.
Closed-Face Mouthguards
Closed-face mouthguards, such as Shock Doctor’s Gel Max, offer the most comprehensive protection. They fully enclose the teeth and absorb impacts from all directions.
Which sports benefit most from closed-face mouthguards? High-collision sports like football, hockey, lacrosse, and wrestling are ideal candidates for this design. The gel-fit liner in these guards cushions blows while keeping the guard securely in place, providing excellent protection against dental injuries and concussions.
Open-Face Mouthguards
Open-face guards, like Shock Doctor’s Braces and Bubble gum guards, leave the front teeth exposed. This design allows for easier breathing and speech, making them suitable for endurance sports or activities that require frequent communication.
When might an open-face design be preferable? Sports like basketball, soccer, and boxing, which involve running but less intense body contact, may benefit from the increased breathability of open-face guards. However, it’s important to weigh this advantage against the reduced protection compared to closed-face designs.
The Importance of Proper Mouthguard Fit
A well-fitted mouthguard is essential for several reasons:
- Maximizes protection against dental injuries
- Reduces risk of concussions
- Ensures comfort during wear
- Allows for proper breathing and speech
How can you tell if a mouthguard fits correctly? A properly fitted guard should stay in place without the need to bite down or hold it with the tongue. It should cover all teeth and extend to the gum line without causing discomfort or interfering with breathing.
Customizing Mouthguards with Shock Doctor’s InstaFit Technology
Shock Doctor’s InstaFit technology offers a convenient solution for achieving a custom fit at home. This innovative cold-form molding process eliminates the need for boiling water, making it safer and easier for parents and children to use.
Steps for Using InstaFit Technology
- Select the appropriate size mouthguard
- Have your child bite down on the InstaFit impression tray
- Maintain firm pressure for about 10 seconds
- Remove the guard and allow it to set
Why is custom molding important? A personalized fit ensures the mouthguard stays in place during activity, providing consistent protection and comfort. It also reduces the risk of the guard falling out or shifting, which could leave your child vulnerable to injury.
Mouthguard Care and Maintenance
Proper care of your child’s mouthguard is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness and hygiene. Here are some essential tips:
- Rinse the mouthguard with cool water before and after each use
- Clean with mild soap and a soft brush regularly
- Store in a ventilated case to prevent bacterial growth
- Avoid exposure to high temperatures, which can warp the guard
- Inspect regularly for signs of wear or damage
How often should you replace a youth mouthguard? As a general rule, replace the mouthguard at least once per season or immediately if it shows signs of wear or damage. For growing children, more frequent replacements may be necessary to ensure proper fit.
The Role of Mouthguards in Concussion Prevention
While primarily designed to protect teeth, mouthguards also play a crucial role in reducing the risk of concussions. How do they accomplish this? By absorbing and dispersing the force of impacts, mouthguards can help minimize the transmission of shock to the brain.
Are all mouthguards equally effective in preventing concussions? Not necessarily. Properly fitted, high-quality mouthguards like those offered by Shock Doctor are more likely to provide optimal protection. The material, thickness, and design all contribute to a guard’s ability to absorb and disperse impact forces.
Key Features of Concussion-Reducing Mouthguards
- Multi-layer construction
- Shock-absorbing materials
- Proper fit and coverage
- Adequate thickness in critical areas
While no mouthguard can completely eliminate the risk of concussion, using a high-quality, well-fitted guard is an essential part of a comprehensive approach to sports safety.
Addressing Common Mouthguard Concerns
Parents often have questions and concerns about their children using mouthguards. Let’s address some of the most common issues:
Speech Difficulties
Can mouthguards affect speech? Initially, wearing a mouthguard may feel awkward and affect speech. However, most children adapt quickly with practice. Encourage your child to wear the guard during practice sessions to become accustomed to speaking with it in place.
Breathing Issues
Do mouthguards impair breathing? A properly fitted mouthguard should not significantly impair breathing. If your child experiences difficulty breathing, consider trying an open-face design or having the fit adjusted.
Gagging Reflex
What if my child has a strong gag reflex? For children with sensitive gag reflexes, start with shorter wearing periods and gradually increase duration. Custom-fitted guards or those with a less bulky design may also help alleviate this issue.
Orthodontic Concerns
Can children with braces wear mouthguards? Yes, specially designed orthodontic mouthguards are available for children with braces. These guards provide extra space to accommodate brackets and wires while still offering protection.
