Mouthguards for children: what size does your child need for kickboxing?
Junior or adult mouthguard? Find out which size your child needs for kickboxing, when to move up a size and what to look for in fit, moulding and braces.
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Your child is starting kickboxing and a mouthguard is on the equipment list. But which size should you choose: junior or adult? And why does a child need a mouthguard when training mainly focuses on technique?
For many mouthguards, the guideline is: junior up to and including age 11, senior from age 12. This is a useful guide, rather than a fixed rule for every brand or every mouth. Below, we explain how to choose a mouthguard for children, when to move up a size and what to check when fitting it.
Why does your child need a mouthguard for kickboxing?
A mouthguard, also called a gum shield, helps reduce the risk of dental and mouth injuries. The material absorbs some of the impact and creates a buffer between the teeth and soft tissues, such as the lips and cheeks.
An accident during children’s training does not have to involve a hard punch. Unexpected contact during a partner drill or a collision can also affect the mouth. That is why a well-fitting sports mouthguard is an important part of the equipment whenever contact is possible. The same applies to other combat sports, such as boxing, karate, Muay Thai and grappling.
A mouthguard does not automatically make training safe. Good supervision and exercises suited to your child’s age and experience are still necessary. Ask the coach what protection is required for the class.
Junior or adult mouthguard: which size suits which age?
The name can be confusing: a twelve-year-old is still a child, but many brands already recommend an adult mouthguard at that age. Senior or adult refers to the size of the mouthguard, rather than the athlete’s skill level.
| Age or situation | Usual choice | What should you check? |
|---|---|---|
| Up to and including age 11 | Often a junior mouthguard | Check the age guidance for the specific model. |
| From age 12 | A senior or adult mouthguard for many brands | Check that it fits securely and provides enough room. |
| Braces | A suitable orthodontic mouthguard | Discuss the choice with the orthodontist. |
For its Extro Series, for example, SAFEJAWZ specifies junior up to and including age 11 and senior from age 12. Other brands use a different age limit: OPRO offers sizes for children under 10 and ages 10 and above, among others. Always check the product information.
Mouth size and dental development also matter. The age shown on the packaging helps you choose, but the final fit determines whether the mouthguard is suitable.
When should you move up to an adult mouthguard?
Check the size again around the recommended age limit. Do not wait for a birthday if the current mouthguard feels tight or no longer fits properly. Children grow and their teeth change, so a mouthguard that used to fit can become too small or less secure.
Do not buy a loose mouthguard for your child to grow into, either. It needs to be comfortable to wear now. If you are unsure between two sizes, ask for advice about the model you have chosen.
How can you tell whether a children’s mouthguard fits properly?
A correctly fitting mouthguard should feel comfortable and secure. After moulding, check that:
- it stays in place without your child constantly having to bite down hard;
- your child can breathe comfortably and speak clearly;
- the edges do not press, poke or rub;
- the mouthguard covers the teeth properly and does not move loosely inside the mouth.
Let your child try it on calmly before the first training session. If you cannot achieve a good fit, contact us for advice. A dentist can assess whether a custom-made mouthguard would be a better solution.
Moulding a children’s mouthguard: follow the instructions
Many sports mouthguards are boil-and-bite: you heat the material and mould it to the teeth. Children should do this with an adult.
Follow the brand’s instructions. The time in hot water and the cooling method vary between models. Do not use a random boiling time found online. Before placing the mouthguard in the mouth, check that it is safe to do so, and assess the fit afterwards. Only remould it if the manufacturer allows this.
Which mouthguard does a child with braces need?
Braces require extra care. Not every sports mouthguard is suitable for them. A correctly fitting orthodontic mouthguard allows room for the braces and helps prevent brackets from pressing against the lips and cheeks during contact.
Ask the orthodontist which model suits the braces and whether protection for both the upper and lower teeth is needed. Do not wear a regular mouthguard over braces if the brand advises against it. The fit can also change during orthodontic treatment.
Cleaning and replacement
Rinse the mouthguard before and after use and clean it according to the product instructions. Store it clean and dry in a sturdy, ventilated case. Do not leave it in a hot car or in direct sunlight.
Replace it if it is cracked, worn, deformed or fits poorly. Check the fit regularly in children, especially when they lose baby teeth or the position of their teeth changes. Do not share a mouthguard with a training partner.
Frequently asked questions about children’s mouthguards
Does a twelve-year-old need an adult mouthguard?
For many brands, yes. Choose according to the size chart for the specific mouthguard, then check the fit. “Adult” means the larger size here.
Is a mouthguard needed if there are no punches to the head?
Unexpected contact with the mouth can still happen. Discuss with the coach which exercises the class includes and when a mouthguard must be worn.
Is a night guard for teeth grinding suitable for kickboxing?
Choose a mouthguard explicitly designed for sport. A night guard serves a different purpose and is not automatically suitable as sports protection.
Choosing a well-fitting mouthguard at Kickboxing-shop.nl
Browse our mouthguards for kickboxing and combat sports and check each model’s size and instructions for use. For children aged 12 and above, you could consider the Flow Fightgear Multisports Gel Mouthguard – Adult; according to the product information, this model is intended for ages 12 and above.
Want to learn more about the different types? Read our article on the best mouthguard for children who do kickboxing. Unsure about the size? Contact us with your child’s age and the model you are considering.
