
All About Sports Guards
Sports guards go beyond just protecting your teeth—they also safeguard braces, dental appliances like bridges and implants, and shield the inside of your cheeks and lips during accidents. A sports guard is a smart investment for anyone involved in activities or sports that may involve falls, body contact, or flying equipment. While any guard is better than none, a custom-made guard from your dental team offers the best fit and protection for your mouth.
So, What Are Your Options?
Stock Sports Guards
Pre-formed and ready to wear, these guards are available at sporting goods stores. They tend to have a poor fit, can feel bulky, and may make breathing or talking difficult, often distracting athletes who might remove or adjust them during play.
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
These kits let you boil the guard and bite into it to mould it to your teeth, offering a better fit than stock guards. Available at sporting goods stores, they can be more comfortable but may still feel bulky or restrictive. If yours is uncomfortable, a custom guard may be a better choice.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
Our favourite option, and for good reason! A custom-made mouthguard offers unmatched protection and comfort. Plus, if it needs adjustments, we’re here to ensure it fits perfectly, making sure you’re satisfied with the result.
The Cost of a Custom Sports Guard
The cost of a custom sports guard can range widely, typically averaging between $100 to $300+ with insurance, and between $150 to $350 or more without insurance. The variation in cost depends mainly on the type of material used and whether it needs to accommodate ongoing orthodontic treatment.
Since every patient’s needs are unique, it’s best to consult a dentist for a thorough oral exam to determine your options and receive an accurate quote. If you have dental insurance, we can provide a quote for you to submit, 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, they serve different purposes. Mouthguards are designed to protect your mouth from impact during sports, while nightguards focus on supporting your bite and aligning your teeth and jaw while you sleep.
These terms all refer to the same thing: a device worn over your teeth to protect them from injury or lessen the severity of an injury.
Ideally, sports guards should be replaced after each sports season. They can wear down, especially if chewed or misused, and teeth shifts in adolescents can affect the fit. Many athletes opt for a new guard during their routine 6-month checkups.
A properly fitting sports guard should feel comfortable and allow you to breathe and speak easily. If you find yourself constantly adjusting it or removing it during play, it may not fit well.
Sports guards are recommended for any activity where falls, contact with other players, or hits from balls or equipment are possible. This includes football, hockey, lacrosse, baseball, soccer, water polo, boxing, wrestling, skateboarding, mountain biking, and more.
Absolutely, and it’s especially important! A sports guard protects your teeth and braces and shields the inside of your lips and cheeks from injury if you’re hit in the face.