When your child steps onto the field, court, or into the ring, their safety is undoubtedly your top priority. From soccer and basketball to martial arts and football, youth sports are fantastic for development, but they also come with a risk of injury, especially to precious teeth and gums. That’s where a reliable mouthguard comes in – it’s an essential piece of equipment that can prevent serious dental injuries and give you peace of mind.
Choosing the best mouthguard for kids isn’t always easy. With so many options out there, how do you know which one offers the right balance of protection, comfort, and durability? We’ve done the hard work for you, diving deep into the market to find the top 10 youth mouthguards that truly stand out. Our guide will help you understand what makes a great mouthguard and find the perfect fit to keep your little athlete’s smile safe.
Why is a Mouthguard So Important for Kids?
Think of a mouthguard as a helmet for their teeth. During contact sports or activities with a risk of falls, impacts, or collisions, a mouthguard acts as a shock absorber. It cushions blows that could otherwise lead to chipped or broken teeth, lacerated lips and cheeks, jaw fractures, and even concussions. Investing in quality oral safety now can save a lot of pain, expense, and trips to the dentist later.
Let’s explore the top contenders for the best mouthguard for kids on the market!
Our Top 10 Picks for the Best Mouthguards for Kids
1. 5 Pack Kids Youth Mouth Guard for Sports, Boys Girls…
This multi-pack offers incredible value and versatility for young athletes who participate in various sports or simply need backups. Designed with soft, eco-friendly EVA material, these mouthguards prioritize comfort and safety without breaking the bank. Each guard comes with its own carrying case, making storage and hygiene a breeze for busy kids and parents. They’re built to fit snugly, ensuring your child’s teeth, tongue, and jaw stay protected while still allowing for easy breathing.
Key Features:
- Includes 5 mouthguards in different colors with individual carrying cases
- Made from soft, environmentally friendly EVA food-grade material
- Designed for comfort, light wear, and good shockproof properties
- Features breathing passages for easier airflow
- Suitable for a wide range of sports like Football, Lacrosse, Boxing, MMA, and more
- Available in two sizes: Small (below 7 years old) and Medium (7-14 years old)
Pros:
- Excellent value with a 5-pack
- Eco-friendly and non-toxic materials
- Good shock absorption and cushioning
- Individual carrying cases promote hygiene and prevent loss
- Allows for easy breathing
- Specific sizing guidance
Cons:
- May not offer the same level of custom fit as boil-and-bite options
- Might need frequent replacement (recommended every 3 months)
User Impressions: Parents frequently praise this pack for its sheer quantity and good value, especially for kids who tend to misplace their gear. Users find them comfortable enough for general sports use and appreciate the vibrant color options.
2. Shock Doctor Mouth Guard, Custom Fit Football Mouth Guard,…
Shock Doctor is a name synonymous with sports protection, and their Pro Mouth Guard lives up to the reputation. This isn’t just any mouthguard; it features a multi-layer construction with a shock-absorbing front bumper for comprehensive oral protection. What truly makes it stand out is its “boil and bite” custom fit, allowing you to mold it perfectly to your child’s teeth, and even reform it if needed. Plus, it’s designed to be compatible with braces, making it an excellent choice for young athletes with orthodontic work.
Key Features:
- Multi-layer construction and shock-absorbing front bumper for full protection
- “Boil and bite” custom fit that can be reformed for optimal comfort
- Braces-compatible design to protect orthodontic investments
- Suitable for all contact sports including football, boxing, MMA, and basketball
- Trusted by professional and youth athletes
Pros:
- Superior protection with multi-layer design
- True custom fit for enhanced security and comfort
- Specifically designed to be worn with braces
- Highly durable and trusted brand in sports protection
Cons:
- Only one mouthguard per pack, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers
- Requires a proper fitting process (boil and bite)
User Impressions: Many users swear by Shock Doctor for its superior protection and comfortable, secure fit. Parents especially appreciate the braces compatibility, calling it a game-changer for their kids. The custom mold is often highlighted as a key benefit for active players.
