Custom Sports Mouth Guards in Naples
Protecting your child’s smile during sports is just as important as wearing a helmet or pads. At Morning Star Children's Dentistry in Naples, FL , Dr. Rose Gedeon creates custom-fitted sports mouth guards that cushion the teeth and jaw, helping young athletes play hard while reducing the risk of broken or knocked-out teeth.
Request an AppointmentWhy Kids Need a Mouth Guard
Dental injuries are among the most common injuries in youth sports. A single fall, collision, or stray ball can chip, crack, or knock out a tooth, cut the lips and cheeks, or injure the jaw. A mouth guard acts as a shock absorber, spreading the force of an impact and dramatically lowering the chance of serious damage. Mouth guards are recommended for contact sports like football, hockey, lacrosse, and martial arts, as well as basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, skateboarding, gymnastics, and cycling.
Custom vs. Store-Bought Mouth Guards
There are three main types of mouth guards:
- Stock mouth guards come ready to wear but are often bulky and loose, making them uncomfortable and less protective.
- Boil-and-bite mouth guards offer a better fit, but they can be uneven and wear out quickly.
- Custom mouth guards are made from impressions of your child’s teeth for a precise, secure fit. They are more comfortable, stay in place, and allow easier breathing and speaking.
Because custom guards are comfortable, kids are more likely to actually wear them, which is the key to protection.
The Custom Fitting Process
Getting a custom mouth guard is simple. We take a quick impression of your child’s teeth, and a durable, lightweight guard is fabricated to match their bite. At a follow-up visit, we check the fit and show your child how to wear and clean it. Because children’s mouths grow and change, and teeth shift as baby teeth are lost, mouth guards may need to be replaced as your child grows. We can also make guards that accommodate braces.
Caring for a Mouth Guard
- Rinse the guard before and after each use
- Clean it with a toothbrush and cool water, and let it air dry
- Store it in a ventilated case and keep it out of hot cars and direct sunlight
- Never chew on the guard or share it with teammates
- Bring it to checkups so we can check for wear
If an Injury Happens
Even with protection, accidents can happen. If your child chips, cracks, or knocks out a tooth, call us right away. Our emergency dental care page explains what to do. If your child grinds their teeth at night, a separate night guard may also be helpful. Discuss your child’s activities at their next checkup.
To schedule a custom mouth guard fitting, call Morning Star Children's Dentistry at (239) 920-7827. Let’s keep that winning smile safe.
Sports Mouth Guard FAQs
Which sports require a mouth guard?
Any sport with a risk of contact, falls, or flying objects, including football, basketball, soccer, baseball, hockey, lacrosse, martial arts, and skateboarding.
Are custom mouth guards better than store-bought ones?
Yes. Custom guards fit precisely, stay in place, and are more comfortable, so they provide better protection and kids are more likely to wear them.
Can my child wear a mouth guard with braces?
Yes. We can create a mouth guard designed to fit over braces and protect both the teeth and orthodontic appliances.
How often should a mouth guard be replaced?
Children’s guards often need replacement every season or as their teeth change. Replace any guard that is worn, cracked, or no longer fits snugly.
Will a mouth guard affect breathing or talking?
Custom mouth guards are thin and precisely shaped, so most kids can breathe, talk, and drink water comfortably while wearing them.
How do I clean my child’s mouth guard?
Rinse it before and after use, brush it with cool water, let it air dry, and store it in a ventilated case.
What should I do if my child’s tooth is knocked out during a game?
Pick the tooth up by the crown, keep it moist in milk or saliva, and call (239) 920-7827 right away. Quick action gives the best chance of saving it.