Encouraging Consistent Mouthguard Use
Getting children to consistently wear their mouthguards can be challenging. Here are some strategies to encourage regular use:
- Educate your child about the importance of protection
- Lead by example – wear a mouthguard yourself during sports activities
- Allow your child to choose the color or design of their guard
- Establish a routine for wearing the guard during practice and games
- Praise and reward consistent use
How can coaches and leagues support mouthguard use? Implementing mandatory mouthguard policies for practices and games can significantly increase compliance. Coaches can also incorporate mouthguard checks into pre-game routines and educate players about the importance of protection.
Making Mouthguard Use a Habit
Consistency is key when it comes to mouthguard use. Encourage your child to view their mouthguard as an essential piece of equipment, just like their helmet or shin guards. Over time, wearing a mouthguard will become second nature, providing continuous protection during sports activities.
The Future of Youth Mouthguard Technology
As sports safety research advances, mouthguard technology continues to evolve. What innovations can we expect in the coming years?
- Smart mouthguards with impact sensors
- Improved shock-absorbing materials
- More comfortable and breathable designs
- Enhanced customization techniques
How might these advancements benefit young athletes? Future mouthguards may not only provide better protection but also offer real-time data on impacts and potential injury risks. This information could be invaluable for coaches and parents in monitoring and managing a child’s safety during sports activities.
The Importance of Staying Informed
As mouthguard technology evolves, it’s crucial for parents to stay informed about the latest developments and recommendations. Regularly consult with your child’s dentist or orthodontist, and keep an eye on updates from reputable sports safety organizations.
By staying informed and prioritizing proper mouthguard use, you can help ensure your child enjoys their sports activities while minimizing the risk of dental injuries and concussions. Remember, the right mouthguard, properly fitted and consistently worn, is an essential investment in your child’s safety and long-term well-being.
Choosing the Right Youth Mouthguard Size Based on Your Child’s Age and Teeth
One of the most critical factors in ensuring your child’s mouthguard provides maximum protection is getting the sizing right. Kids’ mouths grow rapidly, especially once permanent teeth start coming in, so don’t just assume a one-size-fits-all approach will do. Taking the time to consider your child’s age and where they’re at with their tooth development will help you pick the optimal size for injury prevention.
Shock Doctor’s sizing charts make this easy by breaking down their youth mouthguard offerings by age range. Their “toddler” size is recommended for ages 3-5 when kids have a mix of baby and new permanent teeth. The “youth” size fits most kids ages 6-12 as they transition to a full set of adult teeth. For teens ages 13 and up with mature dentition, the “braces” design works well.
Even within those ranges, understanding whether your child has a more petite mouth or larger teeth can help refine things further. Trying different sizes and monitoring for tightness, gaps, and fit over the gum line is key. An ill-fitting mouthguard hampers breathing and speech and won’t provide comprehensive protection.
Shock Doctor’s InstaFit boil-and-bite mouthguards allow easy at-home customization so you can tweak the fit as needed. Their innovative molding process only takes 10 seconds of biting down to create impression indentations matching your child’s unique bite pattern.
Don’t just pick a color and assume it will work! Consult Shock Doctor’s detailed age-based mouthguard sizing guides and take the time to dial in the size that works best for your child’s current dental development stage. A properly fitted mouthguard protects those precious teeth and reduces concussion risk during competitive, collision-heavy youth sports.
Picking the Right Closed vs. Open-Face Mouthguard Design for Your Child’s Sport
Once you’ve narrowed down the right size mouthguard for your child, the next key decision is whether a closed-face or open-face design works best for their sport. This often comes down to balancing protection, breathability, and ease of speech.
Closed-face mouthguards like Shock Doctor’s Gel Max offer the most comprehensive protection, fully enclosing the teeth and absorbing intense impacts from all directions. The gel-fit liner cushions blows while keeping the guard securely in place. These provide the best shield against dental injuries and concussions for high-collision sports like football, hockey, lacrosse, and wrestling.
However, some athletes find the closed structure inhibits their breathing and speech during endurance sports. This is where open-face guards like Shock Doctor’s Braces and Bubble gum guards can provide a good alternative. By leaving the front teeth exposed, these allow easier talking and airflow while still protecting back molars.
For sports like basketball, soccer, and boxing that involve running but not as much hardcore body checking, an open-face design may work well. But for maximum protection from concussive blows, fractures, and dental trauma, a closed-face mouthguard like the Gel Max is recommended.
Consider your child’s sport and position to determine if breathability or protection should take priority. Guards with an orthodontic focus like Shock Doctor’s Braces Mouthguard are also ideal for kids with braces or complex dental work that needs accommodating.
