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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Children’s Sports Mouthguards in Renton
Hockey, soccer, ball games and backyard play can all lead to dental knocks. Renton families can discuss a well-fitting child’s mouthguard in Port Dover.
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Caring for Renton patients at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for RentonProtection for active kids
A mouthguard that fits well is one a child will actually wear.
Children take knocks to the face in organized sports and in everyday play. A mouthguard cushions the teeth, lips and gums and can reduce the chance of a chipped or knocked-out tooth. The best guard is comfortable enough that a child keeps it in for the whole game or practice, not just the warm-up.
For Renton families, a fitting appointment at our Port Dover office can cover which sports your child plays, how their teeth are changing and whether braces are involved. Because children’s mouths grow, the team will also talk about when a guard is likely to need checking or replacing.
When to consider one
Many activities carry more dental risk than parents expect.
Sports with contact or flying objects
Hockey, lacrosse, football, rugby and martial arts are obvious examples, but soccer, basketball, baseball, skateboarding and biking can also lead to falls, elbows or balls to the face. If your child’s league requires a guard, ask about the type needed. Even for informal play, a guard may be worth discussing if knocks are common at home.
Children with braces or new adult teeth
Front adult teeth that have recently come in are often more exposed and vulnerable to injury. Children wearing braces have additional risks to the lips and cheeks if they are struck. The dentist can explain which kind of guard suits a child whose mouth is changing or who is in orthodontic treatment right now. Fit matters even more then.
Types of guards
Fit, comfort and breathing all affect whether a guard does its job.
Custom-fitted guards
A custom mouthguard is made from an impression or scan of your child’s teeth, so it follows the shape of their bite closely. Many children find this type easier to speak and breathe with, which helps them keep it in. The dentist will consider growth and any expected tooth changes when advising on design and fit.
Store-bought alternatives
Stock and boil-and-bite guards are widely available and better than no protection. However, they can be bulky, loose or uncomfortable, which may lead a child to chew on them or take them out. Ask the dentist to look at your child’s current guard if you are unsure whether it fits properly or stays in place.
The fitting visit
Getting a custom guard usually involves a short, simple process.
Taking the impression
At the first visit the dentist or team takes an impression or digital scan of the teeth. This is generally quick and painless, though some children dislike the feeling of impression material. Explaining that it is a bit like soft modelling clay and only stays in briefly usually helps. The guard is then made to that shape.
Trying it in
When the guard is ready, your child will try it in so the fit can be checked. They will be shown how to put it in and take it out and asked how it feels when talking and breathing. Any pressure spots can be noted for adjustment. Bring along any sports helmet with a cage if relevant.
Care and replacement
A guard needs simple care and regular checks as children grow.
Cleaning and storage
Rinse the guard after each use and clean it gently with a soft brush and cool water. Store it in a ventilated case and keep it out of hot vehicles, which can warp it. Remind your child not to chew on the guard or share it with teammates, and keep it away from family pets.
Signs it needs checking
Bring the guard to checkups so the team can look at fit and wear. A guard that feels tight, has holes or tears, or no longer covers newly erupted teeth may need replacing. Children often outgrow guards, so expect to revisit the question every season or two while their teeth are still changing quickly. Plan for regular checks.
Planning your appointment
Fitting a guard for a Renton athlete.
Phone 519-583-2929 to book a fitting at our Port Dover office. Mention your child’s sports, season dates and whether they wear braces so the team can plan timing before games begin.
Bring your child’s current guard if they have one, and allow time for the impression visit before the season starts.
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
Mouthguard questions from parents
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Does my child need a guard for recreational sports?
It depends on the activity and how often knocks happen. Even non-contact sports can lead to falls or balls to the face. The dentist can talk through your child’s activities and help you decide whether a guard is a sensible precaution.
Can my child wear a guard with braces?
Yes, and protection is often especially important with braces. The design needs to allow for the brackets and any tooth movement. Speak with the dentist, and the orthodontist if one is involved, about the most suitable option.
How long does a child’s mouthguard last?
It varies with growth, wear and how it is looked after. Children often need replacements as new teeth come in. Bring the guard to checkups so the team can tell you when it no longer fits well.
What if my child keeps taking the guard out?
A guard that is bulky or uncomfortable is often the reason. Ask the dentist to check the fit and discuss whether a different design might be easier to wear. Getting coaches involved in reminders can also help.
What should I do if a tooth is knocked out during a game?
For a permanent tooth, handle it by the crown, keep it moist in milk and call the dental office right away. Do not replant a baby tooth. For a head injury or heavy bleeding, seek emergency medical care first.
Protection and injury care for kids
Children’s Dentistry →Sports Guards →
Hockey, ball hockey, rugby, baseball and other sports carry a risk of dental injury. Renton athletes can get a well-fitted guard from our Port Dover office.
Emergency Dental Care for Children →
A child’s knocked tooth, swollen face or sudden toothache can be frightening. Renton parents can learn what to do first and when to call our Port Dover office.