Back-to-School Means Back to Sports—Don’t Forget the Mouthguard!
Fall is in the air, backpacks are packed, and school sports are kicking off. But while you’re checking off supplies and uniforms, you might forget one piece of gear—a mouthguard.
If your child plays sports (especially with braces), a mouthguard isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. One stray elbow, ball, or fall can lead to chipped teeth, bleeding lips, and bent wires. And trust us—no one wants to spend their weekend in an emergency dental visit.
At Artistic Dentistry in Houston, we help protect your child’s smile while they enjoy the sport they love.
Why Mouthguards Matter—Even in “Low-Contact” Sports
You might think mouthguards are only for football or hockey. But even sports like basketball, soccer, baseball, volleyball, and cheer come with risk. All it takes is one accidental bump to the face for your child’s season (and smile) to take a hit.
Mouthguards help prevent:
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Lip and cheek injuries
- Bent or broken orthodontic wires
- Jaw trauma and concussion risk
That protection is even more critical for kids with braces. Without a buffer, the metal can cause severe soft tissue damage.
What Kind of Mouthguard Does Your Child Need?
There are three main types of sports mouthguards:
1. Instant Fit (Ready-to-Wear)
- Pre-formed, no customization
- Least expensive
- Not always an excellent fit for braces
2. Boil and Bite
- Softened in hot water, then molded to teeth
- Better fit; some can be re-boiled as teeth shift
- Good middle-ground option for kids in braces
3. Custom Mouthguards (Made by a Dentist)
- Created using dental impressions for a perfect fit
- Most comfortable and durable
- Can be made for upper, lower, or both arches
- Often covered by dental insurance
A custom sports mouthguard offers the best protection if your child plays a contact sport like football, lacrosse, or martial arts. It may need to be remade periodically as their braces or teeth change, but the comfort and coverage are worth it.
How to Care for a Sports Mouthguard
A mouthguard only protects your child if it’s clean and bacteria-free. Help them build good habits by following these simple steps after every game or practice:
- Brush the mouthguard with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste
- Rinse thoroughly with water
- Clean the case, then let both air dry before storing
- Never leave it wet in a bag—that’s how bacteria and mold grow
Please encourage your child to keep their mouthguard with their gear so it’s always ready for action.
Ask Your Dentist or Orthodontist for Guidance
Every mouth is different—and so is every smile. If you’re unsure which type of mouthguard is best for your child or teen, our team at Artistic Dentistry can help. We’ll consider their activity level, dental work, and comfort to recommend the safest option.
Keep Their Smile in the Game
Your child works hard on the field, court, or mat—don’t let one unlucky hit undo that. A well-fitting mouthguard protects more than teeth—it helps prevent injuries, reduces time off the field, and keeps their confidence high.
Want to get your child fitted for a custom sports mouthguard in Houston?
Schedule an appointment with Artistic Dentistry today.
