What you need to know about sports guards
A sports guard is one of the most practical investments you can make for your oral health if you play contact sports or participate in activities that carry a risk of falls or collisions.
Beyond protecting your teeth from direct impact, a well-fitted guard also cushions the inside of your cheeks and lips, shields existing dental work such as dental bridges and dental implants, and reduces the risk of jaw injuries that can result from a sudden blow.
Any guard is better than no guard, but a guard that fits poorly is more likely to be removed during play. A custom-made guard stays in place, allows you to breathe and speak normally, and provides a level of protection that over-the-counter options simply cannot match.
Your sports guard options
Stock sports guards
Stock guards come pre-formed and ready to wear directly from the packaging. They are widely available at sporting goods stores and are the most affordable option upfront. However, they tend to fit poorly, feel bulky, and make breathing and speaking during activity more difficult. Many athletes find them uncomfortable enough to remove during play, which defeats the purpose entirely.
Boil and bite sports guards
Boil and bite guards offer a modest improvement in fit. The guard is softened in boiling water and then shaped by biting into it. They are also available at most sporting goods retailers. The fit is better than a stock guard, but the result can still be bulky or uncomfortable depending on the shape of your mouth. If a boil and bite guard feels difficult to wear consistently, a custom guard is worth considering.
Custom-made mouth guards
A custom sports guard made by your dental team is fabricated from an impression of your own teeth, which means it fits precisely and stays secure during activity. It is the most comfortable option available and the most effective at absorbing and distributing impact. If any adjustments are needed after fitting, they can be made at a follow-up visit. For patients with braces or existing dental work, a custom guard is strongly recommended.
Cost of a custom sports guard in Charlotte, NC
The cost of a custom sports guard varies depending on individual factors. With dental insurance, most patients pay approximately $100 to $300 or more out of pocket. Without insurance, a custom guard typically ranges from $150 to $350 and up.
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Two main factors influence the final cost:
- The type of material used in fabricating the guard.
- Whether ongoing orthodontic treatment needs to be accounted for in the design.
An accurate quote can only be provided after an in-person exam. If you have dental insurance, a detailed estimate can be submitted on your behalf so you understand your out-of-pocket costs before committing.
Schedule your exam and consultation
Your visit begins with a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, soft tissues, and bite. We want to understand the full picture of your oral health before recommending any course of treatment.
Before moving forward, we take the time to learn about your health history, any concerns you may have, and what you’re hoping to achieve. Our goal is to make sure you feel informed and comfortable every step of the way. Contact us today to book your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Any athlete participating in contact sports or activities with a risk of falls, collisions, or flying equipment should wear a sports guard. This includes sports such as football, basketball, hockey, soccer, martial arts, gymnastics, and cycling. Even non-contact sports carry some risk of dental injury, and a guard is a straightforward precaution worth taking.
Yes, and it is especially important to do so. Braces create additional risk during impact because the brackets and wires can damage the soft tissue inside the mouth. A custom guard designed to accommodate your orthodontic appliances provides the best protection in this situation. Stock and boil and bite guards are generally not recommended for patients currently in orthodontic treatment.
A well-maintained custom sports guard typically lasts one to three years, though this varies depending on how frequently it is used, how it is cared for, and whether your teeth have shifted since it was made. Children and teenagers may need replacement guards more frequently as their mouths continue to develop. Your dentist can assess the condition of your guard at routine visits.
Rinse your guard with cool water before and after each use. Clean it regularly with a toothbrush and mild soap, and allow it to air dry before storing it in its case. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or a hot car, as heat can warp the material. Never clean it with hot water for the same reason. Bring it to your dental appointments so the fit can be checked over time.
A properly fitted custom guard should have minimal impact on your ability to breathe or speak during activity. The most common complaints about breathing and speech difficulties come from stock and boil and bite guards, which tend to be thicker and less precisely fitted. If your custom guard feels uncomfortable or affects your performance, adjustments can be made.
There is ongoing research into whether sports guards offer any reduction in concussion risk. While a guard’s primary and well-established role is to protect teeth, soft tissue, and the jaw from direct impact, some studies suggest that a properly fitted guard may help absorb some of the forces transmitted through the jaw during impact. It is not a substitute for appropriate protective headgear, but it is a valuable part of overall protection.
The process begins with an impression of your teeth, which is used to create a precise model of your mouth. The guard is then fabricated from durable, medical-grade material that conforms exactly to your tooth shape and bite. Once ready, you will try it in and any minor adjustments will be made to ensure a secure, comfortable fit before you take it home.
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