Preventive Care · Arlington, VA
Custom Sports Mouth Guards for Kids in Arlington, VA
Protect your young athlete’s teeth, jaw, and smile with a custom-fitted mouth guard — designed specifically for their mouth, not a generic one-size-fits-all.
Does My Child Really Need a Mouth Guard?
If your child plays any contact or collision sport, the answer is yes. Dental injuries are among the most common sports injuries in children — and most of them are entirely preventable with the right protection.
A single sports-related dental injury can mean a knocked-out tooth, a cracked tooth, a jaw fracture, or damage to permanent teeth that lasts a lifetime. Treatment for these injuries is costly, time-consuming, and stressful for your child.
A properly fitted mouth guard costs a fraction of that — and takes less than one appointment.
Which Sports Require a Mouth Guard?
The American Dental Association recommends mouth guards for all of the following sports:
Custom vs. Store-Bought: Why It Matters
Not all mouth guards are created equal. Here’s how a custom-fitted guard from Dr. O compares to a generic store-bought option:
- ✓ Made from an impression of your child’s exact teeth
- ✓ Stays in place during activity
- ✓ Comfortable enough to wear consistently
- ✓ Allows normal breathing and speaking
- ✓ Maximum shock absorption
- ✓ Lasts 1-2 seasons with proper care
- ✓ Can be made in team colors
- ✗ Generic fit — not made for your child’s mouth
- ✗ Falls out easily during play
- ✗ Uncomfortable — kids often don’t wear them
- ✗ Restricts breathing and speaking
- ✗ Limited protection
- ✗ Wears out quickly
- ✗ Limited color options
How the Custom Mouth Guard Process Works
Getting a custom mouth guard at Children’s Dentistry of Arlington is quick and easy — usually done in a single visit.
Dental Impression
Dr. O takes a quick, precise impression of your child’s teeth. This is the mold that makes the guard fit perfectly — it takes just a few minutes and is completely comfortable.
Custom Fabrication
The impression is sent to a dental lab where your child’s mouth guard is professionally fabricated from high-quality, durable material — built to last a full sports season.
Fitting & Adjustments
When the guard is ready, your child comes in for a fitting. Dr. O checks the fit, makes any adjustments needed, and makes sure your child is comfortable wearing it.
Care Instructions
Dr. O will walk you through how to clean and store the mouth guard properly so it stays in great condition throughout the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
As soon as your child starts playing contact sports — regardless of age. Even children with baby teeth can benefit from mouth guard protection. Dr. O will advise on the best type of guard based on your child’s age and dental development.
Custom mouth guards typically cost between $150-$300, depending on the type and materials. Many dental insurance plans cover mouth guards — especially when recommended for a child who plays contact sports. Call us at (703) 634-9450 to check your coverage before the appointment.
A well-made custom mouth guard typically lasts one to two sports seasons with proper care. Children who are still growing may need a new one more frequently as their teeth and jaw change. Dr. O will check the fit at regular checkups.
Yes — and it’s even more important to wear one with braces. A mouth injury with braces can damage both the teeth and the orthodontic hardware. Dr. O can make a special mouth guard designed to fit over braces comfortably and safely.
Rinse it with cold water before and after each use. Clean it with a toothbrush and mild soap — not toothpaste, which can be abrasive. Store it in a ventilated case and keep it away from heat. Bring it to dental checkups so Dr. O can inspect it for wear.
Yes! Custom mouth guards can be made in a variety of colors — including team colors. Kids are much more likely to wear their mouth guard consistently when they actually like how it looks. Ask us about color options when you book.
Protecting Arlington’s Young Athletes
At Children’s Dentistry of Arlington, we work with young athletes from across Arlington, Falls Church, McLean, Tysons Corner, and Northern Virginia. Whether your child plays rec league soccer or competitive travel baseball, we’ll make sure their smile is protected all season long.
Dr. O and his team make the process easy and fast — most families are in and out in one short visit for the impression, and the finished guard is ready within a week or two.
We accept most insurance plans. Call us to check your child’s coverage before booking.