As the warm weather returns, more kids and teens are heading to the fields and courts for baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, tennis, and track. While sports are a great way to stay active and build confidence, they also come with a risk of injury.
One of the most common — and most preventable — injuries in youth sports involves the face and teeth. In fact, the American Dental Association reports that up to one in five sports-related injuries affect the mouth, jaw, or teeth. That’s where a properly fitted and custom mouthguard makes all the difference.
The Risk of Dental Injuries
A chipped or broken tooth may not sound serious, but it can be painful, costly to repair, and even affect long-term oral health. Beyond teeth, impacts to the mouth can cause jaw injuries and contribute to concussions. Having the right mouthguard helps cushion these blows and protects your athlete every time they play.
Types of Sports Mouthguards
Not all mouthguards are created equal. Here’s what parents and athletes should know:
Stock Mouthguards
- Sold in most sporting goods stores in small, medium, and large sizes.
- Inexpensive but not designed to fit your child’s unique bite.
- Can make breathing and speaking difficult, and often only stay in place when the mouth is closed.
“Boil-and-Bite” Mouthguards
- Available in sporting goods stores and molded at home by softening in hot water before biting down.
- Offer a better fit than stock guards but may not work well with braces.
- Tend to wear out quickly and often need to be removed for clear speech.
Custom Mouthguards
- Made by your dentist from a full-mouth impression and fabricated in a dental lab.
- Provide the best fit, durability, and protection.
- Allow athletes to breathe and speak normally while offering cushioning for both teeth and jaw.
- Often longer lasting and more comfortable than store-bought options.
More Than Tooth Protection
Custom mouthguards don’t just help prevent chipped teeth — they can also reduce the risk of more serious injuries. Research from the Academy of General Dentistry shows that custom-fit guards absorb shock, stabilize the head and neck, and limit movement from direct impacts to the jaw. This added layer of protection may help reduce concussion risk.
Don’t Forget Practice
Sports injuries aren’t limited to game day. They can happen anytime, including practices and scrimmages. A mouthguard should be part of your athlete’s regular gear, just like cleats or shin guards.
Make Mouthguards a Priority
Parents, talk to your kids about the importance of wearing a mouthguard every time they play. Coaches can also set the tone by encouraging athletes to treat mouthguards as essential equipment.
At Shorewood Family Dental Care, we create custom-made athletic mouthguards designed for comfort, durability, and maximum protection. Call us today to schedule an appointment and keep your athlete’s smile safe all season long.
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Originally published April 2, 2019. Updated June 18, 2025.
