Winter is here – and that means snow days, hot cocoa, and lots of kid-powered fun! From hockey games and basketball practice to skiing and snowboarding, winter sports keep kids moving and smiling. But with all that action comes one important question for parents:
Do kids really need mouthguards for winter sports?
The answer is a big, confident YES!
Why Mouthguards Are a Must-Have for Active Kids
Kids play hard — and that’s a good thing! But bumps, falls, and accidental collisions can happen in the blink of an eye. Without protection, those moments can lead to:
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Sore jaws
- Cuts to lips, cheeks, or tongues
A mouthguard acts like a tiny superhero for your child’s smile, cushioning impacts and helping prevent dental injuries before they happen.
Which Winter Sports Need Mouthguards?
If a sport involves speed, contact, or falling, a mouthguard is a smart idea! We recommend them for:
- Ice hockey
- Basketball
- Wrestling
- Skiing & snowboarding
- Gymnastics
- Ice skating
Even non-contact sports can turn risky when kids are learning, racing, or trying something new!
Mouthguard Options: Which One Should You Choose?
Not all mouthguards are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Stock Mouthguards
Ready to wear — but bulky and not very comfy.
Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards (Our recommendation for mixed dentition)
Molded at home for a better fit.
Custom-Fitted Mouthguards (Our favorite for full adult dentition)
Made just for your child’s smile by their dentist. These offer the best comfort, protection, and breathability — and kids are much more likely to wear them!
What If My Child Has Braces?
Great question! Kids with braces should always wear a mouthguard during sports. Orthodontic mouthguards protect both the braces and your child’s lips and cheeks. A custom mouthguard is especially helpful as teeth continue to grow and shift.
How to Keep Mouthguards Fresh & Fun
Taking care of a mouthguard is easy:
- Rinse with cold water after each use
- Gently brush it with mild soap
- Store it in a ventilated case
- Keep it away from heat
- Bring it to dental visits so we can check the fit
Ready, Set, Smile!
Winter sports should be full of fun, confidence, and big smiles — not dental emergencies. A mouthguard is a simple step that goes a long way in protecting your child’s teeth.
If your child is gearing up for winter sports, we’d love to help find the perfect mouthguard for their winning smile. Let’s keep those teeth safe all season long!
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