Don’t leave your child’s safety up to chance. Consult Shock Doctor’s sizing guides to pick the youth mouthguard model that’s engineered specifically to minimize their injury risks based on age, sport, dental structure and design preference. With the right fit and coverage, you can rest assured their teeth are guarded and head protected.
Shock Doctor’s Innovative InstaFit Technology for Easy DIY Custom Mouthguard Molding
Finding the right sized and styled youth mouthguard is only half the battle – you also need a secure customized fit to keep it firmly in place. Shock Doctor’s InstaFit technology makes it easy for parents and kids to DIY mold their mouthguards for a perfect imprint fit.
Rather than having to boil and bite using hot water like old-school mouthguards, Shock Doctor’s guards utilize an innovative cold-form molding process. Simply have your child bite down on the InstaFit impression tray for about 10 seconds with firm pressure. This quickly creates customized indentations matching their bite pattern.
Shock Doctor lab-tests their InstaFit process extensively using advanced dentition mimicking equipment. They’ve refined the thermoplastic formulas to produce a “goldilocks” molding temperature – not too hot or cold. This ensures athlete-tested comfort while still allowing the impressions to set.
The result is a personalized fit specific to your child’s teeth. No more shifting, slipping, or discomfort from generic one-size-fits-all mouthguards. And no need to make special trips to the dentist’s office and pay for custom pro-fits.
Shock Doctor includes clear InstaFit molding instructions with each mouthguard for fool-proof DIY customization at home. Parents can assist younger kids with the process to ensure even pressure. After molding, just trim any excess material using included clippers.
Don’t settle for uncomfortable generic mouthguards that hinder performance. With Shock Doctor’s InstaFit technology, customizing safe, protective mouthguards takes just seconds with no fuss or hassle.
How Shock Doctor Youth Mouthguards Should Fit for Optimal Protection
Now that you’ve selected the right sized Shock Doctor mouthguard and molded it using their InstaFit technology, how can you be sure the fit is optimized for protection? Proper mouthguard positioning is crucial for keeping it securely in place and absorbing impacts.
The guard should feel snug but not painfully tight when inserted. There should be no gaps between the material and teeth – a loose fit causes slipping. However, if the guard is too tight it can constrict breathing and be uncomfortable over time.
Check that both upper and lower teeth are making impressions in the guard material. Even pressure on both sets of chompers helps stabilize it. You want coverage extending a bit past the gum line to protect this vulnerable area.
For open-face guards, make sure the back molars are fully embedded in the guard material. These anchor the guard and provide crucial protection from rear impacts. Permanent top and bottom molars should be making clear indentations.
Monitor while your child is talking, breathing heavily, and actively moving in practice to ensure the guard isn’t dislodging or shifting. Re-mold if needed to dial in the fit. Proper insertion technique also prevents loosening – have them bite down firmly when putting it in.
Take the time to carefully inspect the mouthguard fitting for any gaps, looseness, misalignment, or other issues that could hamper protection. A securely fitted Shock Doctor mouthguard not only protects teeth, but absorbs hits to reduce concussions.
The Importance of Proper Upper and Lower Jaw Coverage
One often overlooked aspect of mouthguard fitting is making sure both the upper and lower jaws are properly covered. Most youth sports mouthguards focus protection on the upper teeth, but the lower jaw is also vulnerable.
The mandible contains critical nerves, blood vessels, and developing teeth. A sharp blow to the chin can cause a concussion by jarring the brain. Lower jaw fractures are also possible if hit with enough blunt force.
Shock Doctor accounts for lower jaw safety with their Gel Max and Bubble Gum mouthguard models. Both feature a second layer of their proprietary gel liner that extends down, cushioning the lower gums and jawline.
When fitting these double-layer guards, make sure your child’s lower teeth are also leaving impressions in the gel material. You want full encapsulation of both upper and lower arches for maximum impact absorption.
Check the molding around the chin and jaw for any gaps that could leave the bone unprotected. Having kids move their jaw helps set the gel layer impressions. Trim any excess length if needed after molding.
Don’t neglect lower jaw coverage – impacts to the chin and mandible can be just as damaging. Shock Doctor’s innovative gel-lined guards provide uncompromising protection for growing smiles and bones.
Factors like Bite Alignment and Breathing to Consider for Youth Mouthguard Fit
Beyond just teeth impression depth and coverage area, a couple other factors to consider for proper youth mouthguard fitting are bite alignment and breathing impedance.
The guard should feel centered and even when inserted, not pulling teeth out of alignment. Check for any occlusion interference – the indentations made by the upper and lower jaws should match up well. Misaligned molds can make for an uncomfortable fit.
