Why Every Young Athlete Needs a Custom Mouthguard

Summer sports are in full swing, and a mouthguard is the simplest way to protect your child’s smile on the field. But not all mouthguards are equal. At Ironwood Children’s Dentistry in Queen Creek, our pediatric dentists make the case for going custom — here’s why it’s worth it.

Why Mouthguards Matter for Kids

Dental injuries are among the most common sports injuries in children. A mouthguard cushions and spreads the force of a blow, protecting the teeth, lips, tongue, and jaw. And unlike a scraped knee, a damaged permanent tooth doesn’t grow back — so prevention is worth every bit of effort.

Custom vs. Store-Bought

Why Custom Wins

• Made from a precise mold of your child’s teeth, so it fits exactly.
• Comfortable enough to talk and breathe — so it actually gets worn.
• Stays securely in place during play.
• Built to last and sized for a growing mouth.

The biggest advantage is simple: a guard your child finds comfortable is a guard they’ll keep in — and one that’s in the mouth is the only one that protects.

Which Activities Need One?

Any sport with contact, falls, or flying objects — baseball, basketball, soccer, football, martial arts — plus wheeled activities like skateboarding, scootering, and BMX. If your child wears braces, a guard matters even more to protect both the teeth and the hardware.

Caring for a Custom Guard

• Rinse before and after use; brush it gently.
• Store it in a ventilated case, out of hot cars.
• Bring it to checkups so we can check the fit as your child grows.
• Replace it if it becomes loose, worn, or no longer fits.

Visit Ironwood Children’s Dentistry in Queen Creek

Before summer leagues hit full swing, our pediatric dental practice in Queen Creek can fit your young athlete for a custom mouthguard — comfortable, protective, and made to fit. We care for children from 9 months through age 18 (special needs to 26) and accept AHCCCS and most plans. Contact our office to schedule a fitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my child need a custom mouthguard?

A custom mouthguard fits exactly, is more comfortable, and protects more reliably than stock or boil-and-bite guards — so your child is far more likely to actually wear it during play.

Is a custom mouthguard better than a store-bought one?

Yes. It offers the best fit, comfort, and protection. Boil-and-bite guards are a moderate option, while stock guards are bulky and least secure.

What sports need a mouthguard?

Any with contact, falls, or flying objects — baseball, basketball, soccer, football, martial arts — plus wheeled activities like skateboarding, scootering, and biking.

Can my child wear a mouthguard with braces?

Yes, and they should. A mouthguard protects both the teeth and the braces. Ask us about options designed for kids in orthodontic treatment.

How do I take care of a custom mouthguard?

Rinse and gently brush it after use, store it in a ventilated case out of hot cars, bring it to checkups, and replace it when it becomes loose or worn.