Sports Mouth Guards

A sports mouth guard helps reduce the risk of dental injuries by protecting a child’s teeth, lips, tongue, cheeks, and jaw during athletic activities. Custom mouth guards from our Bethesda, MD, pediatric dentist are made to fit a child’s smile precisely, offering better comfort, durability, and protection than store-bought versions. They stay securely in place, allow easier breathing and speaking, and are a smart choice for kids who play contact or high-impact sports.

Learn more about sports mouth guards for kids below.

How Does a Sports Mouth Guard Work?

Sports mouth guards are worn over the upper teeth and work by cushioning the mouth if your child is hit in the face or jaw. The basic structure of a sports mouth guard consists of multiple layers, each serving a specific purpose. The outermost layer is designed to resist abrasions and impacts, whereas the inner layers are constructed to absorb and disperse forces, which are vital for preventing dental injuries.

Custom sports mouth guards are made from durable, flexible materials that allow your child to breathe and speak more easily than store-bought options. They can also be designed to provide protection for children who wear braces. Worn on top of brackets and wires, these mouth guards won’t interfere with orthodontic appliances, helping prevent damage to both the braces and the surrounding teeth.

What’s the Process for Getting a Mouth Guard?

Getting a sports mouth guard typically takes two visits to our Bethesda, MD, pediatric dental office. During the first appointment, digital impressions of your child’s teeth are taken. These detailed scans capture the exact shape of their mouth, which allows the mouth guard to be made with a precise fit. The digital impressions are then sent to a dental lab, where the custom mouth guard is carefully crafted.

At the second visit, the finished sports mouth guard will be ready. Dr. Shin will place it in your child’s mouth to check the fit and make sure it feels comfortable and secure. Adjustments can be made if needed to ensure it stays in place during activity and does not cause irritation. Your child will also receive instructions on how to wear, clean, and store the mouth guard to help extend its lifespan.