All about sports guards
Sports guards don’t just protect your teeth. They also protect braces and fixed dental appliances (like bridges and dental implants) and protect the inside of your cheeks and lips from your braces in the event of an accident. A sports guard is a wise investment for anyone participating in activities and sports which involve falls, body contact or flying equipment. Any sports guard is better than no sports guard, but nothing beats a guard made by your dental team and personalized for your mouth and teeth.So what are your options?
Stock Sports Guards
These come pre-formed and ready to wear and are available where sporting goods are sold. They often don’t fit very well, can feel bulky in your mouth and make breathing or talking difficult. Athletes often find themselves distracted by this appliance, and take it out or play with it while the game is on.
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
These come in a kit with instructions. You boil the blank guard in water and then bite into the plastic to form the guard to your teeth. These are also available where sporting goods are sold and offer a better fit than stock guards, but this method isn’t for everyone. If your boil & bite guard is uncomfortable, bulky or makes it difficult to breathe or talk, consider a custom guard.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
Are you surprised this is our favourite? Well with good reason! There is no substitute for an individualized, custom-made mouthguard. A sports guard made by us will offer the best protection and be the most comfortable. And in the unlikely event that it’s not comfortable? We are right here to make the adjustments and you can hold us accountable.
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. Though mouthguards and nightguards are both snuggly fitted to your teeth, they’re designed to perform different functions for your teeth and jaw. Sports guards are focused on protecting your mouth from impact, and night guards are focused on your bite and the position of your teeth and jaw.
These are all different names for the same thing: a device worn over your teeth that protects them from injury or reduces the severity of an injury.
Ideally, guards should be replaced after each sports season. Mouth guards can wear down over time, especially if the wearer has a habit of chewing or abusing their appliance. Teeth can also shift in adolescents which means their guard won’t quite fit as well. Many athletes who play several sports get a new sports guard made when they go for their routine 6-month checkup.
A custom-fit sports guard should feel comfortable in your mouth. It should be easy to breathe and talk. If you find yourself fidgeting with it or taking it out of your mouth during the big game, it might not be fitting right.
Any sport or activity where you might fall, come into contact with other players, or get hit by a ball or other equipment. Consider a sports guard if you or your child play 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.
You are extra encouraged to wear a sports guard! Not only does it protect your teeth, but it also protects your braces and the inside of your lips and cheeks from your braces should you be struck in the face.
Google Verified Patient Reviews
Leanne MacMullin
1 month ago
My first visit was today for a cleaning, Jen was excellent and she listened to all my concerns before we started the appointment. She went above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable. The front staff were very friendly, the office was very clean and bright. Thank you for being patient.
Tina
1 month ago
I could go on and on about my experience because it was that great.. However, I will say, everything about my experience today exceeded my expectations and I do highly recommend.. My future looks brighter now that I made the switch to this dental office.. Not even kidding.. It’s the little things! Thank you Brighton Dental Centre, Tina 🙂
Phil Young
1 month ago
Great dental clinic! Brooke is so friendly and puts you at ease. She is also excellent at her job providing you with the best of care.
Mary Adams
2 months ago
From the time I was a child, I have never liked visiting the dentist. Although I still cannot say I "enjoy" it, the team at Brighton Dental Centre has turned my dental experiences and outlook around. From the skilled dentists to the friendly, efficient support staff, you feel well cared for from start to finish. On my first visit I was impressed with the bright and modern space transformation and the modern technology used in every procedure. Costs are clearly laid out and relayed before your visit so there are no surprises. All of the staff are very kind and strive to make your appointment run smoothly and on time. If you are looking for a new dentist, as I was, you won't find a better place to go. I highly recommend Brighton Dental Centre.
Heather Piechocki
3 months ago
I am so happy that I decided to go to Brighton Dental Center and will continue to have them as my dental care provider. Staff is awesome as was the dentist. Atmosphere is great and they made sure that I had the best experience and it was. 👍👍
Leanne MacMullin
1 month ago
My first visit was today for a cleaning, Jen was excellent and she listened to all my concerns before we started the appointment. She went above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable. The front staff were very friendly, the office was very clean and bright. Thank you for being patient.
Tina
1 month ago
I could go on and on about my experience because it was that great.. However, I will say, everything about my experience today exceeded my expectations and I do highly recommend.. My future looks brighter now that I made the switch to this dental office.. Not even kidding.. It’s the little things! Thank you Brighton Dental Centre, Tina 🙂
Phil Young
1 month ago
Great dental clinic! Brooke is so friendly and puts you at ease. She is also excellent at her job providing you with the best of care.
Mary Adams
2 months ago
From the time I was a child, I have never liked visiting the dentist. Although I still cannot say I "enjoy" it, the team at Brighton Dental Centre has turned my dental experiences and outlook around. From the skilled dentists to the friendly, efficient support staff, you feel well cared for from start to finish. On my first visit I was impressed with the bright and modern space transformation and the modern technology used in every procedure. Costs are clearly laid out and relayed before your visit so there are no surprises. All of the staff are very kind and strive to make your appointment run smoothly and on time. If you are looking for a new dentist, as I was, you won't find a better place to go. I highly recommend Brighton Dental Centre.
Heather Piechocki
3 months ago
I am so happy that I decided to go to Brighton Dental Center and will continue to have them as my dental care provider. Staff is awesome as was the dentist. Atmosphere is great and they made sure that I had the best experience and it was. 👍👍
