Dental Articles - Millwoods, Edmonton

From hockey rinks and soccer fields to basketball courts and martial arts studios, youth sports are a big part of life for many families in Millwoods and across Edmonton. Parents invest in helmets, shin guards, and proper footwear — but the mouthguard is sometimes treated as an afterthought. A quick purchase from a drugstore or sporting goods aisle may seem convenient, yet the fit and quality of that guard can make a meaningful difference in how well it protects your child's teeth and mouth.

At Lakewood Dental Centre, we regularly speak with parents who want to understand whether a store-bought guard is enough, or if a custom sports guard is a better choice for their young athlete. This guide explains how different types of mouthguards work, where store-bought options may fall short, and what you can expect from a professionally made guard.

Why Mouthguards Matter for Youth Athletes

Contact and collision sports carry a risk of dental injury. A blow to the face can chip, crack, or knock out a tooth. It can also injure the lips, cheeks, tongue, and jaw. According to public health guidance, mouthguards are recommended for many sports where there is a risk of contact with equipment, other players, or hard surfaces.

For children and teenagers, dental injuries can be particularly concerning because permanent teeth are still developing and may require restorative treatment if damaged. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during practice and games is one practical step families can take to reduce the risk of injury.

Mouthguards may also help absorb some impact forces. While they are not a substitute for other protective equipment, a well-fitted guard can contribute to overall safety during physical activity.

Three Common Types of Sports Mouthguards

Not all mouthguards offer the same level of fit or comfort. Understanding the options can help you make an informed decision for your family.

1. Stock (Ready-Made) Mouthguards

These are pre-formed guards sold in standard sizes, typically small, medium, or large. They require no preparation before use. Stock guards are often the least expensive option and are widely available at pharmacies and sports retailers throughout Edmonton.

The main limitation is fit. Because they are not shaped to an individual mouth, stock guards may feel bulky, shift during activity, and make breathing or speaking more difficult. A guard that does not stay in place may offer less consistent protection when it is needed most.

2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Boil-and-bite guards are softened in hot water and then molded by biting down at home. They are a step up from stock guards because they can conform somewhat to the teeth, and many families choose them for convenience and cost.

However, home molding has limits. Without professional impressions, the guard may not cover all teeth evenly, may feel too thick in some areas, or may loosen over time as a child grows. Young athletes who play frequently — such as those in year-round hockey or competitive soccer leagues in the Edmonton area — may find that a boil-and-bite guard wears down or loses its shape faster than expected.

3. Custom-Fit Sports Mouthguards

A custom sports guard is made from impressions taken of the athlete's teeth. Your dentist uses these impressions to fabricate a guard designed specifically for that mouth. Custom guards are typically made for the upper teeth and are intended to provide a snug, stable fit.

Because the guard is tailored to the individual, it often stays in place better during running, jumping, and contact. Many athletes also find custom guards more comfortable, which can make it easier to wear them consistently — one of the most important factors in any protective device.

Where Store-Bought Guards May Fall Short

Store-bought mouthguards can be a reasonable starting point, especially for occasional recreational play. That said, there are several reasons parents and coaches in Millwoods ask us about upgrading to a custom option:

• Poor retention: A guard that slips or must be held in place with the jaw may not stay positioned during a collision or fall.
• Uneven coverage: If the guard does not cover all teeth properly, certain teeth may remain exposed to impact.
• Comfort and compliance: Bulky or ill-fitting guards are sometimes left on the bench. A guard only helps when it is actually worn.
• Growth and orthodontic changes: Children and teens outgrow boil-and-bite guards quickly. Braces and other orthodontic appliances also require a guard made to accommodate them.
• Durability: Lower-cost materials may wear through or deform with regular use, reducing effectiveness over a season.

None of this means every store-bought guard will fail. It means that for athletes in higher-contact sports or those who train frequently, a custom-fit guard may provide more reliable protection and comfort.

Benefits of a Dentist-Made Custom Sports Guard

When you visit Lakewood Dental Centre for a custom sports guard, the process typically includes an examination of the teeth and a discussion of the sports your child plays. Impressions are taken to capture the exact shape of the teeth and bite. The guard is then fabricated to match those specifications.

Custom guards offer several potential advantages:

• Precise fit: The guard is made for one mouth, which helps it stay seated during activity.
• Balanced thickness: Material can be distributed where protection is needed without unnecessary bulk elsewhere.
• Room for braces: Guards can be designed to fit over orthodontic appliances when required.
• Adjustability: Your dentist can assess the fit over time and make adjustments as your child grows or as wear occurs.
• Clearer speech and easier breathing: A better fit often means less interference with normal mouth function during play.

Custom guards do involve a higher upfront cost than off-the-shelf options. For many families, that investment reflects the level of activity, the contact intensity of the sport, and the desire for a guard that fits well enough to be worn every practice and game.

Popular Edmonton Sports Where Mouthguards Are Worth Considering

Edmonton youth participate in a wide range of activities. Mouthguards are commonly recommended or required in sports such as:

• Ice hockey and ringette
• Football and rugby
• Lacrosse and field hockey
• Basketball and volleyball
• Soccer
• Martial arts, wrestling, and boxing
• Skateboarding and BMX

Even in sports without mandatory mouthguard rules, a guard can still help protect against accidental contact — an elbow to the face during a basketball game, for example, or a fall on the ice.

If your child is just starting organized sports, our pediatric dentistry team can also help you plan for routine checkups alongside seasonal activities, so dental health stays on track as schedules get busier.

What to Do If a Dental Injury Occurs During Sport

Despite the best precautions, accidents can happen. If a tooth is knocked out, chipped, or loosened during a game, seek dental care promptly. For a knocked-out permanent tooth, gently rinse it without scrubbing, try to reinsert it if possible, or keep it moist in milk or saliva, and contact a dentist right away. Time matters in these situations.

Lakewood Dental Centre offers emergency dental care for our patients. If an injury occurs outside our regular hours, call us for guidance on next steps and where to seek urgent care in the Edmonton area.

Caring for Your Child's Sports Mouthguard

Proper care helps a mouthguard last through the season and stay hygienic:

• Rinse the guard with cool water before and after each use.
• Clean it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap; avoid hot water, which can warp the material.
• Store it in a ventilated case when not in use.
• Keep it away from direct sunlight and high heat — including leaving it in a hot car.
• Bring the guard to dental appointments so your dentist can check the fit and condition.
• Replace the guard if it shows cracks, thinning, or no longer fits securely.

Choosing the Right Guard for Your Young Athlete

The best mouthguard is one your child will wear consistently and that fits well enough to stay in place during activity. For casual, low-contact recreation, a properly fitted boil-and-bite guard may be sufficient. For athletes in contact sports, those with braces, or children who struggle to keep a store-bought guard in place, a custom sports guard from your dentist may be a worthwhile option to discuss.

Every child's mouth and activity level is different. A conversation with your dental team can help you weigh the benefits, costs, and timing — including whether a new guard is needed after a growth spurt or orthodontic adjustment.

Schedule a Custom Sports Guard at Lakewood Dental Centre

Lakewood Dental Centre is located at 2831 Mill Woods Rd NW in Millwoods, Edmonton. Dr. Jeff Dutka and Dr. Mandeep Gidda and our team can take impressions and help your young athlete get fitted for a custom sports guard designed for their specific needs.

To learn more or book an appointment, call us at 780-450-2331 or use our online booking option. We welcome new patients and are happy to answer questions about mouthguards, routine dental care, and keeping your family's smiles healthy through every season of sport.

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Dentists Millwoods, Edmonton