Guarding Young Smiles: How to Communicate the Importance of Gumshields to Parents

alisonpitt
Jan 22
3 min read

Updated: Apr 1

As a regular volunteer coach at my son’s rugby club, I know firsthand the challenges of keeping players safe. It can feel like a constant uphill struggle. From convincing parents to invest in a gumshield to dealing with kids' complaints about discomfort.

I get it—parents are busy juggling a million things, so spending on a gumshield might not seem like a top priority.

But as coaches, we see the bigger picture. It's not just about enforcing a rule—it's about ensuring kids stay safe, giving parents peace of mind, and allowing players to enjoy the game without facing avoidable setbacks.

A gumshield may seem like a small investment, but its impact on player safety is huge.

Let’s work together to make the case: protecting young players is worth it.

Speaking Their Language

Communication is essential. Parents are overwhelmed with responsibilities. Between school drop-offs, after-school activities, and everyday chaos, safety messages can easily get lost. The key to resonating with parents is to keep it simple and relatable.

Instead of diving into technical jargon, I always frame the conversation around what parents care about most: their child’s well-being.

"Would you let your child ride a bike without a helmet? Then why let them play rugby without a gumshield?"

This analogy often makes the point crystal clear.

Mouthguards for kids—whether a boil-and-bite gum shield or a custom-fit one—are their helmets for contact sports.

Addressing Common Pushbacks

One of the most significant barriers I’ve faced is the misconception that gum shields are unnecessary or uncomfortable. When parents say, “My child doesn’t like wearing one,” I explain how Game Guard boil-and-bite mouthguards offer a comfortable, custom fit.

Our UKCA- and CE-approved gumshields are designed specifically for kids, ensuring protection without sacrificing comfort.

Another common concern is cost. It’s tempting to skimp on something that might get lost or chewed up. However, I emphasise the long-term savings—in avoided dental bills—which usually puts things into perspective. Affordable options like Game Guard’s boil-and-bite junior gum shields are a practical solution.

Making It Easier for Parents

To help parents take action, schools and clubs can implement several strategies:

Provide Guidance: Share clear information on why gumshields are essential and how to choose the right one.
Run Fitting Sessions: Partner with suppliers to host mouthguard fitting days at your school or club.
Send Reminders: A quick email or newsletter mention before the season starts can make all the difference.

These actions can empower parents and increase the use of gumshields.

Changing the Narrative

I’ve learned that getting parents on board is about painting a picture of the "what ifs" while empowering them with solutions.

Imagine this: It’s a bright Saturday morning, the first rugby match of the season. Your players are geared up, every one of them wearing a mouthguard. You feel at ease knowing you’ve done everything to ensure their safety. That’s the goal.

Together, we can protect young smiles and ensure the love of sports is never overshadowed by preventable injuries.

Why Invest in Gumshields: The Bottom Line

In the end, the conversation isn't just about a piece of equipment. Investing in a gumshield for your child is an investment in their health and future. Protecting their smiles will allow them to enjoy the game fully.

Let’s make mouthguards, whether it’s a gum shield for rugby, hockey, or football, a non-negotiable part of the kit.