Gumshield Care Tips: Helping Kids Take Responsibility for Their Mouthguard
- alisonpitt
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Getting children ready for school is one thing. Getting them ready for sport is another.
Somewhere between the school bag, PE kit, football boots and water bottle… things go missing.
And more often than not, it’s the gumshield.
For parents, this often means repeatedly replacing lost or damaged mouthguards. For children, it’s just another thing to remember. But building simple habits around responsibility doesn’t just save money, it helps protect their teeth during sport.
Why Kids Taking Responsibility for Their Gumshield Matters
A gumshield isn’t just another item in the kit bag, it’s essential protection.
In contact sports, forgetting or neglecting a gumshield can lead to:
Increased risk of dental injuries
Emergency dental treatment
Missed matches or training
Unnecessary stress for parents
Helping children take responsibility for their gumshield teaches them that safety isn’t optional, it’s part of playing sport.
How to Help Kids Remember Their Gumshield
Children don’t forget on purpose; they just haven’t built habits yet.
Here are simple ways to help:
Build It Into a Routine
Link gumshield use to habits they already have:
After brushing teeth → check gumshield is clean
Packing their sports kit → gumshield goes in first
After training → clean and store it properly
Consistency builds memory.
If your child struggles with comfort or fit, it may be worth reviewing how it’s been moulded using our boil & bite fitting guide.
Encourage Ownership (Don’t Do It for Them)
It’s quicker to pack the bag yourself—but long term, it doesn’t help.
Instead:
Let them pack their own kit bag
Ask: “Have you got your gumshield?”
Make them responsible for cleaning it
Even younger children can learn responsibility with the right guidance.
Having a gumshield that fits comfortably makes this much easier, see our range of gumshields for children designed for everyday use.
Make It Easy to Find
Lost gumshields are often just poorly stored ones.
To avoid this:
Keep it in a dedicated gumshield case
Choose a bright or recognisable colour
Store it in the same place every time
If it has a “home,” it’s less likely to be forgotten.
Gumshield Care Tips: Helping Kids Take Responsibility for Their Mouthguard
Looking after a gumshield properly is just as important as remembering it.
Here are essential gumshield care tips every parent should know:
1. Rinse After Every Use
Rinse with cold water to remove bacteria and debris.
2. Clean It Regularly
Use a toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid hot water, it can distort the shape.
3. Dry Before Storing
Always allow it to air dry before placing it in a case.
4. Use a Ventilated Case
A proper case keeps the gumshield clean and protected.
5. Check the Fit Frequently
Children grow quickly. A poor fit reduces protection.
6. Replace When Necessary
If it’s chewed, damaged, or no longer fits, it won’t do its job.
Teaching Responsibility Through Sport
Encouraging children to manage their own sports kit, including their gumshield, helps develop:
Independence
Accountability
Awareness of personal safety
These are habits that extend far beyond the pitch or playground.
Common Gumshield Mistakes Parents Can Avoid
To keep things practical, here are a few common pitfalls:
Leaving gumshields loose in kit bags
Cleaning with hot water (causes warping)
Not replacing outgrown mouthguards
Forgetting a spare for match days
A little preparation goes a long way.
Final Thought: It Starts Small
You’re not just reminding them to pack a gumshield.
You’re helping them build habits that support their safety, confidence, and independence.
And sometimes, that starts with something as simple as remembering one small piece of kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean a child’s gumshield properly?
To clean a child’s gumshield, rinse it in cold water after each use and brush it gently with a toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid hot water, as this can distort the shape and affect the fit. Always allow it to dry fully before storing it in a ventilated case.
How often should a child replace their gumshield?
Children should replace their gumshield whenever it becomes damaged, chewed, or no longer fits properly. Because children grow quickly, it’s important to regularly check the fit—typically every few months during active sports seasons.
What is the best way to store a gumshield?
A gumshield should always be stored in a clean, ventilated case. This protects it from dirt and damage while allowing it to dry properly, reducing the risk of bacteria build-up.
Can a damaged gumshield still be used?
No, a damaged or heavily chewed gumshield should not be used. It will not provide proper protection and may fit poorly, increasing the risk of injury.
What happens if a gumshield doesn’t fit properly?
A poorly fitting gumshield can feel uncomfortable, fall out easily, and offer reduced protection. If your child complains about fit or it feels loose or tight, it should be remoulded (if possible) or replaced.
If your child’s gumshield has been lost, damaged, or outgrown, it may be time for a replacement.
Browse the Game Guard range of comfortable, UKCA & CE approved gumshields, designed for everyday use in schools and sports clubs.
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