3. Venum Challenger Mouthguard – for Kids – Black/Red
Venum is a renowned brand in combat sports, and their Challenger Kids Mouthguard brings that expertise to young athletes. This high-performance mouthguard is specifically designed to protect teeth, gums, and jaws during intense training and competition. Made from durable, shock-absorbing EVA materials, it effectively disperses impact forces. The easy boil-and-bite system ensures a personalized fit, while thoughtful vents improve airflow and make communication easier – crucial features when your child needs to breathe deeply or call out plays.
Key Features:
- Designed for excellent protection and comfort in combat and contact sports
- High-performance, durable, shock-absorbing EVA materials
- Easy “boil-and-bite” custom fitting for a personalized, secure fit
- Features vents for improved airflow and easier speech
- Compact and lightweight slim profile design
- CE certified; latex and BPA free for guaranteed safety
Pros:
- Exceptional protection for high-impact sports
- Customizable fit ensures security and comfort
- Enhanced breathing and communication
- Safe, high-quality, and certified materials
- Lightweight and non-bulky design
Cons:
- Strong focus on combat sports might deter those looking for a purely general-purpose mouthguard (though it lists other contact sports)
- Only available in one color combination in this listing
User Impressions: Customers report that the Venum Challenger offers a robust fit and excellent protection, especially for kids involved in boxing or MMA. The ability to breathe and speak clearly while wearing it receives high marks, making it a favorite for young fighters.
4. CACASO 10 Pieces Sport Mouth Guards, Athletic Mouthguard for…
For teams, siblings, or parents who simply want an abundance of mouthguards on hand, the CACASO 10-piece set is an unbeatable option. These athletic mouthguards are designed for immediate, ready-to-fit use, meaning no boiling or molding is required – just pop it in and go! Crafted from soft, durable silicone, they offer a comfortable wearing experience that won’t hinder breathing. This bulk pack ensures your child is always protected, whether it’s for multiple practices, games, or just having spares.
Key Features:
- Provides 10 sport mouthguards in different colors
- Made from soft and durable silicone material
- Designed for immediate, ready-to-fit use (no shaping required)
- Effectively distributes impact forces to protect teeth, gums, and jaw
- Won’t hinder breathing and is gentle on gums and lips
- Suitable for a wide range of sports like taekwondo, football, boxing, and more
Pros:
- Exceptional value with 10 mouthguards in one pack
- No “boil and bite” process needed, ready to use
- Soft and comfortable silicone material
- Provides good basic protection across many sports
- Ample supply for multiple children or replacements
Cons:
- Lacks the personalized, snug fit of a custom-molded mouthguard
- May not be ideal for very specific dental alignments or high-impact, professional-level play
User Impressions: Users love the convenience and sheer quantity of this pack. It’s a popular choice for coaches needing to equip a team or parents with multiple active kids. The “ready-to-use” aspect is often praised for its simplicity, though some note it may not feel as secure as a custom fit.
5. Oral Mart White/Pink Youth Mouth Guard for Kids – Youth…
Oral Mart brings a blend of style, quality, and superior protection with their Youth Mouth Guard. Beyond the impressive array of colors and fun designs (like vampire fangs!), this guard boasts a unique “Fit You Better” design with a small gap for front teeth, aiding in a snugger fit. It features a dual-layer construction – an inner gel layer for custom comfort and an outer impact layer for maximum resistance. Oral Mart emphasizes safety with BPA-free, latex-free, and phthalate-free medical-grade materials, all backed by exceptional customer service for fitting guidance and support.
Key Features:
- Unique designs and 15 color options to match uniforms and preferences
- “Fit You Better” design with a small front teeth gap for a snug fit
- Dual-layer protection: inner gel for custom fit, outer layer for impact resistance
- Made from 100% medical-grade, BPA-free, latex-free, and phthalate-free materials
- Superior impact resistance for various contact sports
- Includes excellent customer service with fitting instructions and support
Pros:
- Combines aesthetics with advanced protection
- Dual-layer design offers both comfort and high impact resistance
- Strict adherence to safety standards (BPA-free, etc.)
