How Custom Mouthguards Can Protect Your Child in Sports

Keeping Smiles Safe on the Field

As a parent, watching your child dive into sports brings excitement and pride—but it also comes with a responsibility to protect their growing smile. Whether it’s soccer, football, basketball, or even skateboarding, contact and collision sports pose real risks to your child’s teeth and jaw. That’s where custom mouthguards come in. At Sunshine Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we help families in San Antonio shield their children’s oral health with mouthguards designed for superior fit and protection.

Why Mouthguards Matter in Youth Sports

Injuries to the mouth are among the most common in youth sports. From chipped teeth to jaw fractures and lip injuries, the consequences of not wearing a mouthguard can be serious—and costly. According to the American Dental Association, athletes are 60 times more likely to suffer dental injuries when not wearing a protective mouthpiece.

While over-the-counter boil-and-bite options exist, custom mouthguards offer significant advantages in comfort, durability, and effectiveness. They're specifically designed for your child’s unique bite and anatomy, allowing them to speak and breathe easily while staying fully protected.

Benefits of Choosing a Custom Mouthguard

1. Personalized Fit

A custom-fit guard ensures coverage for all vulnerable areas, including the front teeth, molars, and gums. Unlike bulky store-bought versions, these mouthguards won’t cause discomfort or fall out mid-play.

2. Better Performance

Because they’re thinner and more comfortable, kids can focus on the game rather than adjusting their gear. They’re less likely to resist wearing it—and more likely to benefit from it.

3. Durability

Crafted from high-quality materials, custom mouthguards are built to withstand regular use and intense activity without breaking down quickly.

4. Comprehensive Protection

Besides shielding against direct impacts, these guards can also reduce the risk of soft tissue injuries, jaw fractures, and even concussions by absorbing shock.

When Should Your Child Wear a Mouthguard?

Children should wear a mouthguard during any sport or activity that could result in facial impact. This includes:

• Football
• Basketball
• Baseball/Softball
• Soccer
• Martial arts
• Skateboarding
• BMX or biking
• Gymnastics

If you're unsure whether your child needs one, our team at Sunshine is happy to help you decide.

How We Fit and Deliver Custom Mouthguards

At Sunshine Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we make it easy:

1. Consultation & Impression: We take a digital or physical impression of your child’s teeth to ensure precise fit.
2. Fabrication: The mouthguard is crafted in a dental lab using high-grade, BPA-free materials.
3. Fitting Appointment: Once ready, your child tries it on, and we make final adjustments for a snug, secure feel.

We also recommend bringing the guard in during your child’s regular dental exams to ensure it still fits as they grow.

Protection Today, Confidence Tomorrow

Helping your child stay active and safe starts with the right gear. Just like they wear helmets or pads, a custom mouthguard is essential—not optional. It protects their current smile and their future one, reducing long-term dental issues from avoidable injuries.

Request Your Child’s Custom Mouthguard Today

At Sunshine Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we’re proud to serve families across San Antonio with preventive solutions that support healthy, confident smiles. Contact us to schedule a fitting for your child’s custom sports mouthguard.

📞 Reach out to our friendly team or call us directly to book your appointment!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are custom mouthguards better than store-bought ones?

Yes. Custom mouthguards are tailored to your child’s teeth, making them more effective, comfortable, and durable.

At what age can a child get a custom mouthguard?

Children as young as 6 or 7 can wear custom guards, but we recommend getting evaluated to ensure proper fit based on dental development.

How long does a custom mouthguard last?

Most will last one sports season, but regular checkups help ensure they still fit as your child grows.

Does insurance cover custom mouthguards?

Coverage varies. Our insurance-friendly office is happy to verify your benefits for you.

Protect Their Smile with Sunshine Pediatric Dentistry

A healthy smile shouldn’t be left to chance. Make sure your child is ready for sports season with a custom-fitted mouthguard from Sunshine Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. We’re committed to providing preventive care that’s as proactive as you are.

📅 Schedule your child’s appointment today or learn more about our full range of general dentistry services.

Related Blogs from Sunshine Pediatric Dentistry

• Should My Child Wear a Mouthguard?
• Back-to-School Dental Tips
• Common Dental Issues in Children