At London Dental Specialists, we understand parents' concerns about protecting young athletes from sports injuries. Our custom sports guards offer superior protection for teeth, lips, and dental work during physical activities. Many parents ask about proper fit, types of guards available, and overall safety. Below are answers to common questions about sports guards for young athletes. Our team is committed to providing comfortable, effective protection tailored to your child's specific needs, whether they wear braces or have other dental considerations. A properly fitted sports guard is an essential piece of equipment for any young athlete.
What is a sports guard and why does my child need one?
A sports guard, also known as a mouthguard, is a protective device worn over the teeth to prevent dental injuries during sports activities. Your child needs a sports guard because it protects against broken teeth, cut lips, and other damage to the mouth. Sports guards are essential for young athletes participating in contact sports like rugby, hockey, and football, as well as non-contact activities where falls are common, such as gymnastics and skateboarding. At London Dental Specialists, we recommend sports guards for all young athletes to ensure their dental health remains protected during physical activities.
What types of sports guards are available for young athletes?
There are three main types of sports guards available for young athletes:
- Ready-made or stock mouthguards: Pre-formed guards available in sporting goods stores. These offer minimal protection and cannot be adjusted to fit properly.
- Mouth-formed \"boil and bite\" mouthguards: These are softened in hot water and then bitten into to create a somewhat customised fit. They offer better protection than stock guards but still lack the precise fit of custom options.
- Custom-made mouthguards: Created by dentists using precise impressions of your child's teeth. These provide the best fit, comfort, and protection. At London Dental Specialists, we specialise in creating high-quality custom sports guards for young athletes.
How should a sports guard fit my child's mouth?
A properly fitted sports guard should fit snugly against your child's upper teeth without requiring them to bite or clench to keep it in place. The guard should not fall out or shift when your child speaks or moves their mouth. It should cover all the teeth to the back molars and extend slightly onto the gums. If your child has to bite down to keep the mouthguard in position, it does not fit properly. At London Dental Specialists, our custom-made sports guards are designed to provide a precise fit for optimal protection and comfort, allowing your child to breathe and speak normally while wearing it.
Are sports guards safe for children with braces?
Yes, sports guards are not only safe but essential for children with braces. A properly fitted sports guard protects both the braces and teeth from damage during sports activities. For children with braces or fixed dental appliances (such as bridges) on the lower jaw, our dentists at London Dental Specialists may recommend a special type of mouthguard designed specifically to accommodate orthodontic appliances. These guards provide extra space for braces and help prevent injuries to the lips and cheeks that might otherwise be caused by the braces during impact.
How long do sports guards last?
With proper care and regular check-ups, a custom-made sports guard from London Dental Specialists can last 1-2 years for young athletes. However, as children grow and their mouths develop, the fit of the guard may change. We recommend having your child's sports guard evaluated every 6 months during regular dental check-ups to ensure it still provides optimal protection. For children with rapidly changing dentition or those undergoing orthodontic treatment, more frequent replacements may be necessary to maintain proper fit and protection.
How should my child clean and store their sports guard?
Proper cleaning and storage of a sports guard is essential for hygiene and longevity. Your child should:
- Rinse the guard with cool water or mouthwash before and after each use
- Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste
- Store it in a ventilated plastic case when not in use
- Keep it away from high temperatures that could warp the material
- Bring it to dental appointments for professional cleaning and evaluation
At London Dental Specialists, we provide detailed care instructions with each custom sports guard to ensure it remains clean, effective, and long-lasting.
Can my child wear the same sports guard for different sports?
Yes, a high-quality custom-made sports guard from London Dental Specialists can be used for multiple sports activities. However, different sports may present varying levels of impact risk, so we may recommend sport-specific guards for children who participate in high-impact activities like rugby or boxing. During your consultation, our specialists will assess your child's specific sporting activities and recommend the most appropriate type of guard that provides adequate protection across their range of sports. For some athletes, having multiple guards designed for specific activities may be the optimal solution.
How do I know when my child needs a new sports guard?
Your child needs a new sports guard if you notice any of these signs:
- The guard no longer fits snugly or falls out easily
- There are visible signs of wear, tears, or holes
- The guard has become too rigid or has changed shape
- Your child has lost or gained teeth
- Your child has completed orthodontic treatment
- The guard is causing discomfort or irritation
At London Dental Specialists, we recommend bringing your child's sports guard to every regular dental check-up so our dentists can assess its condition and fit. As children grow, their mouths change, making regular evaluations essential for maintaining optimal protection.
How do I get a custom sports guard for my child at London Dental Specialists?
Getting a custom sports guard for your child at London Dental Specialists is a simple process. First, schedule an appointment by calling our clinic or booking online. During the initial visit, our dentists will take precise impressions of your child's teeth. These impressions are used to create a custom-fitted sports guard tailored specifically to your child's mouth. The guard will be ready for collection within a few days, at which point our team will ensure it fits properly and provide care instructions. We offer sports guards in various colours and designs that appeal to young athletes, making protection both effective and enjoyable.
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