- Strong customer support to ensure a perfect fit
- “Fit You Better” design aims for enhanced customization
Cons:
- Requires careful “boil and bite” molding for the best fit
- Price point might be higher than basic multi-packs
User Impressions: Parents frequently commend Oral Mart for its visually appealing options that kids love, making them more likely to wear it. The dual-layer protection and the company’s dedicated customer service also receive high praise, helping users achieve a truly comfortable and secure fit.
6. SAFEJAWZ Sports Mouthguard Slim Fit, Adult and Junior Mouth…
SAFEJAWZ sets itself apart with advanced technology aimed at superior protection and comfort. Their Slim Fit mouthguard boasts impact absorption tested to be over 3X stronger than industry standards. A key feature is “ReModel Tech,” which allows for multiple fitting attempts, ensuring you can always achieve that perfect fit. The unique “JawSecure” pre-formed base helps protect the jaw, while “FLUID FIT” technology ensures it contours to teeth securely. For kids who struggle with bulk, the “Anti Gag” ultra-slim profile on the inside of the mouth is a welcome relief, making it a very comfortable sports mouthguard.
Key Features:
- 3X stronger impact absorption than industry standards
- “ReModel Tech” allows for multiple “boil and bite” fitting attempts
- “JawSecure” pre-formed base for added jaw protection
- “Anti Gag” ultra-slim profile for minimal interference and comfort
- “FLUID FIT” technology for amazing retention and a secure fit
- Suitable for all contact sports (not for braces; specialized Ortho range available)
Pros:
- Exceptional impact resistance for high-level protection
- Multiple attempts at fitting reduces stress and waste
- Enhanced jaw protection
- Comfortable, non-bulky, and anti-gag design
- Secure, custom fit that stays in place
Cons:
- Not suitable for children with braces (requires their ‘Ortho’ line)
- Only one mouthguard per pack
User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the comfort and secure fit of SAFEJAWZ, especially appreciating the anti-gag design for kids who find traditional mouthguards too bulky. The ability to re-mold it multiple times is a huge plus for getting that ideal, snug fit.
7. 3 Pack Kids Youth Mouth Guard Football Sports Braces…
This 3-pack of kids’ mouthguards offers a convenient and comfortable solution for young athletes. Made from soft EVA material, these guards are designed to be lightweight, ensuring children can wear them without discomfort. They provide essential protection for gums, lips, teeth, tongue, and jaw. While the title mentions “Braces,” the features primarily focus on comfort, fit, and shockproof performance, making them a solid choice for general sports protection, especially for the 10-16 age range mentioned.
Key Features:
- Comes in a convenient 3-pack
- Made from soft, comfortable, and lightweight EVA material
- Provides comprehensive protection for gums, lips, teeth, tongue, and jaw
- Offers good elasticity, tensile strength, and shockproof cushioning
- Designed for easy breathing and talking during intense sports
- Ideal for ages 10-16 in various high-impact sports
Pros:
- Good value with a 3-pack
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- Effective shock absorption and cushioning
- Allows for natural breathing and communication
- Good for a wide range of team sports
Cons:
- Despite the title, the product features do not explicitly confirm braces compatibility, which could be misleading
- May not offer the same level of advanced customization as premium “boil and bite” options
User Impressions: Users appreciate the comfort and lightweight feel of these mouthguards, making them a popular choice for active teenagers. The multi-pack is also a frequent highlight, ensuring a spare is always on hand. Some parents wish for clearer instructions regarding braces use.
8. BBTO 6 Pcs Youth Kids Mouth Guard for Sports, Mouthguard…
The BBTO 6-piece youth mouthguard set offers an abundance of protective gear, perfect for kids aged 10-15. These silicone mouthguards are designed to be soft, comfortable, and ready to use, easily molding to various tooth shapes without requiring a boil-and-bite process. A notable feature is the inclusion of 6 cushioning convex dots in the middle part, specifically designed to release impact force and provide enhanced protection. This pack ensures your child has plenty of durable, easy-to-use mouthguards for all their sporting adventures, each with its own plastic case.
