All About Sports Guards
Sports guards aren’t just for protecting teeth—they’re great for shielding braces, dental appliances like bridges and implants, and even the inside of your cheeks and lips from injury. If you’re active in sports or activities that involve falls, contact, or flying equipment, having a sports guard is a wise choice. And while any guard is better than going without, nothing beats the comfort and protection of a custom-made guard from your dental team.
So What Are Your Options?
Stock Sports Guards
Pre-formed and ready to wear, these guards are available at sporting goods stores but often lack a proper fit, can feel bulky, and make talking or breathing difficult. Many athletes find them distracting, often removing or adjusting them during play.
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
Sold in kits with instructions, you soften the guard by boiling it and then bite into it to mold it to your teeth. They offer a better fit than stock guards and are also available at sporting goods stores, but they may still be uncomfortable, bulky, or impede breathing or speech. If that’s the case, a custom guard is the way to go.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
Our top choice for good reason! A custom-made mouthguard offers unmatched protection and comfort. Crafted specifically for your mouth, this type of guard ensures a perfect fit, and if it needs adjustments, we’re here to make sure it’s just right for you.
The Cost of a Custom Sports Guard in Oakdale
Why does the cost of a custom mouthguard vary? It often depends on the type of material used and whether you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. Since every smile is unique, a personalized quote requires an in-person dental exam. We encourage you to speak with a dentist to explore your options and receive an accurate quote. If you have dental insurance, we can provide a quote for submission, so you’ll know your out-of-pocket costs before making a decision.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While both mouthguards and nightguards are snugly fitted to your teeth, they serve different purposes. Sports guards are designed to protect against impact, while nightguards focus on your bite and the position of your teeth and jaw.
They’re all the same—different names for a device worn over your teeth to protect them from injury or reduce injury severity.
Ideally, sports guards should be replaced after each season. They can wear down over time, especially if chewed on, and shifting teeth in adolescents can affect the fit. Many athletes get a new guard at their routine 6-month checkup.
A custom-fit sports guard should be comfortable, allowing you to breathe and talk easily. If you find yourself fidgeting with it or removing it during play, it may not fit properly.
Any sport or activity with a risk of falls, contact, or being struck by equipment warrants a sports guard. This includes football, hockey, lacrosse, baseball, soccer, water polo, cricket, skateboarding, gymnastics, wrestling, boxing, and more.
Absolutely, and it’s even more important. A sports guard not only protects your teeth but also shields your braces and the inside of your lips and cheeks from injury during impact.
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