Comprehensive Information on Sports Guards
Sports guards do more than protect your teeth; they also provide essential coverage for braces and permanent dental work, such as bridges and implants. In addition, they help prevent injuries to the soft inner tissues of your cheeks and lips, particularly in cases of accidental contact with braces.
Opting for a sports guard is a practical choice for anyone involved in activities or sports where falls, physical contact, or airborne equipment are common. While any guard offers some level of protection, a custom-fitted guard created by your dental team ensures optimal comfort and maximum safety.
So, What Choices Do You Have?
Stock Sports Guards
These ready-to-wear guards are available at most sporting goods stores. While convenient, they typically lack a proper fit, feel uncomfortable, and can make breathing or speaking difficult. Many athletes find them bothersome and often remove them or fidget with them during play.
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
Boil & bite guards are mouldable devices that come with instructions for customization. After heating the guard in water, you bite down to shape it to your teeth. While they fit better than stock guards and are also widely available, they might still feel awkward for some people. If you experience discomfort, bulkiness, or difficulty breathing or talking, a custom-fitted guard could be a better option.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
Our preferred option, and for good reason! A custom-made guard is designed specifically for your teeth and mouth, offering unmatched comfort and protection. If adjustments are ever needed, we’re here to make sure the guard fits perfectly, ensuring a solution that works best for you.
The Cost Of A Custom Sports Guard In St. Thomas
The price of a custom sports guard can vary greatly based on individual factors. For patients with insurance, the typical cost ranges from around $100 to $300 or more. Without insurance, the price generally falls between $150 and $350 or higher.
Why Does The Price Of A Custom Mouthguard Vary? There are two key elements that can influence the cost:
- Material: The type of material selected for your mouthguard can impact the overall price.
- Orthodontic Considerations: If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, the cost may be adjusted to account for additional requirements.
Dental offices are unable to provide exact pricing without seeing you in person. Since every individual’s needs are unique, a detailed oral examination is necessary to determine the precise cost. For those with insurance, we can supply a comprehensive quote for submission, helping you understand your potential 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
A sports guard is crucial for safeguarding your teeth, gums, and mouth during sports or other physical activities. It cushions impacts and reduces the likelihood of injuries such as fractured teeth, gum cuts, or jaw damage.
Sports guards typically need replacing every one to two years, depending on wear and tear. If you notice cracks, damage, or a loose fit that affects its protective function, it’s time for a replacement.
Dentist-fitted guards are designed specifically for your teeth, ensuring an accurate fit, better protection, and increased comfort. Over-the-counter options are mass-produced, less expensive, but often provide a poor fit and less effective protection.
Rinse your sports guard with cool water after each use and clean it with soap or a mild toothpaste. Store it in a ventilated case to keep it dry and prevent bacteria buildup. Avoid exposing it to heat, which can cause warping, and inspect it regularly for damage.
For athletes wearing braces or other dental devices, a specially designed guard is necessary to ensure both comfort and protection. These guards are made to fit around orthodontic hardware without interfering with your treatment. Consult with your dentist for the best option for your situation.
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