Footy season is here, and your child is ready to hit the field. But did you know that a single accidental collision could lead to a chipped, cracked, or even knocked-out tooth? For parents in Mount Lawley and surrounding suburbs, protecting your child’s smile during sports is easier than you think.
A properly fitted sports mouthguard can help safeguard teeth, gums, and jaws — giving young athletes the confidence to play hard without risking their smile. Whether your child plays Australian rules football, rugby, basketball, or hockey, this guide explains why a mouthguard is essential and how to choose the right one.
Why Dental Injuries Are Common in Kids’ Sports
Children’s sports often involve fast movement, physical contact, and accidental collisions. Even a minor impact can damage teeth or soft tissues.
Common sports-related dental injuries include:
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Cuts to the lips or gums
- Jaw injuries
Using a kids mouthguard Mount Lawley is one of the simplest ways to prevent these injuries before they happen.
What Is a Sports Mouthguard?
A sports mouthguard is a protective appliance worn over the teeth during sports. It cushions impacts to the teeth, jaw, and surrounding tissues, reducing the likelihood of injury.
Key benefits of a well-fitted mouthguard:
-
- Absorbs shock from collisions
- Helps prevent chips, cracks, or knocked-out teeth
- Protects soft tissues like lips and gums
- Supports the jaw during impacts
For children who play sports regularly, a mouthguard should be part of their standard protective equipment — just like helmets or shin pads.
Types of Mouthguards for Kids
Not all mouthguards offer the same level of protection. There are generally three types available.
1. Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
Made by a dentist using impressions or digital scans, these are tailored to your child’s teeth for the best fit and comfort.
Benefits:
- Comfortable and secure
- Easier to breathe and speak
- Reliable protection during sport
2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Available at sporting stores, these are softened in hot water and shaped at home.
Pros: More affordable, adjustable at home
Cons: May not fit as precisely, less stable
3. Stock Mouthguards
These mouthguards are pre-shaped and provide minimal customisation compared to other types.
Cons: Often bulky and uncomfortable, may not stay in place.
Why a Proper Fit Matters for Kids
Children are more likely to wear a mouthguard consistently if it fits well. Poorly fitted mouthguards can:
- Move during play
- Make breathing difficult
- Fall out easily
- Feel uncomfortable
A properly fitted mouthguard stays in place, allowing your child to speak and breathe normally.
Sports Where Mouthguards Are Recommended
Many parents associate mouthguards only with boxing or rugby, but injuries can happen in many sports:
- Australian rules football
- Rugby
- Hockey
- Basketball
- Netball
- Martial arts
- Skateboarding or BMX
Even in sports with less contact, collisions can occur, so mouthguards are a wise precaution.
Signs Your Child Needs a New Mouthguard
Because children’s teeth and jaws are still growing, mouthguards may need to be replaced over time.
You may need a new mouthguard if:
- Teeth have shifted or grown
- The mouthguard feels loose
- It shows wear or damage
- Your child has had recent dental treatment
Your dentist can check the fit during routine visits.
Caring for a Sports Mouthguard
To keep a mouthguard clean and effective:
- Rinse with cold water after each use
- Brush gently with a toothbrush
- Store in a ventilated container
- Avoid leaving it in hot areas, like cars
Regular dental visits are also an ideal opportunity to check the fit.
FAQs
Do children really need a sports mouthguard for footy?
Yes. Contact sports such as football increase the risk of dental injuries, including chips or knocked-out teeth. Mouthguards help reduce this risk.
At what age should children start wearing a mouthguard?
Children should begin wearing a mouthguard when they start participating in contact or high-impact sports. Even younger players can benefit during training and games.
Are custom mouthguards better than store-bought ones?
Custom mouthguards are shaped specifically to the child’s teeth, making the fit more comfortable and secure, which helps them stay in place during sport.
How often should a child’s mouthguard be replaced?
Mouthguards may need to be replaced as teeth grow or if the guard shows wear. Your dentist can advise during regular dental check-ups.
Sports Mouthguards in Mount Lawley
A properly fitted kids’ sports mouthguard is an essential part of your child’s sports gear. Chelmsford Dental Mount Lawley provides custom sports mouthguards for children involved in contact and high-impact sports.
Families from Mount Lawley, Highgate, Inglewood, Maylands, Menora, and Perth CBD are welcome to arrange a consultation.
Call (08) 6146 2555 or book online to arrange an appointment. Our clinic is located at 2 Chelmsford Road, Mount Lawley WA.
