Published October 18, 2026
Ask about custom mouthguards at a checkup, and see our overview of choosing a Lowell children’s dentist for more on routine care.
Protecting teeth during sports
Mouthguards help cushion blows to the face and reduce the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue and cheeks. The ADA recommends mouthguards for sports and recreational activities with a risk of falls or contact, not only for football and hockey. Practices and games both count, since injuries can happen any time.
Three main types
- Stock mouthguards: ready to wear and inexpensive, but often bulky and loose
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards: softened in hot water and shaped to the teeth at home; a common middle option
- Custom-fitted mouthguards: made by a dental practice from an impression of your child’s teeth; usually the best fit and comfort
Fit for growing mouths and braces
Children’s mouths change quickly as teeth come in and fall out, so mouthguards may need replacing often. A good fit should be comfortable, stay in place without biting down, and allow breathing and speaking. Children with braces need a mouthguard designed for braces; ask the orthodontist or dentist.
Care and replacement
- Rinse before and after each use, and brush it gently
- Store it in a ventilated case and keep it out of hot cars
- Do not share mouthguards
- Replace it when it is worn, torn, loose or no longer fits
- Bring it to dental checkups so the fit can be checked
If a tooth is injured during a game
For a knocked-out permanent tooth, find the tooth, hold it by the crown (the white part), rinse briefly if dirty without scrubbing, and try to place it back in the socket. If that is not possible, keep it in milk and see a dentist right away; time matters. Do not replant a baby tooth. For chips or loose teeth, save any pieces and contact a dentist promptly. If there was a head injury, loss of consciousness, uncontrolled bleeding or a possible jaw fracture, call 911 or go to the ER.
Questions parents ask
At what age should a child start wearing a mouthguard?
Whenever they start a sport with a risk of contact or falls. Many youth leagues require them for certain sports.
Are boil-and-bite guards good enough?
They are better than none and fit better than stock guards. A dentist can tell you whether a custom guard would help your child.
Does insurance cover custom mouthguards?
Coverage varies. Check with your plan and the practice.
Can my child wear a mouthguard with braces?
Yes, and it is especially important. Use one designed for braces and ask the orthodontist for advice.
Official sources for further reading
Written independently for this site. These organizations publish their own guidance; they did not review or endorse this page.