As parents, we want to keep our kids safe, whether they’re scoring goals on the field, practicing martial arts, or even just grinding their teeth at night. A crucial piece of protective gear that often gets overlooked until it’s too late is a high-quality mouth guard. Dental injuries can be painful, costly, and even permanent. That’s why choosing the best mouth guard for kids is so important.
From contact sports to nighttime teeth grinding, a good mouth guard offers invaluable oral protection, cushioning impact, and keeping those precious smiles intact. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? Don’t worry, we’ve done the homework for you! We’ve rounded up seven top-notch mouth guards that offer a blend of comfort, durability, and most importantly, excellent protection for your little ones.
Why Your Kid Absolutely Needs a Mouth Guard
You might think mouthguards are only for hardcore sports like boxing or football, but that’s a common misconception! Any activity where there’s a risk of impact or falls – from basketball and soccer to skateboarding and even gymnastics – can lead to dental injuries. Think chipped teeth, knocked-out teeth, or even injuries to the jaw and soft tissues like lips and tongue.
Beyond sports, some children also experience bruxism, which is chronic teeth grinding or clenching, often during sleep. This can wear down tooth enamel, cause jaw pain, and lead to other dental problems. For these kids, a dental guard designed for grinding is a game-changer. Investing in proper protective gear, like an athletic mouthguard, is a small price to pay for your child’s long-term dental health and peace of mind.
How to Choose the Best Mouth Guard for Kids
Before diving into our top picks, let’s quickly go over what to look for when selecting a mouth guard for your child:
- Fit and Comfort: A mouthguard only works if your child actually wears it! It should fit snugly without restricting breathing or speech. Boil-and-bite models offer a custom fit that’s usually preferred.
- Protection Level: Consider the activity. High-impact sports require more robust shock absorption than light recreational play or teeth grinding. Look for durable, multi-layer materials.
- Material Safety: Always check for BPA-free, Latex-free, and Phthalate-free materials to ensure your child’s safety.
- Durability: Kids are tough on their gear. You want a mouthguard that can withstand repeated use and impact.
- Ease of Cleaning: Good hygiene is key to preventing bacteria buildup.
- Braces Compatibility: If your child has braces, you’ll need a mouthguard specifically designed to accommodate them without interfering with orthodontics.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – our hand-picked favorites!
The 7 Best Mouth Guards for Kids: Our Top Picks
Here are our top recommendations for the best mouth guard for kids, covering various needs from sports to nighttime grinding.
1. The ConfiDental Mouth Guard for Grinding Teeth at Night
If your child is a nighttime teeth grinder, The ConfiDental offers a versatile and effective solution. What makes this option stand out is its dual-model approach, giving you two distinct types of moldable mouthguards in one pack, specifically designed for younger users. This means you can find the perfect comfortable fit to protect their teeth from bruxism without resorting to expensive custom lab guards right away. Plus, the fun rainbow colors are a nice touch for kids!
Key Features:
– Comes with 2 Different Models (VI and VII), 3 pieces each.
– Model VI offers 3mm thickness, Model VII offers 3mm with a slightly thinner wall for comfort.
– Option to upgrade to a custom nightguard made by their lab professionals if not satisfied.
– Made with BPA-free and Phthalates-free premium grade material.
– Easy to clean and reusable, comes with a high-quality case.
– Includes a step-by-step video guide for a perfect custom fit.
– 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.
Pros:
– Excellent for nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism).
– Two models offer flexibility in finding the right comfort and protection level.
– Moldable for a custom, secure fit.
– Made from safe, high-quality materials.
– Good value with multiple guards in one pack.
Cons:
– Primarily designed for grinding; may not be suitable for high-impact sports.
– Molding process requires careful following of instructions.
User Impressions:
Parents frequently praise these guards for effectively stopping grinding and clenching, noting how easy the video guide makes the molding process. Many appreciate the value of getting multiple guards and the option to choose between slightly different thicknesses for their child’s comfort. It’s often called a fantastic solution for oral protection during sleep.