Pay attention to your child’s ability to breathe normally with the guard in during active play. Clenching on mouthguards can sometimes partially obstruct airflow, so monitoring this is key.
An open-face guard like Shock Doctor’s Bubble Gum model may work better for sports requiring heavy exertion. Its lack of anterior coverage prevents constricted breathing. But for collision sports, a complete closed-face guard like the Gel Max provides the most protection despite potentially limiting airflow.
Finding the right balance between protection and playability is key. Make sure to inspect for shifting, discomfort, and occlusal changes indicating suboptimal fit. See how speech and breathing are impaired. Some adjustment and remolding may help dial in the fit.
While a snug fit is crucial, comfort and functionality are also important. Assess bite alignment, breathing impedance, speech, and ergonomics to ensure your child’s mouthguard isn’t just protective but optimized for their sport’s demands.
Picking Closed vs. Open-Face Youth Mouthguard Designs for Different Sports
Selecting the right type of mouthguard design is key for balancing protective coverage with sport performance needs. Closed-face vs. open-face offers different advantages.
Closed-face guards like Shock Doctor’s Gel Max completely enclose the teeth and absorb intense impacts from all directions. The full wrap-around structure offers the most comprehensive protection for high-collision sports like football, hockey, and wrestling.
However, some athletes find the closed-in design inhibits breathing and speech during endurance activities. Open-face guards leave the front teeth exposed for easier talking and airflow.
Sports like basketball, soccer, and boxing involve running but not continuous hardcore body blows. An open-face guard like Shock Doctor’s Bubble Gum model offers a good alternative here, still protecting the vulnerable back molars.
Consider your child’s sport and position. Guards with braces accommodations like Shock Doctor’s Braces model are also great for kids with complex dental work. But for maximum protection from concussions, fractures, and dental injuries, closed-face is ideal for contact sports.
Don’t leave protection to chance. Consult Shock Doctor’s fit guides and sculpt your child’s guard for their sport’s demands. With the right customized closed or open-face youth mouthguard, their developing teeth and head will stay safe.
The Importance of High-Impact Protection from Mouthguards
Properly fitted mouthguards like Shock Doctor’s youth sizes are crucial for providing high-impact protection during collision-heavy sports. They safeguard kids in several key ways.
Firstly, mouthguards cushion direct blows to the teeth and jaw that could cause dental injuries like cracked, displaced, or knocked-out teeth. They provide a protective barrier that absorbs contact forces.
Full enclosure designs also minimize the risk of traumatic head and brain injuries like concussions. By damping tremendous impact forces, less kinetic energy gets transferred to the skull and brain which can prevent dangerous sudden movement.
Guards with chin/jaw coverage add another layer of protection by securing the lower jawbone from fractures. Shock Doctor’s gel-lined guards offer this extra reinforcement.
Well-fitted, custom molded mouthguards are also less likely to dislodge or shift on impact. This prevents teeth taking the full force of a crash or hit. A tighter fit keeps the guard firmly anchored.
Don’t let your child play high-impact sports unprotected. Consult Shock Doctor’s fit guides to ensure their mouthguard provides comprehensive protection. Guard those pearly whites and protect their head with a performance-engineered mouthguard sized just for kids.
Proper Youth Mouthguard Use and Care Tips
Getting the sizing and fit dialed in is crucial, but proper mouthguard use and care is also key to ensuring its protective qualities last. Here are some useful tips:
– Inspect regularly for tears or excessive wear and replace at least annually. Change sooner if damage occurs or fit loosens over time.
– Clean using mild antibacterial soap and cool water after each use. This prevents bacterial buildup and bad odors.
– Store in a firm perforated container to allow air circulation and prevent warping. Don’t just toss in a gym bag.
– Don’t chew or bite down excessively on your mouthguard during play. This can warp the fit and protective impressions.
– Avoid high temperatures when cleaning and storing. Heat can distort the molding.
– Remold using InstaFit if you notice fit loosening over time as teeth shift and grow.
– Don’t share mouthguards among teammates – this spreads germs and bacteria.
With proper care and replacement when needed, a quality Shock Doctor mouthguard provides long-lasting protection so kids can play hard and smile big.
When to Consider Professional Dental Fitting for Youth Mouthguards
While DIY molding using Shock Doctor’s InstaFit system works great for most youth athletes, certain situations may call for a custom professional fitting by a dentist for maximum protection and comfort.
Kids with extensive bridgework, braces, or other complex dental configurations often benefit from an imprint made directly by the dentist. This allows extremely precise molding accounting for orthodontics.
Those playing at very high elite competitive levels in collision-intense sports like football, hockey, and wrestling may also gain an edge from a thorough pro-level custom fit.
