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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Children’s Sports Mouthguards in Bloomsburg
A mouthguard that fits a growing child is more likely to be worn. Bloomsburg families can ask about custom sports guards for young athletes at our Port Dover office.
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Caring for Bloomsburg patients at our office in Port Dover
See every dental service for BloomsburgProtection for growing players
A guard only protects when a child is willing to keep it in.
Hockey, soccer, basketball, lacrosse and martial arts all carry a chance of a ball, stick, elbow or fall striking the mouth. A mouthguard helps cushion those blows and can reduce the risk of chipped or knocked-out teeth and cuts to the lips and cheeks. Children are more likely to wear one that is comfortable.
Bloomsburg families can visit our Port Dover office to discuss a mouthguard made for their child’s teeth. The dentist considers which teeth are coming in, any braces and the sport played, then explains how often a growing mouth may need a new fit. Bringing the child along to talk about it often helps them buy in.
Why it matters
Mouth protection is worth considering beyond contact sports.
Which activities carry risk
Some leagues require mouthguards, but injuries also happen during practices, skateboarding, cycling and casual games. Children with front teeth that stick out slightly can be more prone to damage. Talk to the dentist about the activities your child does through the year, because the level of risk helps decide what type of protection makes sense.
Store-bought versus custom guards
Stock and boil-and-bite guards are widely available and better than nothing, but they can be bulky or loose, which makes children more likely to chew on them or leave them on the bench. A custom guard is shaped from an impression or scan of your child’s teeth. The dentist can explain how the fit compares for your child.
Making the guard
The process is quick and usually easy for children.
Taking the impression
The dentist first checks your child’s teeth and notes any loose baby teeth or adult teeth still coming in. An impression or scan is then taken to make the guard. Children can be told it feels a bit like biting into soft putty. The visit is a good chance to explain why the guard matters in words they understand.
Checking fit and comfort
When the guard is ready, the dentist checks that it sits securely, does not press on the gums and allows your child to breathe and speak reasonably well. Adjustments can be made if something rubs. Your child can practise putting it in and taking it out so they feel confident doing it on their own.
Growth and braces
A child’s mouth changes, so the guard may need to change too.
When a new guard is needed
As baby teeth fall out and adult teeth arrive, a guard that once fit well can become tight or loose. Check it before each season and bring it to checkups. If your child complains that it hurts, falls out easily or feels different, a refit or a new guard may be needed rather than continuing to wear one that does not fit.
Guards with orthodontic treatment
Children with braces still benefit from protection, since brackets can cut the lips during impact. Their needs are different, and the dentist can discuss what type of guard works with the orthodontic appliances. If your child is starting or finishing braces, mention it so the guard plan can be adjusted. The orthodontist may also have a view worth sharing.
Care and habits
Good habits keep the guard clean and ready.
Cleaning and storing the guard
Rinse the guard after use, clean it gently with a toothbrush and cool water, and let it dry before storing it in a ventilated case. Avoid hot water and leaving it in a hot car, since heat can change its shape. Remind children not to chew or share their guard, and replace it if it becomes torn or worn.
What to do after a mouth injury
Even with a guard, injuries can occur. If a tooth is chipped, loosened or knocked out, call the office promptly. For a knocked-out adult tooth, handle it by the crown and keep it moist in milk. Seek emergency medical care first for a head injury, heavy bleeding or any difficulty breathing. Coaches benefit from knowing these steps too.
Planning your appointment
Fitting a guard for a Bloomsburg athlete.
Contact our Port Dover office to book a mouthguard visit, ideally before the season begins. Mention your child’s sport, whether they wear braces and any teeth that are loose or coming in.
Bring your child’s current guard if they have one, so the dentist can see how it fits and what to improve.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Mouthguards for kids
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
At what age should my child wear a mouthguard?
Any child playing a sport or activity where falls or contact are possible can benefit. The dentist can discuss suitable timing based on the activity and the stage of tooth development. League rules are a minimum, not the only guide.
Will a custom guard affect breathing or talking?
A well-fitted guard is usually thinner and more secure than a generic one, which can make breathing and speaking easier. The dentist checks comfort and can adjust the fit if needed. Practise wearing it at home first.
How often does a child’s guard need replacing?
It depends on growth and wear. Many children need a new guard as teeth change. Check the fit each season and bring it to checkups so the dentist can advise. A guard that slips out easily is a sign to check.
Can my child wear a guard with braces?
Yes, but the type may differ. Mention the braces when booking, and the dentist can discuss an option that protects the teeth and lips without interfering with orthodontic treatment. The fit may need review as teeth move.
What if the guard starts to smell?
Clean it after each use and let it dry fully before storing. If odour persists or the guard is cracked or worn, it may need replacing. Bring it to the office if you are unsure.
Related protection for Bloomsburg kids
Children’s Dentistry →Sports Guards →
Contact sports and active hobbies carry a risk of mouth injury. Bloomsburg athletes of all ages can be fitted for a custom sports guard at our Port Dover office.
Emergency Dental Care for Children →
A fall, a sudden toothache or a swollen cheek can frighten parents. Bloomsburg families can call our Port Dover office for guidance on a child’s urgent concern.