If your child plays sports—whether it’s hockey, soccer, basketball, football, or even gymnastics—you’ve probably thought about ways to keep them safe. Helmets, shin guards, and pads are all standard, but many parents overlook one of the most important pieces of equipment: a mouth guard.

Mouth guards protect kids from broken teeth, lip injuries, and even jaw problems. But here’s the catch: not all mouth guards are created equal. While over-the-counter versions are easy to buy at the store, they often don’t provide the protection kids really need. At North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Cameron Zealand recommends custom-made mouth guards as the gold standard for keeping kids’ smiles safe.

The Problem with Store-Bought Mouth Guards

It’s tempting to grab a “boil-and-bite” mouth guard from the pharmacy. They’re inexpensive, quick to fit, and marketed as one-size-fits-all. Unfortunately, these mouth guards are often bulky, uncomfortable, and poorly fitted.

Here’s why that’s a problem:

• Poor Fit – Kids’ mouths are still growing, and a one-size guard simply doesn’t match their teeth and bite. Loose guards slip around and don’t stay in place during play.
  
• Reduced Protection – Because they don’t fit snugly, store-bought guards don’t absorb impact as effectively, leaving teeth and jaws vulnerable.
  
• Breathing & Speaking Difficulties – Many kids complain that they can’t talk clearly or breathe properly with a bulky, poorly fitting guard. That makes them less likely to wear it consistently.
  
• False Sense of Security – Parents may believe their child is protected, but an ill-fitting guard can actually increase the risk of injury.
  

Why Custom-Made Mouth Guards Are Worth It

Custom-made mouth guards are designed specifically for your child’s mouth. At North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Zealand takes an impression of your child’s teeth and uses it to create a guard that fits perfectly.

The benefits of going custom include:

• Superior Protection – A snug fit means the guard won’t slip or move, even during intense activity. It disperses impact forces evenly, lowering the risk of broken teeth, jaw injuries, and even concussions.
  
• Comfort – Kids are much more likely to wear a guard that feels natural. A custom mouth guard is thinner, lighter, and far more comfortable than a generic version.
  
• Better Breathing & Speaking – Because the fit is exact, kids can breathe easily and communicate with teammates without feeling restricted.
  
• Durability – Custom guards are made from high-quality materials that last longer, making them a better investment in the long run.
  

Growing Smiles Need Special Attention

Children’s mouths are constantly changing as they grow and lose baby teeth. That’s why a pediatric dentist like Dr. Cameron Zealand is the best person to create a guard that accounts for these changes. He understands how children’s jaws develop and ensures that the guard not only fits now, but also provides room for healthy growth.

Regular checkups also mean that Dr. Zealand can monitor when your child’s guard needs to be updated to match their new teeth and bite.

The Bigger Picture: Protecting More Than Just Teeth

Sports injuries don’t just affect teeth—they can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, and even jaw joints. In some cases, a hit to the mouth without proper protection can cause long-term damage that requires orthodontic or restorative treatment later in life.

A custom-made mouth guard helps prevent these issues, protecting not only your child’s smile but also their overall oral development. For active kids, it’s an essential part of sports safety gear.

Why Parents Trust Dr. Cameron Zealand

As a pediatric dentist, Dr. Zealand understands children’s unique needs. He knows that kids won’t wear something uncomfortable or hard to use—so he makes sure their custom mouth guards are lightweight, effective, and designed to fit comfortably. Parents can rest easy knowing their child’s teeth are well-protected, while kids enjoy a guard that doesn’t get in the way of their game.

Protect Your Child’s Smile Today

Over-the-counter mouth guards might seem like an easy option, but when it comes to protecting your child’s teeth, custom-made is the only choice that truly works.

At North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Cameron Zealand can create a mouth guard tailored to your child’s smile—providing superior protection, comfort, and peace of mind.

Book an appointment today and give your child the best defense for their growing smile.