How Parents Can Ensure Kids Wear Gumshields Every Game

Getting your child to remember their kit is one thing.

Getting them to actually wear their gumshield every game? That’s another challenge entirely.

From “it’s uncomfortable” to “I forgot it” or simply refusing to wear it, many parents face the same struggle.

But when it comes to protecting their teeth, consistency matters.

The good news?

With the right approach, wearing a gumshield can become second nature.

Why Wearing a Gumshield Every Game Matters

A gumshield (mouthguard) is one of the simplest ways to prevent serious dental injuries in sport.

Without one, children are at risk of:

• Chipped or broken teeth

• Knocked-out teeth

• Cuts to lips and gums

• Costly and stressful dental treatment

  
  

For parents, it’s not just about compliance, it’s about protection and peace of mind.

If you’re unsure what to look for, our gumshield safety and compliance guide explains what standards matter for schools and sports clubs.

The Real Reasons Kids Don’t Wear Gumshields

Before solving the problem, it helps to understand it.

Most children don’t refuse without a reason:

• Poor fit – uncomfortable or bulky

• Breathing or talking difficulty

• Forgetting it in the rush

• Not understanding why it matters

Addressing these barriers is key to building long-term habits.

Start with the Right Fit

If a gumshield doesn’t fit properly, children won’t wear it. Simple as that.

A well-fitted gumshield should:

• Stay in place without needing to bite down

• Feel comfortable and secure

• Allow easy breathing and communication

If your child struggles with fit, follow our boil-and-bite fitting guide to get the best possible result at home.

Make It Non-Negotiable (Like Shin Pads or Boots)

Children are used to rules in sport.

Position the gumshield as:

• A required part of their kit

• Something they wear every time, no exceptions

When it becomes a standard expectation, resistance tends to fade.

Build It Into Their Routine

Consistency removes friction.

Simple habits make a big difference:

• Gumshield goes into the bag first, not last

• Check it the night before (alongside boots and kit)

• Clean and store it immediately after training

If needed, keep a spare—especially during busy match periods.

Get Coaches and Teams Involved

Children are more likely to follow rules when they’re reinforced by coaches and teammates.

Encourage:

• Team-wide expectations around gumshield use

• Coaches doing quick visual checks before play

• Clubs recommending approved gumshields

For schools and clubs, having access to reliable gumshields in bulk makes this easier to manage consistently.

Help Them Understand Why It Matters

Children are more likely to comply when they understand the “why.”

Keep it simple:

• “This protects your teeth if you get knocked”

• “It helps you stay on the pitch”

Real understanding builds better habits than repeated reminders.

Choose a Gumshield They Actually Want to Wear

This is often overlooked.

Small details make a difference:

• Colour they like

• Comfortable fit

• Not too bulky

If they like it, they’re far more likely to wear it.

Explore our range of gumshields for children designed for comfort, fit, and everyday use in schools and clubs.

Common Mistakes Parents Can Avoid

Even with the best intentions, a few common mistakes can undermine consistency:

• Accepting “I forgot” too easily

• Using poorly fitted or old gumshields

• Not having a backup option

• Treating it as optional rather than essential

Fix these, and compliance improves quickly.

Make Safety a Habit

You don’t need to argue before every game.

With the right fit, routine, and expectations, wearing a gumshield becomes automatic—just like putting on boots.

And that means one less thing to worry about on the sidelines.

How can I get my child to wear a gumshield?

Start by ensuring the gumshield fits properly and is comfortable. Build it into their routine, make it a non-negotiable part of their kit, and help them understand why it’s important for their safety.

Why do kids refuse to wear gumshields?

Most children refuse due to poor fit, discomfort, difficulty breathing, or simply forgetting. Addressing these issues usually improves compliance quickly.

How should a gumshield fit properly?

A gumshield should fit snugly over the teeth, stay in place without biting down, and allow comfortable breathing and talking.

Are gumshields mandatory in school sports?

Many schools and sports clubs strongly recommend or require gumshields for contact sports to reduce the risk of dental injuries.

What happens if a child doesn’t wear a gumshield?

Without a gumshield, children are at greater risk of dental injuries such as broken or knocked-out teeth, which can require emergency treatment.

Share our boil and bite fitting guide with your team parents today to help ensure every child has a comfortable, properly fitted gumshield, and actually wears it.