Key Features:
- Includes 6 youth mouthguards in classic colors
- Made from soft, comfortable, and durable silicone material
- Features 6 cushioning convex dots for enhanced impact force release
- Ready-to-fit design that easily molds to tooth shapes (no boiling needed)
- Suitable for 10-15 year old boys and girls
- Comes with individual plastic carrying cases
Pros:
- Great value with a 6-pack for multiple uses or replacements
- Comfortable silicone material that’s not easily deformed
- Specific impact cushioning design for better protection
- No “boil and bite” hassle; ready to wear
- Individual cases for hygiene and easy storage
Cons:
- The “ready-to-fit” nature means less personalized molding compared to boil-and-bite options
- May feel less secure for some users who prefer a custom, tighter fit
User Impressions: This pack is a hit with parents looking for a cost-effective solution for multiple kids or frequent replacements. The silicone material is generally found to be comfortable, and the inclusion of individual cases is a definite plus for organization and cleanliness. The impact dots are seen as a thoughtful addition for protection.
9. Shock Doctor Kool Aid Lip Guard Mouth Guard – Max…
Inject some fun and flavor into dental protection with the Shock Doctor Kool Aid Lip Guard. This innovative mouthguard provides full lip protection along with a dedicated breathing channel designed for 10% more airflow – perfect for high-exertion sports like football. What truly sets it apart are the exciting Kool-Aid, Warhead, and Bazooka Joe flavors that make wearing a mouthguard a more enjoyable experience for kids. It features a comfortable fit with flexible polymers, low-profile bite pads, and is even compatible with braces. It also comes with a detachable strap, ensuring it stays with the uniform.
Key Features:
- Offers full lip protection with a unique breathing channel for increased airflow
- Infused with fun, recognizable flavors (Kool-Aid, Warhead, Bazooka Joe)
- Comfortable fit with flexible polymers and low-profile bite pads
- Braces-compatible design
- Specifically designed for football with a lip guard to relax the jaw
- Includes a detachable strap
Pros:
- Fun flavors encourage kids to wear their mouthguard
- Excellent airflow for improved breathing during play
- Provides crucial lip protection, especially for football
- Comfortable and braces-friendly
- Detachable strap adds convenience
Cons:
- Primarily designed as a lip guard, which may offer different coverage compared to traditional full mouthguards
- The focus on football features might not be ideal for all contact sports if lip protection isn’t the main priority
User Impressions: Kids absolutely love the flavors, making it much easier for parents to ensure they wear their mouthguard! The enhanced airflow and lip protection are also highly valued by young football players and their coaches, especially for those with braces.
10. AITUSI Kids Youth Mouth Guard for Sports, Boys Girls…
The AITUSI Kids Youth Mouth Guard comes as a practical 5-pack, providing excellent value and consistent protection for children. Crafted from eco-friendly EVA material, these mouthguards are odorless, non-toxic, and offer good elasticity and tension, ensuring reliable shock-proof and buffer performance. They are designed to be comfortable and lightweight, protecting teeth, tongue, and chin without causing pain or discomfort. With two distinct sizes available, parents can choose the perfect fit for younger kids (below 7) or older youth (7-15), ensuring maximum versatility across a wide range of competitive sports.
Key Features:
- Includes 5 mouthguards in different colors with individual carrying cases
- Made from good quality, eco-friendly, odorless, and non-toxic EVA material
- Offers excellent elasticity, tension, and shock-proof buffering
- Designed to be safe, comfortable, and lightweight for children
- Protects teeth, tongue, and chin without discomfort
- Available in two sizes: Small (below 7) and Medium (7-15) for a sure fit
Pros:
- Great value with a 5-pack and individual carrying cases
- Safe and environmentally friendly materials
- Effective shock absorption and cushioning
- Comfortable, lightweight, and non-irritating design
- Clear sizing options for a better fit
Cons:
- Similar to other multi-packs, it might not provide the deep customization of single, boil-and-bite mouthguards
- Recommended replacement every 3 months adds to the cost over time, though mitigated by the 5-pack.
