Sports injuries can cause chipped, fractured, loose, or knocked-out teeth. A properly fitted mouthguard provides a protective barrier between your teeth and surrounding soft tissues.
How Does a Custom Sports Mouthguard Work?
Getting a custom sport guard is simple:
- Dental assessment: We evaluate your teeth, bite, and existing dental work.
- Impression or digital scan: Your teeth are accurately recorded for fabrication.
- Custom fabrication: The mouthguard is made to your individual dental anatomy.
- Fit check: We make sure the guard fits comfortably and securely.
Sports Mouthguards for Kids
Children and teenagers participating in sports can benefit from an appropriately fitted mouthguard. Because their teeth and jaws change as they grow, their mouthguard should be checked regularly to make sure it still fits properly. Our dental team can help parents choose an appropriate kids mouth guard based on the child’s age, teeth, and sport.
Sports Mouthguard vs. Night Guard
A sports mouthguard and a night guard have different purposes. Sports mouthguards protect the teeth during athletic activities, while night guards are generally used to protect teeth from grinding or clenching during sleep. If you’re unsure which appliance you need, a dental assessment can help determine the appropriate option.
What Happens When You Get a Custom Sports Mouthguard?
Getting a custom sports mouthguard is straightforward. Your dentist will assess your teeth and bite and take a dental impression or digital scan. The information is then used to create a mouthguard designed to fit your teeth comfortably and securely.
When Should I Wear My Sports Mouthguard?
Wear your sports mouthguard during practices, games, and other athletic activities where there is a risk of contact or impact. Consistent use helps provide protection throughout your sporting activity.
Benefits of Sports Mouthguards
A properly fitted sports mouthguard can help reduce the risk of:
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Injuries to the lips, cheeks, and gums
- Damage to certain dental restorations
Custom mouthguards are designed for your individual teeth and can provide a more secure fit than many standard options.
Are There Any Side Effects of Sport Guard?
It may take a short time to become comfortable wearing a new mouthguard. An improperly fitted guard may cause discomfort or irritation. If your mouthguard feels loose, painful, or uncomfortable, your dentist can check the fit and recommend adjustments.
How Long Does a Sports Mouthguard Last?
A sports mouthguard can last several years with proper care, but its lifespan depends on usage, wear, fit, and changes to your teeth. Children and teenagers may need replacement more often as their teeth and jaws develop. Replace your mouthguard if it becomes cracked, worn, loose, uncomfortable, or no longer fits properly.
How Do I Care for My Sports Mouthguard?
Keep your mouthguard clean and protected between uses:
- Rinse it with cool water after use.
- Clean it as recommended by your dentist.
- Allow it to air dry before storing.
- Keep it in a ventilated protective case.
- Avoid hot water and excessive heat.
- Keep it away from pets.
Replace the mouthguard if it becomes damaged, worn, loose, or no longer fits properly.
Does CDCP Cover Cost of Sports Mouthguards?
Coverage for custom sports mouthguards varies between dental insurance plans. Check your specific benefits or speak with your insurance provider to determine whether your appliance is covered.
Protect your smile with regular care from our experienced Hamilton dental, providing comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages
