How to Choose a Comfortable Sports Mouthguard for Your Child
When your child plays contact sports, a sports mouthguard isn’t just an accessory—it’s essential protection.
Whether they’re into footy, basketball, hockey, or martial arts, their smile is at risk whenever they hit the field or court.
A well-fitted mouthguard can prevent chipped teeth, soft tissue injuries, and jaw fractures. But let’s be honest—getting a child to wear a mouthguard is another challenge.
If it’s bulky, uncomfortable, or makes breathing difficult, it will likely spend more time in their sports bag than in their mouth.
So, how do you find a sports mouthguard that’s comfortable enough for your child to wear? Here’s what you need to consider.
#1. Prioritise a Custom Fit
Not all mouthguards are created equal. While you might be tempted to grab a cheap one off the shelf, these one-size-fits-all versions rarely provide the comfort or protection your child needs. Custom-made mouthguards, designed by Leichhardt’s dentist, offer a snug and secure fit tailored to your child’s teeth.
Unlike store-bought options, they stay in place without your child having to constantly adjust them, allowing them to focus on their game.
#2. Consider Comfort and Breathability
If a mouthguard is too bulky, it can feel like a chore. Many children struggle with mouthguards that are too thick, making it hard to breathe and talk.
Look for one that strikes the right balance between protection and comfort—thick enough to absorb impact but not so thick that it interferes with breathing or communication. A well-designed mouthguard should allow your child to drink water, play, and breathe easily during play.
#3. Choose the Right Material
Mouthguards are made of different materials with varying levels of durability and flexibility. EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) is commonly used because it offers shock absorption while still comfortable.
If your child has braces, they’ll need a mouthguard made from a unique material that allows for adjustments as their teeth move.
#4. Don’t Rely on Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards
Boil-and-bite mouthguards, which soften in hot water so they can be shaped around the teeth, are a step up from generic options but still don’t match the protection of a custom-fit mouthguard.
Over time, they can lose shape, meaning less protection and less comfort. They may also become loose, causing distractions or making it easier to fall out during play.
#5. Look for Adequate Thickness
The thickness of a mouthguard matters, especially in high-contact sports. A good sports mouthguard should be at least 3mm thick in the impact areas (like over the front teeth and jaw) to provide adequate shock absorption.
However, it shouldn’t be so thick that it restricts speech or breathing.
#6. Check for Easy Maintenance
Kids aren’t always the best at keeping track of their gear, so choose a mouthguard that’s easy to clean and maintain.
A good mouthguard should be rinsed after every use and stored in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria buildup.
Some custom mouthguards come with antimicrobial properties, adding an extra layer of hygiene.
#7. Consider Your Child’s Preferences
Children are more likely to wear something if they like it. Many custom mouthguards come in different colours and designs, so let your child choose one they’re excited about.
A personalised mouthguard makes them feel more involved and reduces their likelihood of ” forgetting” to wear it on game day.
#8. Replace When Necessary
A mouthguard isn’t a once-in-a-lifetime purchase. Your child’s teeth and jaw will change as they grow, and a mouthguard that fits perfectly one season might be too tight or loose the next.
Regularly check the fit and replace it if there are wear indicators, it becomes uncomfortable, or it no longer provides the same level of protection.
#9. Seek Professional Advice
If you’re unsure which mouthguard is best, consult your Leichhardt dentist. A dentist can assess your child’s mouth, recommend the best fit, and even create a custom mouthguard that offers superior protection and comfort.
This is especially important if your child has braces, as a poorly fitted mouthguard can damage orthodontic work.
#10. Make It a Habit
Finally, even the best mouthguard is useless if your child doesn’t wear it. Encourage good habits by making it part of their pre-game routine.
Just as they wouldn’t step onto the field without their boots or helmets, they shouldn’t play without their sports mouthguards.
Sports Mouthguards in Leichhardt
Protect their smile this footy season and beyond!
Your child’s smile is worth protecting; the right sports mouthguard can make all the difference. A custom-fitted option ensures comfort, better breathing, and maximum protection so your child can play hard without worrying about dental injuries.
Book an appointment today if you’re ready to get a mouthguard that keeps your child’s teeth safe. Let’s ensure their biggest win this season is keeping their smile intact!
Call us on (02) 9171 0840 or visit us at Shop 48, Leichhardt Marketplace Shopping Centre, 122-138 Flood Street in Leichhardt.