2. 5 Pack Kids Youth Mouth Guard for Sports
For active kids who participate in multiple sports or just need a constant supply of fresh mouthguards, this 5-pack offers incredible value and practicality. It’s perfect for families where mouthguards tend to go missing or get chewed up regularly. Each guard is designed for versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of athletic activities, ensuring your child always has a protective barrier on hand.
Key Features:
– 5 pieces of kids/youth mouth guards in different colors.
– Each guard comes with its own plastic carrying case.
– Made of soft and environmentally friendly EVA food-grade material.
– Odorless, non-toxic, and has good shockproof and cushioning properties.
– Comfortable fit, designed for easy breathing.
– Suitable for Football, Lacrosse, Soccer, Boxing, MMA, Basketball, Taekwondo, Karate, and more.
– Available in Small (below 7 years old) and Medium (7-14 years old) sizes.
– 100% Satisfaction guarantee.
Pros:
– Excellent value with 5 mouthguards and cases.
– Soft, comfortable, and provides good impact protection.
– Suitable for a wide variety of contact sports.
– Safe, food-grade materials.
– Multiple colors and size options to choose from.
Cons:
– Recommended to change every 3 months, which can add up despite the initial value.
– Generic design might not appeal to all kids seeking unique styles.
User Impressions:
Parents love the convenience and affordability of this multi-pack, finding it great for keeping up with lost or damaged guards. Kids appreciate the different colors. Users report they are comfortable and do a good job protecting teeth during various sports.
3. Oral Mart Black/Blue Strapped Youth Mouth Guard for Kids
Oral Mart steps up the game with their strapped youth mouthguard, specifically designed for those high-impact sports where a helmet is worn. If your child plays football, ice hockey, or lacrosse, this dental protection ensures their mouthguard stays securely in place. Its dual-layer construction is engineered for superior impact resistance, giving parents peace of mind that their future superstar is well-protected.
Key Features:
– Dual-layer design: inner gel layer for custom fit, outer impact layer for superior resistance.
– Strapped/tethered design for secure attachment to helmets.
– Made from BPA-free, Latex-free, Phthalate-free, 100% Medical-Grade materials.
– Wide range of designs including USA Flag, Vampire Fangs, and 15 colors.
– Instructional email and packaging for easy custom fitting.
– Ultimate customer service and replacement promise.
Pros:
– Strapped design is ideal for helmeted contact sports.
– Superior dual-layer protection for maximum safety.
– High-quality, safe, medical-grade materials.
– Excellent customer service and satisfaction guarantee.
– Many fun designs and colors available.
Cons:
– Boil-and-bite fitting process requires careful attention.
– May be bulkier than strapless options due to the dual-layer.
User Impressions:
This mouthguard receives high marks from parents of football and hockey players for its secure fit and robust protection. Many commend Oral Mart’s responsive customer service, especially with the fitting process, and kids love the unique designs.
4. Venum Challenger Mouthguard – for Kids – Black/Red
For young martial artists, boxers, or MMA enthusiasts, the Venum Challenger Mouthguard is a fantastic choice from a brand renowned in combat sports. This mouthguard isn’t just about protection; it’s about providing high-performance gear that stands up to intense training and competition. Its design focuses on excellent shock absorption while ensuring your child can breathe and speak clearly, which is vital in combat sports.
Key Features:
– Provides excellent protection, custom comfort, and unparalleled value.
– High-performance design for intense training or competition.
– Durable, shock-absorbing EVA materials effectively distribute impact forces.
– Easy boil-and-bite custom fitting for a personalized, secure fit.
– Features vents for improved airflow and easier speech.
– Compact and lightweight with a slim profile design.
– Safe materials: CE certified, latex, and BPA-free.
Pros:
– Reputable brand in combat sports for reliable protection.
– Excellent shock absorption and durability.
– Improved airflow and speech clarity.
