All About Sports Guards
Sports guards provide more than just protection for your teeth. They also safeguard braces, fixed dental appliances (such as bridges and dental implants), and provide added protection for the inside of your cheeks and lips from potential injuries caused by braces during accidents. Investing in a sports guard is highly recommended for individuals participating in activities and sports involving falls, body contact, or flying equipment. While any sports guard is better than none, a custom-made guard tailored to your mouth and teeth by your dental team offers unparalleled effectiveness and comfort.
So What Are Your Options?
Stock Sports Guards
Pre-formed sports guards, readily available at sporting goods stores, may not provide the best fit and can feel bulky in your mouth, causing difficulty in breathing and talking. Athletes often find themselves distracted by these ill-fitting guards, leading them to remove or play with them during the game.
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
Boil-and-bite sports guards are available in kits along with instructions. By boiling the blank guard in water and then biting into the plastic, you can mold the guard to fit your teeth. These guards, found at sporting goods stores, offer a better fit compared to stock guards. However, it’s important to note that this method may not suit everyone. If your boil-and-bite guard feels uncomfortable, bulky, or hinders breathing or speaking, it’s worth considering a custom-made guard for optimal comfort and protection.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
It’s no surprise that our favourite option is an individualized, custom-made mouthguard, and for good reason! A sports guard crafted specifically by our team provides unparalleled protection and comfort. In the rare instance that it doesn’t feel comfortable, we are here to make the necessary adjustments, and you can count on us to address any concerns you may have. Your satisfaction and well-being are our top priorities.
The Cost Of A Custom Sports Guard In Beamsville
The out-of-pocket cost for a custom sports guard can vary widely from patient to patient. With a typical insurance plan, a mouth guard usually averages out to about $100 to $300+. Without insurance, a custom mouth guard costs between $150 to $350 and up.
- The type of material your guard is made of.
- Consideration for ongoing orthodontic treatment.
So why does the cost of a custom mouthguard vary? There are two major factors:
Remember, no dental practice can provide an accurate quote over the phone. Ultimately, your needs are as unique as your smile. It’s important to speak with a dentist and undergo an oral exam to find out all your treatment options and to receive an accurate quote. If you have dental insurance, we would be happy to supply you with a quote to submit to them so you can find out your out-of-pocket costs before you make 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
Absolutely! While both mouthguards and nightguards are custom-fitted to your teeth, they serve distinct purposes for your teeth and jaw. Mouthguards are specifically designed to provide protection during sports or physical activities, shielding your mouth from potential impacts. On the other hand, night guards primarily focus on your bite, teeth alignment, and jaw position, aiming to alleviate issues related to teeth grinding or clenching during sleep. Each guard serves a unique function, catering to the specific needs of your oral health and well-being.
Ideally, sports guards should be replaced after each sports season. Over time, mouth guards can experience wear and tear, particularly if the wearer has a habit of chewing on or mistreating the guard. Additionally, as teeth can shift during adolescence, the fit of the guard may no longer be optimal. It is common for athletes involved in multiple sports to have a new sports guard made during their routine 6-month checkup to ensure proper protection and fit. Regular replacement of sports guards helps maintain their effectiveness and ensures the continued safety and comfort of the wearer.
A custom-fit sports guard should provide comfort while in your mouth, allowing for easy breathing and talking. If you find yourself fidgeting with the guard or removing it during crucial moments of the game, it may indicate an improper fit. It is important to ensure that your sports guard fits correctly to maximize both its protective capabilities and your overall performance.
A sports guard is highly recommended for any sport or activity that involves potential falls, contact with other players, or the risk of being hit by equipment or balls. If you or your child participate in football, hockey, lacrosse, baseball, soccer, field hockey, water polo, cricket, ringette, curling, skateboarding, gymnastics, mountain biking, wrestling, boxing, or any other contact or high-risk sport, it is important to consider using a sports guard for optimal protection.
You are strongly encouraged to wear a sports guard for enhanced protection! Not only does it safeguard your teeth, but it also provides crucial protection for your braces. In the event of an impact to the face, the sports guard also shields the inside of your lips and cheeks from potential harm caused by the braces. Prioritizing the use of a sports guard ensures comprehensive protection for your oral health and orthodontic treatment.
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