Peaceful Nights and Healthy Smiles: Mouthguards for Kids

Get custom mouthguards at Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry in Frisco, TX

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When you hear the word “mouthguard,” you might picture kids gearing up for football or hockey.

But did you know that mouthguards are not just for sports? They can protect your child’s teeth while they sleep, especially if your child grinds their teeth at night.

In this blog, we will discuss the different types of mouthguards available for kids, how to choose the best fit, and why custom mouthguards are a great investment in your child’s oral health.

Sports mouthguards protect your child’s teeth and mouth while playing sports. A night guard (occlusal guard) protects your child’s teeth from excessive wear caused by teeth grinding (bruxism). A custom mouthguard is made from an impression of your teeth. It is unique to your tooth and mouth structure.

Mouthguards for Sports

Any child participating in sports should wear a mouthguard. They prevent injuries such as broken or chipped teeth, tooth loss, jaw fractures and cutting of the tongue, lips or cheeks. 

Types of Sports Mouthguards

1. Stock Mouthguards

These are pre-made, ready-to-use options found in most stores.

• Pros: Affordable and easily available.
• Cons: Often bulky and uncomfortable, offering minimal protection.

2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

These provide a semi-custom fit after being softened in hot water and molded to your child’s teeth.

• Pros: Better fit than stock options.
• Cons: Limited durability and not suitable for intense grinding or heavy sports use.

3. Custom Mouthguards

Custom mouthguards are made by a dentist to fit your child’s teeth perfectly.

• Pros: Superior fit, maximum protection, and comfort.
• Cons: Higher initial cost, but a long-term investment in dental health.

How to Choose the Right Mouthguard

Here are a few things to look for when purchasing a mouthguard.

• Comfort and fit: A proper fit ensures your child will actually wear the mouthguard. Ill-fitting mouthguards can cause discomfort or even lead to oral injuries.
• Level of protection: For contact sports, opt for high-quality materials offering maximum protection. For grinding teeth at night, a custom night guard is often the best solution.
• Durability: Custom-fitted options last longer, making them a cost-effective choice over time.

How Should a Mouthguard Fit?

An effective mouthguard should:

1. Cover all upper teeth without extending too far into the gums.
2. Stay securely in place without frequent adjustments.
3. Be easy for your child to breathe and speak while wearing.

If the mouthguard feels too tight, too loose, or causes irritation, it is time to replace or refit it.

Safety Considerations and Proper Use

Ensure your child uses their mouthguard correctly to prevent dental emergencies and prolong its lifespan.

• Clean regularly: Rinse the mouthguard in cool water after use and clean it with mild soap.
• Store properly: Use a ventilated case to keep the mouthguard hygienic and free from damage.
• Replace when needed: Signs of wear, a poor fit, or discoloration mean it is time for a new mouthguard.

Night Guards (Occlusal Guards)

Night guards serve a different purpose than sports guards. 

If your child grinds their teeth at night, an occlusal guard will protect their teeth from excessive wear. 

Without this protection, grinding can wear down the enamel—the outer layer of the teeth—which is critical for preventing cavities and tooth sensitivity. Once enamel is lost, it cannot regenerate, leading to increased risk of decay, pain, and long-term damage to your child’s teeth.

Benefits of Night Guards

Night guards are a simple yet effective solution for children who grind their teeth at night (a condition called bruxism).

• Reduces enamel wear and tooth sensitivity.
• Prevents jaw pain and headaches caused by grinding.
• Promotes better sleep for both your child and the rest of the family.

Why Choose a Custom Mouthguard?

A custom mouthguard offers a level of protection and comfort that over-the-counter options simply can’t match. 

Designed specifically for your child’s unique dental structure, these mouthguards provide:

• Custom-fit design for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
• Protects teeth from damage caused by nighttime grinding or clenching.
• Durable solution that helps maintain your child’s oral health over time.

Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry: Your Pediatric Dentist in Frisco, TX

Protecting your child’s teeth is what we do! From preventative dental care like cleanings and fluoride treatments to custom mouthguards, we are dedicated to keeping your child’s smile healthy and strong. 

Several factors are used in determining the suitability of nightguard use for children, including the cause of the wear, cause of sleep issues, and the age of the child. Seeing one of our Pediatric Dentists for a consult will give you information to fit your child’s specific needs.

To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Frisco, TX, or to inquire about ordering a custom mouthguard, call (214) 618-5200 or complete the online contact form. If you are in the area, stop in and say hello! We are located at 6801 Warren Parkway, Suite 115, Frisco, TX 75034.

FAQs About Night Mouthguards for Kids