Sports Mouthguards for Kids: Which Sports Need Them, Types, and Custom vs Store-Bought

Keep Smiling Dental · Sector 39, Gurugram · Updated 2026-08-23

If your child plays sports, a mouthguard is one of the simplest ways to prevent painful and expensive dental injuries. Many parents in Sector 39, Gurugram ask us which sports really need a mouthguard and whether the store-bought kind is good enough. Here is a clear, practical guide.

Which sports need a mouthguard

Any sport with a risk of falls, collisions, or flying equipment calls for a mouthguard. Some sports carry higher risk than others, but injuries can happen in almost any active game.

• High-risk contact sports: football, rugby, boxing, martial arts, hockey, and kabaddi
• Moderate-risk sports: basketball, cricket (especially wicketkeeping and batting), skateboarding, cycling, and gymnastics
• Lower-risk but still worth considering: badminton doubles, volleyball, and skating, where accidental elbow or ball contact can occur

As a general rule, if there is contact with other players, hard equipment, or a hard surface, a mouthguard is a sensible precaution.

Types of mouthguards for kids

1. Stock mouthguards

These come pre-formed in standard sizes and are the cheapest option. They are bulky, often fit poorly, and can make breathing and talking difficult. We generally do not recommend these for regular use.

2. Boil-and-bite mouthguards

These are softened in hot water and then bitten into to create a rough mould of the teeth. They fit better than stock guards and are widely available at sports stores in Gurugram. They are a reasonable choice for occasional or casual play, though the fit is never as precise as a custom guard.

3. Custom-fitted mouthguards

Made from a mould of your child's own teeth at the dental clinic, these offer the best fit, comfort, and protection. They stay in place better during play, are easier to talk and breathe through, and are more comfortable for long practice sessions.

Custom vs store-bought: what matters

Store-bought guards are convenient and affordable, and they are certainly better than no mouthguard at all. However, custom guards tend to be thinner in the right places while still protecting the areas that need it most, so children are more likely to actually wear them consistently.

For children who play sport regularly, wear braces, or have had a previous dental injury, a custom mouthguard is usually worth the extra cost. For children trying a new sport casually, a good-quality boil-and-bite option is a fair starting point.

Typical costs in Sector 39, Gurugram

Costs vary depending on the type of guard and whether your child wears braces. As a general guide for families near Sector 39, Gurugram:

• Boil-and-bite guards (store purchase): typical range Rs 300 to Rs 1,200
• Custom-fitted mouthguard at a dental clinic: typical range Rs 1,500 to Rs 4,000
• Custom guard designed for braces: typical range Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000

These are only general estimates and the exact cost depends on the material used and your child's specific needs. We are happy to discuss options during a visit.

Caring for your child's mouthguard

• Rinse with cool water before and after every use
• Clean occasionally with a soft toothbrush and mild soap, then rinse well
• Store in a ventilated, hard case to avoid warping
• Keep away from direct sunlight or hot places, such as a car dashboard
• Check regularly for tears, thinning, or a loose fit

A well-fitted mouthguard, worn consistently, is one of the easiest ways to protect your child's smile while they enjoy sport. If you are unsure which type suits your child, our team at Keep Smiling Dental near Medanta, Sector 39, Gurugram can help you decide.

Treatment costs mentioned on this page are indicative ranges for the Sector 39, Gurugram region. Your exact cost depends on your case and will be confirmed after a clinical examination at the clinic.