Why Every Young Football Player Needs a Good Mouthguard
Of all the equipment a young football player uses, the mouthguard is the cheapest and the easiest to forget. It is also one that families most often get wrong. A mouthguard that does not fit is uncomfortable, so kids chew on it, take it out or leave it on the bench. A good one stays in and does its job. Here is what parents should know.
What a mouthguard protects
The main purpose of a mouthguard is to protect the teeth, lips, tongue and jaw. Dental injuries are among the most common injuries in contact sports, and a knocked-out or cracked tooth can mean years of dental work. A mouthguard cushions blows to the face and spreads the force of impact.
You may hear claims that mouthguards prevent concussions. The research does not support that. A mouthguard is excellent protection for the mouth, but it is not a substitute for proper tackling technique, a well-fitted helmet and good concussion awareness.
Types of mouthguards
There are three main types:
- Stock mouthguards come ready to wear. They are inexpensive but often fit poorly and can make breathing and talking difficult.
- Boil-and-bite mouthguards are softened in hot water and then molded to the teeth. They are affordable, widely available and work well when molded carefully.
- Custom-fitted mouthguards are made by a dentist from an impression of the teeth. They offer the best fit and comfort but cost more.
For most young players, a well-molded boil-and-bite guard is a good choice. Children with braces should ask their orthodontist for advice, since special guards are designed to protect both the teeth and the brackets.
Getting the fit right
Follow the instructions on the package closely. Most boil-and-bite guards are dipped in hot water for a set number of seconds, cooled briefly and then placed in the mouth while the player bites down and sucks out air. The goal is a snug fit that stays in place without biting.
A good mouthguard should:
- Cover all of the upper teeth.
- Stay in place when the mouth is opened.
- Allow the player to breathe and speak reasonably well.
- Feel comfortable enough that the player does not want to take it out.
If a guard is too bulky or feels loose, try molding it again or try a different style. A mouthguard that stays in a pocket protects nothing.
Care and replacement
Mouthguards collect bacteria quickly. Rinse it with cool water before and after each use, and clean it regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap. Store it in a vented case and keep it out of hot cars, which can warp the shape. Never share a mouthguard.
Replace a mouthguard when it becomes worn, torn or loose, and for growing children, at least once a season. Kids' mouths change quickly, especially as new teeth come in. A guard that fit in August may not fit by November.
Make it a habit
The best mouthguard is the one that is actually worn. Coaches can help by making it part of the routine: the guard goes in when the helmet goes on, every single time. Parents can help by keeping a spare in the equipment bag, since mouthguards have a way of disappearing.
It is a small thing, but it is one of the simplest ways to protect your child on the field.