– Slim profile enhances comfort during prolonged use.
– Easy to customize with the boil-and-bite method.
Cons:
– Only comes with one guard, might need frequent replacement depending on intensity of use.
– Limited color options compared to other brands.
User Impressions:
Reviewers highlight Venum’s reputation for quality in sports gear, and this kids’ mouthguard lives up to it. Kids find it comfortable, and parents trust it for its robust protection during martial arts and boxing sessions. The ease of molding is a consistent positive.
5. Oral Mart White/Pink Youth Mouth Guard for Kids – Youth
Another stellar offering from Oral Mart, this youth mouthguard targets kids who need premium protection without the strap, and who love to express their personality. It combines unique aesthetics with top-tier safety features, making it a favorite for various sports like flag football, karate, and rugby. The “Fit You Better” design, including a small gap for front teeth, aims to ensure a snug and comfortable fit for almost any child.
Key Features:
– Unique designs including USA Flag, 3 Vampire Fangs, and 15 vibrant colors.
– “Fit You Better” design with a small gap for front teeth for a snug fit.
– Superior dual-layer construction: inner gel for custom fit, outer impact layer for resistance.
– Made from food-grade, BPA-free, Latex-free, Phthalate-free, 100% Medical-Grade materials.
– Instructional email and packaging for step-by-step molding.
– Ultimate customer service including a replacement promise if a different size is needed.
Pros:
– Visually appealing with a wide array of fun designs.
– Excellent dual-layer protection against impacts.
– Designed for a superior custom fit.
– Made with premium, safe, medical-grade materials.
– Exceptional customer support and satisfaction policy.
Cons:
– Boil-and-bite process can be a bit challenging to get perfect on the first try.
– Not strapped, so not ideal for sports requiring helmet attachment.
User Impressions:
Kids absolutely adore the diverse and cool designs, which makes them more willing to wear the mouthguard. Parents praise the durable construction and the company’s commitment to ensuring a good fit and customer satisfaction, often noting the noticeable quality difference.
6. 3 Pack Kids Youth Mouth Guard Football Sports Braces
For kids who need comfortable, versatile protection, especially those with braces, this 3-pack is a fantastic and thoughtful gift. It’s designed to be lightweight and soft, ensuring that even during intense team sports like football or basketball, your child’s mouth is protected without discomfort. The multi-pack is also great for ensuring there’s always a clean spare on hand.
Key Features:
– Comes in a convenient 3-pack.
– Comfortable and lightweight design for no discomfort or pain.
– Soft and flexible EVA material provides a great fit.
– Offers shockproof and cushioning performance for long-lasting protection.
– Designed for easy breathing and talking.
– Ideal for teenagers/children between 10-16 years old.
– Suitable for soccer, boxing, MMA, taekwondo, karate, flag football, and more.
– Dedicated after-sales service.
Pros:
– Great value with three mouthguards.
– Specifically designed to be comfortable and lightweight.
– Suitable for kids with braces.
– Provides good shock protection for various team sports.
– Facilitates easy breathing and communication.
Cons:
– May not offer as many design choices as some single-pack options.
– Specific age range might not cover all youth athletes.
User Impressions:
Parents of kids with braces particularly appreciate how well these mouthguards accommodate orthodontics without causing irritation. Users find them soft, comfortable, and effective for a range of sports, highlighting the good value of the multi-pack.
7. Shock Doctor Kool Aid Lip Guard Mouth Guard – Max AirFlow
Let’s be honest, sometimes getting kids to wear protective gear requires a little fun! The Shock Doctor Kool Aid Lip Guard Mouth Guard delivers on both protection and appeal with its unique, kid-friendly flavors. This mouthguard isn’t just a gimmick; it provides excellent full-mouth and lip protection, specially designed for football, with an impressive 10% more airflow for easier breathing on the field. The detachable strap is also a huge plus for helmeted sports.
Key Features:
– Full mouth and lip protection with a breathing channel for 10% more airflow.