User Impressions: This pack is a solid choice for parents seeking reliable, basic protection in bulk. Users appreciate the safe materials, comfort, and the convenience of having multiple mouthguards, especially with the individual cases to keep them clean and organized. The clear size guidance also helps in making the right purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kids’ Mouthguards
Choosing the right best mouthguard for kids can sometimes bring up a few questions. Here are some common queries parents have:
Q1: Why is a mouthguard absolutely necessary for my child’s sports?
A1: Mouthguards are crucial because they protect against serious dental and oral injuries during sports. They absorb impacts, reducing the risk of chipped or broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, cuts to the lips, cheeks, and tongue, and even jaw fractures or concussions. Think of it as essential safety gear, just like a helmet or shin guards.
Q2: What’s the main difference between “boil-and-bite” and “ready-to-wear” mouthguards?
A2: “Boil-and-bite” mouthguards (like Shock Doctor or Venum) are softened in hot water and then molded to your child’s teeth by biting down. This creates a custom, snug fit. “Ready-to-wear” or “stock” mouthguards (like CACASO or BBTO) come pre-formed and don’t require any molding. They’re convenient but offer a less personalized and often less secure fit.
Q3: How do I choose the right size mouthguard for my child?
A3: Many mouthguards come in youth (or junior) and adult sizes. Some brands, like the 5 Pack Kids Youth Mouth Guard or AITUSI, offer specific age ranges (e.g., “below 7” or “7-14”) or visual guides. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. A mouthguard should cover all the upper teeth and feel secure without causing gagging or inhibiting breathing.
Q4: Can my child wear a mouthguard with braces?
A4: Yes, but they need a specially designed mouthguard for braces. Regular mouthguards can interfere with orthodontics and may even damage them. Look for options explicitly labeled “braces-compatible,” like the Shock Doctor Pro Mouth Guard or Shock Doctor Kool Aid Lip Guard. These are designed with extra space to accommodate brackets and wires comfortably.
Q5: How often should my child’s mouthguard be replaced?
A5: Generally, a mouthguard should be replaced every sports season, or more frequently if it shows signs of wear and tear, such as tears, holes, or reduced elasticity. For growing children, a mouthguard may need to be replaced sooner if their mouth or dental structure changes significantly. Some manufacturers, like the 5 Pack Kids Youth Mouth Guard, recommend replacement every 3 months.
Q6: What’s the best way to clean and store my child’s mouthguard?
A6: After each use, rinse the mouthguard thoroughly with cold water. You can clean it gently with a toothbrush and mild soap or toothpaste. Avoid harsh abrasive cleaners. Store it in a sturdy, ventilated case (many of the products above include one) to protect it from damage and allow it to air dry, preventing bacterial growth.
Q7: What sports typically require a mouthguard for kids?
A7: Mouthguards are highly recommended or even mandated for almost any contact or collision sport. This includes football, soccer, basketball, hockey, lacrosse, martial arts (karate, taekwondo, MMA, boxing), rugby, wrestling, skateboarding, and even activities like gymnastics or cycling where falls are a risk. When in doubt, it’s always better to wear one!
Q8: Are flavored mouthguards safe for kids?
A8: Yes, flavored mouthguards like the Shock Doctor Kool Aid Lip Guard are generally safe. They use food-grade flavorings and materials that meet safety standards. They can be a great way to encourage kids, especially younger ones, to wear their mouthguard consistently, making dental protection a more enjoyable experience.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Mouthguard for Kids
Investing in the best mouthguard for kids is a small step that makes a huge difference in their safety and well-being. Whether you prioritize a custom “boil and bite” fit for maximum security, a braces-compatible design, a multi-pack for convenience, or even a fun flavored option to encourage wear, there’s a perfect mouthguard out there for your young athlete. Always consider the specific sport, your child’s age, and their individual comfort needs. Happy playing, and stay safe out there!