All about sports guards
Sports guards are a smart choice for anyone involved in activities that include falls, body contact, or flying objects. While any sports guard is better than none, the best protection comes from a guard made by your dental team that is personalized to fit your mouth and teeth.
So what are your options?
Stock sports guards
These come ready to wear and can be found at sporting goods stores. They often do not fit well, can feel bulky, and may make breathing or talking hard. Many athletes find themselves distracted by these guards and may remove or play with them during the game.
Boil and bite sports guards
These come with instructions to soften the guard in hot water and then bite down to shape it to your teeth. They offer a better fit than stock guards and are also sold at sporting goods stores. However, if your boil and bite guard feels uncomfortable, bulky, or makes breathing or talking difficult, a custom guard is a better choice.
Custom-made mouth guards
This is our preferred option for good reason. A custom made sports guard provides the best protection and comfort. If it is not comfortable, we are here to make adjustments and ensure it fits perfectly.
The cost of a custom sports guard in Etobicoke
The cost varies from person to person. With typical insurance, a custom mouth guard averages about one hundred to three hundred dollars. Without insurance, the price ranges from one hundred fifty to three hundred fifty dollars and up.
- The material used for the guard
- Whether you are undergoing ongoing orthodontic treatment
The cost depends mainly on two factors:
No dental practice can give a precise quote over the phone because your needs are unique. It is important to visit a dentist and have an oral exam to explore your options and receive an accurate quote. If you have dental insurance, we will gladly provide a quote to help you understand your out of pocket costs before you decide.
At our Dentist in Etobicoke, ON, we prioritize custom solutions that fit your lifestyle and protect your smile.
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. Although both fit snugly, sports guards protect your mouth from impact, while nightguards protect your teeth and jaw position during sleep.
These are different terms for the same device: something worn over your teeth to protect them from injury or reduce injury severity.
It is best to replace your guard after each sports season. Mouth guards wear down over time, especially if you chew on them. Since teeth can shift during adolescence, your guard might not fit as well. Many athletes get a new guard during their regular six month dental checkup.
A custom fit guard should feel comfortable, and you should be able to breathe and talk easily. If you frequently fidget with it or remove it during play, it may not fit properly.
Any sport or activity where you might fall, have contact with others, or be hit by a ball or equipment. Consider a 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 other contact or high risk sports.
Yes! You are especially encouraged to wear a sports guard. It protects not only your teeth but also your braces and the inside of your lips and cheeks from injury if you are hit in the face.
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