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As parents, we all want our kids to be active, healthy, and safe. Sports are a wonderful way for children to build confidence, learn teamwork, and stay fit. But with all the fun also comes a higher risk of accidents, especially to the mouth and teeth. A single hit to the face can cause broken teeth, injuries to the gums, or even jaw damage. That’s why using a sports mouthguard is so important. At MVP Smiles, we often remind parents that protecting a child’s smile is just as important as protecting their head with a helmet.

What Is a Sports Mouthguard?

A sports mouthguard is a small device worn over the teeth to absorb shock during physical activity. It acts like a cushion to protect the teeth, gums, and jaw from sudden impact. Kids who play soccer, basketball, baseball, football, or even skateboarding can all benefit from wearing one.

The Importance of Mouthguards

Mouthguards are more than just an extra piece of equipment. They’re one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent dental injuries. Without one, a single fall or collision could mean broken teeth, lip injuries, or even an emergency trip to the dentist. Wearing a sports guard helps protect not only the teeth but also the soft tissues in the mouth and the jaw joint. For children who wear braces, it also keeps wires and brackets from cutting the inside of their mouth. By making a mouthguard part of your child’s regular sports gear, you give them the confidence to play hard without worrying about harming their smile.

Types of Sports Guards

When it comes to mouthguards, not every option provides the same comfort or protection. Here are the most common types you’ll find:

• Stock mouthguards – These are ready-made and sold in stores. They are affordable, but your child may find them bulky and hard to wear.
• Boil-and-bite guards – These soften in hot water and can be shaped at home. They fit better than stock guards, but they still may not provide the best protection.
• Custom mouth guards – These are designed by a dentist to fit your child’s teeth perfectly. They are the most comfortable, durable, and effective choice.

Why Choose a Custom Mouth Guard?

Parents often ask why they should spend more on a custom option. The answer is simple: it gives your child the best protection and comfort. With a custom mouth guard, you can expect:

• A secure fit – Your child’s guard won’t slip or move around during sports.
• Easy breathing and speaking – They’ll be able to focus on the game instead of the guard.
• Extra safety – It helps protect not just teeth, but also braces, gums, and jaws.
• Better durability – You don’t have to replace it as often as store-bought versions.

Think of it as an investment in your child’s dental health and future smile.

How to Choose the Right Mouthguard

Picking the right mouthguard can feel tricky, but a few key things can guide you. Here’s what you should look for:

• Comfort – Your child should feel good wearing it; otherwise, they won’t keep it in.
• Strength – It should be tough enough for the type of sport they play.
• Growth-friendly – If your child is still growing, expect to replace it more often.
• Professional advice – A pediatric dentist in Gaithersburg MD or your nearby location can help make sure you choose the right one.

Caring for a Sports Mouthguard

A sports guard only works well if it’s kept clean and in good shape. Show your child these simple habits to care for theirs:

• Rinse it – They should rinse it with cool water before and after each use.
• Clean it – You can use a toothbrush and mild soap to keep it fresh.
• Store it safely – A sturdy case keeps it clean and prevents damage.
• Avoid heat – Remind your child not to leave it in hot places, since heat can warp the guard.

These little steps help the guard last longer and keep it safe to use.

When to Replace a Mouthguard

Even a strong mouthguard doesn’t last forever. You’ll know it’s time for a new one when:

• It feels loose – If it no longer fits snugly, it won’t protect your child well.
• It has damage – Cracks or tears mean it’s unsafe to use.
• Your child’s mouth has changed – Growing kids or those with new dental work will need an updated fit.
• A new season begins – Many parents replace guards yearly, especially for contact-heavy sports.

By keeping an eye on these signs, you’ll make sure your child always has the protection they need.

Building Healthy Habits

Getting kids to use a mouthguard regularly is all about habits. Just as they learn to wear a helmet or buckle a seatbelt, they can learn that their sports guard is part of their uniform. When they know it’s protecting their smile, they’ll be more willing to use it every time they play. At MVP Smiles, we love helping families set up these healthy routines.

Final Thoughts

Sports are an important part of childhood, but they don’t have to put your child’s smile at risk. A custom mouth guard gives them the best protection, comfort, and peace of mind. With the right care and timely replacements, you can make sure their teeth stay safe through every season.

At MVP Smiles, our team is here to help parents choose the best sports guards for their children. Protecting your child’s smile today means they’ll keep enjoying sports and their bright, healthy smile for years to come.

For more information about mouthguards or to book a consultation, call MVP Smiles at (301) 977-2200 or schedule an appointment online today.