At Elite Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we know your child’s smile is priceless—and protecting it is part of keeping them healthy and confident. Sports-related mouth and jaw injuries are among the most common for young athletes, and many of these can be prevented with a simple piece of equipment: a mouthguard. Whether your child plays basketball, soccer, football, hockey, or even skateboards or skis, wearing a mouthguard helps prevent serious dental trauma. The American Dental Association recommends mouthguards for children participating in all contact and high-impact sports.
Why a Custom Mouthguard Makes a Difference
While there are store-bought options available, a custom-made mouthguard offers the best protection, comfort, and fit. There are three main types of mouthguards: pre-made, “boil-and-bite,” and custom. Pre-made guards are inexpensive but rarely fit well. Boil-and-bite types are better but can still feel bulky or slip during play. Custom mouthguards, however, are designed specifically for your child’s teeth and bite, ensuring the most secure and comfortable protection possible.
A custom mouthguard from Elite Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is made from durable, high-quality materials that are easy to clean, tear-resistant, and allow for proper breathing and speaking. If your child wears braces or a retainer, a custom design is especially important—it can prevent damage to both their teeth and orthodontic appliances while allowing for continued alignment progress.
Caring for Your Child’s Mouthguard
Once your child has their custom mouthguard, taking good care of it will make it last longer and continue to offer reliable protection. Encourage your child to rinse and gently brush the mouthguard after every use and store it in a ventilated protective case. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or hot environments, as heat can warp its shape.
Mouthguards should be replaced at the start of every sports season or sooner if they become worn or no longer fit properly. If your child chews on their guard or if it shows signs of wear, it’s time for a replacement. Bringing the mouthguard to regular dental checkups also allows our team to make sure it still provides a proper fit and maximum protection.
Play Smart, Smile Bright
A healthy, confident smile should never be at risk on the field or in the gym. Custom mouthguards offer peace of mind for both parents and young athletes, preventing injuries that can lead to costly and painful dental treatments down the line. To learn more about custom mouthguards or to have one made for your child, schedule an appointment with Elite Smiles Pediatric Dentistry today. We proudly serve families in Atlanta and Chastain Park, helping every child play hard and smile bright.
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