Mouth Guards

Custom-fitted mouth guards protect your child's teeth, lips, and jaw during sports and physical activities.

Protecting Young Smiles During Sports

Dental injuries are among the most common injuries in sports. A properly fitted mouth guard is one of the most effective ways to protect your child's teeth, lips, tongue, and jaw from impact during athletic activities. Whether your child plays hockey, football, basketball, soccer, or martial arts, a mouth guard is essential equipment.

At All Smiles Dental Care, we create custom-fitted mouth guards that offer superior protection and comfort compared to store-bought options.

Why Custom Mouth Guards?

While store-bought mouth guards are available, custom-fitted mouth guards from your dentist provide significant advantages:

  • Superior fit — made from impressions of your child's teeth for a precise, comfortable fit
  • Better protection — thicker in areas that need it most, providing optimal shock absorption
  • Easier to breathe and speak — won't slip or interfere with breathing during activity
  • More comfortable — children are more likely to wear a guard that fits well
  • Durable — made from high-quality materials that withstand the demands of sports
  • Custom colours and designs — makes wearing a mouth guard fun

Types of Mouth Guards

There are three main types of mouth guards:

  • Custom-fitted (recommended) — made by your dentist from exact impressions of your child's teeth. Offers the best fit, protection, and comfort.
  • Boil-and-bite — available at sporting goods stores. Softened in hot water and shaped around the teeth. Provides moderate protection but an imprecise fit.
  • Stock mouth guards — pre-formed and ready to wear. Least expensive but offer the least protection and the poorest fit.

Caring for a Mouth Guard

Proper care extends the life of your child's mouth guard and keeps it hygienic:

  • Rinse with cool water or mouthwash before and after each use
  • Clean with a toothbrush and toothpaste regularly
  • Store in a ventilated case to allow air circulation
  • Keep away from heat and direct sunlight to prevent warping
  • Replace when it becomes worn, damaged, or no longer fits properly
  • Bring it to dental appointments so your dentist can check the fit

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should my child start wearing a mouth guard?

A child should wear a mouth guard whenever they participate in any sport where there is a risk of contact to the face. This includes team sports, individual activities like skateboarding or cycling, and any recreational activity with a fall risk.

How often does a mouth guard need to be replaced?

Children's mouths change quickly as they grow. A custom mouth guard should be checked at each dental visit and may need to be replaced annually or whenever your child's dental structure changes significantly.

Book an Appointment

Ready to learn more? Contact our team to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you achieve a healthier smile.

Mon-Sat appointments available

Ready to Get Started?

Our friendly team is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your consultation at All Smiles Dental Care.