However, for most youth rec league athletes, Shock Doctor’s InstaFit guards provide excellent customizable protection at home without special equipment or dental visits needed.
Consider your child’s dental development stage and sport intensity level when deciding on fitting methods. Shock Doctor’s sizing charts help match the right guard shape to your child’s needs if orthodontics are involved.
While professional fitting has advantages in some situations, Shock Doctor’s DIY guards are ideal for most kids. The InstaFit system allows easy customization at home for a comfortable, protective fit.
Understanding Shock Doctor’s Sizing Charts for Proper Youth Mouthguard Fit
Picking the right sized mouthguard is crucial for safety and comfort. Shock Doctor provides detailed sizing charts to help you select the optimal model for your child’s age and dental development stage.
Their “toddler” size fits young kids ages 3-5 who still have a mix of baby and permanent teeth coming in. The soft laminated design cushions impacts.
The standard “youth” size works best for most ages 6-12 as they transition to a full adult set of teeth. This accommodates their growing jaws.
For teens 13+ with mature dentition, the “braces” model provides a comfortable orthodontic fit as wisdom teeth emerge.
Shock Doctor also categorizes by weight, with their Gel Max guard working for ages 6+ up to 130 lbs. The Bubble Gum model fits kids 70-150 lbs.
Considering age, size, dental stage, and sports needs allows selecting the guard with the right dimensions. Then utilize InstaFit molding to achieve a fully customized youth fit.
Consult Shock Doctor’s detailed sizing guides on their website or packaging. An accurately sized mouthguard improves protection and performance.
Ensuring Proper Youth Mouthguard Fit As Permanent Teeth Emerge
One youth mouthguard fitting challenge is accommodating the rapid oral development as adult teeth come in. Proper sizing adjustments help maintain protective fit.
Younger kids with a mix of baby and permanent teeth need soft guards that cushion emerging teeth. Shock Doctor’s toddler and youth sizes work well here.
Around ages 6-12, adult incisors and molars are growing in. Fitting for the shifting position and size of these new teeth is crucial.
Utilizing Shock Doctor’s remoldable InstaFit boil-free technology allows recustomizing the guard as needed around erupting teeth.
For teens 13+ with most adult teeth present, an orthodontic design like Shock Doctor’s Braces guard suits the mature dentition while accommodating wisdom teeth.
Ongoing size assessment as permanent teeth emerge prevents slippage and gaps that reduce protection. A snug fit around the changing tooth and jaw position is key.
With Shock Doctor’s range of youth sizes and InstaFit remolding, you can adapt mouthguard fit seamlessly as your child’s adult teeth come in for injury-free play.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard Color for Your Child’s Team
Beyond fit and protection, customizing a Shock Doctor youth mouthguard with your child’s favorite colors adds fun while showing team spirit!
Shock Doctor offers their Gel Max and Bubble Gum guard models in a variety of vibrant color options sure to get kids excited.
Choose their favorite hue or coordinate with team uniform colors. Having your child participate in picking makes them more eager to wear it.
For organized sports like football, soccer, and hockey, matching team colors shows spirit. Positions like goalie or quarterback warrant standing out.
Don’t just go with what’s in stock – check Shock Doctor’s full color selection online to find the perfect shade. They’re constantly expanding options.
Alternate between colors as the seasons and their activities change to keep things fun and fresh. Shock Doctor’s durable InstaFit guards hold up to repeated remolding.
Add personal flair while protecting those pearly whites! With customizable boil-and-bite fitting and cool colors, Shock Doctor youth mouthguards keep smiles safer in style.
Choosing the Optimal Youth Mouthguard Thickness for Your Child’s Sport
Mouthguard thickness is an important factor affecting protection level and comfort. Consider your child’s sport intensity when selecting thickness.
Thinner, low-profile designs like Shock Doctor’s 1.5mm Gel Max model allow for easier breathing, communication, and drink access. But they provide less impact cushioning.
Moderate 3mm guards like their Bubble Gum model offer a balance of protection and playability. This mid-range thickness works well for many youth sports.
Maximum-coverage 4mm pro-style guards offer superb protection but can feel bulky. These are ideal for high-impact collision sports like football, boxing, and hockey.
Assess your child’s sport and position – more aggressive contact warrants greater thickness for dissipating blows. Skill positions may favor thinner for performance.
Kids should test different thicknesses to find what feels best. While thin can improve comfort, ensure adequacy for hard hits and dental coverage.
With Shock Doctor’s range of material thicknesses, you can select the ideal balance of protection, playability and comfort for your young athlete’s sport and needs.