– Available in fun flavors like KOOL AID, WARHEAD, and BAZOOKA JOE.
– Comfortable fit with flexible polymers and low-profile bite pads.
– Compatible with braces, protecting orthodontics.
– Designed specifically for football, helps relax the jaw.
– Comes with a detachable strap for helmet use.
Pros:
– Fun flavors encourage kids to wear it.
– Excellent airflow for better breathing during intense play.
– Provides great lip protection, essential for football.
– Braces-friendly design.
– Detachable strap for versatility.
Cons:
– Flavor might diminish over time.
– Primarily focused on football, may not be the optimal choice for all sports.
User Impressions:
This mouthguard is a huge hit with kids, who absolutely love the flavors! Parents appreciate that it encourages consistent wear and provides reliable protection, especially for football. The braces compatibility and enhanced airflow are also frequently praised.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids Mouth Guards
Q1: What is the difference between a boil-and-bite mouthguard and a custom-fit one?
A: A boil-and-bite mouthguard is bought off the shelf, then molded to your child’s teeth by softening it in hot water and having them bite down. This offers a good, semi-custom fit. A truly custom-fit mouthguard is made by a dentist after taking an impression of your child’s teeth, offering the most precise and comfortable fit, but it’s also significantly more expensive. For most kids’ sports, a good boil-and-bite option is sufficient.
Q2: How often should I replace my child’s mouthguard?
A: It’s generally recommended to replace a child’s mouthguard at the start of each new sports season or every 6-12 months, whichever comes first. If your child is still growing, their mouthguard might need replacing more frequently as their dental alignment changes. Also, replace it immediately if it shows any signs of wear, tears, or damage.
Q3: Can my child wear a mouthguard if they have braces?
A: Yes! It’s actually even more crucial for kids with braces to wear a mouthguard during sports to protect their teeth and the braces themselves from damage. Look for mouthguards specifically labeled as “braces compatible,” as these are designed with extra space to accommodate orthodontics without interfering with treatment.
Q4: How do I clean my child’s mouthguard?
A: After each use, rinse the mouthguard thoroughly with cool water. You can also clean it with a toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste. Store it in a ventilated case to prevent bacterial growth. Avoid hot water, as it can distort the mouthguard’s shape. Some people also use denture cleaner or specialized mouthguard cleaning tablets for a deeper clean.
Q5: What sports require a mouthguard?
A: The American Dental Association recommends mouthguards for 29 sports, including contact sports like football, boxing, ice hockey, lacrosse, and rugby. However, it’s also highly recommended for non-contact sports with a risk of falls or impact, such as basketball, soccer, baseball, skateboarding, gymnastics, and even martial arts. When in doubt, it’s always better to wear one!
Q6: What size mouthguard does my child need?
A: Mouthguards typically come in youth and adult sizes. For kids, “youth” is usually appropriate. Some brands offer more specific sizing (e.g., small for under 7, medium for 7-14). Always check the manufacturer’s age or weight recommendations. A well-fitting mouthguard shouldn’t feel loose or fall out easily, nor should it cause discomfort.
Q7: Are flavored mouthguards safe for kids?
A: Yes, flavored mouthguards from reputable brands like Shock Doctor are generally safe for kids. The flavoring agents used are food-grade and non-toxic. They can be a great way to encourage consistent mouthguard wear, especially for picky children!
Keep Those Smiles Safe!
Choosing the best mouth guard for kids is an essential step in safeguarding their oral health, whether they’re future sports stars or dealing with nightly teeth grinding. We’ve highlighted a fantastic range of options, each with unique strengths, from multi-packs for the super active to specialized guards for braces or bruxism.
Remember, the most effective mouth guard is the one your child will actually wear! Prioritize comfort, a good fit, and appropriate protection for their specific needs. By investing in a quality mouthguard today, you’re helping to prevent dental emergencies and ensure their precious smile stays healthy for years to come.