What is a Sports Guard?
A sports guard is a personalised dental appliance that protects your teeth, braces, bridges, implants, and soft tissues inside your mouth while playing sports. If you’re active in contact sports or activities with higher risk, getting a custom-fitted sports guard from your dentist is a smart move. It fits comfortably, keeps your smile safe, and lets you enjoy your favourite activities without worry.
So What Are Your Options?
Stock Sports Guards
These are ready-made guards found at sporting goods stores. While affordable, they’re often bulky, uncomfortable, and may not fit securely, causing distraction or even prompting athletes to remove them during play.
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
Boil & bite guards provide a slightly better fit since they’re moulded at home after heating in boiling water. However, they can still feel bulky and may affect your breathing or speaking clearly during sports.
Custom Made Sports Guard
Our top recommendation for athletes is a custom-made sports guard. Individually designed and crafted by our dental team, these guards offer an excellent fit, maximum protection, and superior comfort. If adjustments are needed, we’re here to ensure your guard always feels great, keeping your focus on the game.
Cost of Sports Guards in Niagara
A sports guard is a valuable investment to protect your oral health during athletic activities. Pricing varies based on type and customization:
- Stock Sports Guards: Usually $10–$30. These offer basic protection but often sacrifice comfort and fit.
- Boil & Bite Sports Guards: Typically $20–$50. Better fit and protection than stock guards, but can still feel bulky or uncomfortable.
- Custom-Made Sports Guards: Generally $100–$300. Individually designed by your dentist, these provide superior comfort, ideal fit, and the best protection for your teeth, braces, and dental appliances.
Insurance Coverage:
Many dental insurance plans partially cover the cost, particularly if the guard is medically necessary. Check with your provider for details on your coverage.
While custom-made guards involve a higher initial investment, their unmatched comfort, durability, and protection offer lasting peace of mind for athletes.
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
Many dental insurance plans partially or fully cover sports guards, especially if medically necessary. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to confirm your coverage details.
Schedule an appointment with our dental team. We’ll take precise impressions of your teeth and craft a personalized guard, ensuring optimal comfort, fit, and protection.
Clean your sports guard regularly with mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid hot water or abrasive cleaners, and store it safely in a ventilated case between uses.
Yes—sports guards can and should be worn with braces. A custom-made guard provides the best fit, comfort, and protection for athletes undergoing orthodontic treatment.
The ideal sports guard depends on your comfort, activity level, and protection needs. During your consultation, our team will help you choose the right type for your individual situation.
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