All About Sports Guards
Sports guards are essential for protecting more than just your teeth. They provide an added layer of defence for braces, bridges, dental implants, and other fixed dental appliances. Additionally, they shield the inside of your cheeks and lips from injury in case of an impact, especially if you have braces. Whether you’re playing a sport involving falls, physical contact, or flying equipment, a sports guard is a smart investment. While any sports guard offers some protection, nothing compares to a custom-made guard from your dentist, tailored specifically to fit your mouth for optimal comfort and safety.
So What Are Your Options?
Stock Sports Guards
Stock sports guards come pre-formed and ready to wear, available at most sporting goods stores. While they are convenient, they often don’t fit well and can feel bulky, making it difficult to breathe or talk comfortably. Many athletes find these guards distracting and may take them out during games, which compromises their protection.
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
Boil & bite guards are a step up in customization. You heat the guard in boiling water, then bite down to mold it to your teeth. While they provide a better fit than stock guards, they still might not be ideal for everyone. If your boil & bite guard feels uncomfortable or bulky, or if it makes it difficult to breathe or speak, you might want to consider a custom option.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
Our top recommendation! Custom-made mouthguards are tailored specifically to fit your teeth and mouth. Made by your dental team, they offer the best protection and are designed for maximum comfort. If adjustments are needed, we’re here to make sure your guard fits perfectly. Custom-made sports guards provide unparalleled safety and are well worth the investment for serious athletes.
The Cost of a Custom Sports Guard in Drayton
The cost of a custom sports guard can vary based on individual needs. For patients with insurance, the cost typically ranges from $100 to $300 or more, depending on the specifics of your plan. Without insurance, you can expect to pay between $150 to $350 or higher for a custom mouthguard.
Several factors contribute to the cost variation, including the type of material used to create the guard and whether you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Since each patient’s situation is unique, it’s impossible to provide an accurate quote over the phone. The best way to get a personalized estimate is to consult with a dentist, who can perform an oral exam and review your options. If you have dental insurance, we can supply you with a detailed quote to submit to your provider, 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, mouthguards and nightguards serve different purposes. While both are snugly fitted to your teeth, sports guards are designed to protect your mouth from impact, while nightguards are focused on managing your bite and aligning your jaw and teeth, particularly to prevent grinding or clenching.
These are just different terms for the same device—a protective guard worn over your teeth to prevent injury or reduce the severity of an impact-related injury.
Sports guards should ideally be replaced after each season, as they can wear down over time, especially if the user tends to chew on the guard. For adolescents, teeth shifting as they grow may also affect the fit. Many athletes get new sports guards made during their routine 6-month dental checkup.
A good sports guard should feel comfortable, making it easy to breathe and speak without discomfort. If you find yourself adjusting or removing it during play, it might not fit properly and should be checked or replaced.
Sports guards are recommended for any activity that involves the risk of falling, contact with other players, or being struck by equipment. This includes football, hockey, lacrosse, soccer, baseball, field hockey, water polo, cricket, wrestling, boxing, skateboarding, gymnastics, mountain biking, curling, and more.
Absolutely! In fact, it’s even more important. A sports guard not only protects your teeth but also shields your braces and prevents injury to the inside of your lips and cheeks in the event of a hit to the face.
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