Mouthguards are recommended for any sport or activity where there’s a risk of impact to the face or mouth. This includes contact sports like football, hockey, lacrosse, and soccer, as well as activities like basketball, gymnastics, skateboarding, and martial arts. Even if a sport isn’t full-contact, accidents can still happen, so a properly fitted mouthguard from a family dentist can help protect your child’s teeth and jaw from injury.

Yes, properly fitted mouthguards protect  the top and bottom teeth. They cushion the impact from falls, collisions, or hits to help prevent chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth. Mouthguards also protect the gums, lips, and jaw from injury. A custom mouthguard will provide the best coverage and comfort during sports or active play.

Mouthguards from a dentist usually last about one to five years, depending on your child’s age, how often they play sports, and how well the mouthguard is cared for. Kids who are still growing may need a new mouthguard more often to ensure a proper fit. Regularly checking for cracks, tears, or loose spots and keeping the mouthguard clean will help it last longer. Your children’s dentist can tell you exactly when you should replace it,

Cleaning a sports mouthguard is easy and important to keep it free from bacteria and odors. Rinse the mouthguard with cool water after every use and gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and no toothpaste. Once a week, soak it in a denture or mouthguard cleaning solution for a deeper clean. Always let it air dry completely before storing it in a ventilated case. Proper care from the start helps the mouthguard last longer and keeps your mouth healthy.