All About Sports Guards
Sports guards do more than protect your teeth. They shield braces, dental implants, and bridges, and also protect the inside of your cheeks and lips in case of an accident. For those involved in sports or activities with a risk of falls, contact, or flying equipment, a sports guard is essential. While generic options are helpful, a custom-made guard designed specifically for your mouth provides superior protection and comfort. Dr. Hartman is dedicated to offering affordable occlusal guards, believing in their importance for both TMJ patients and overall dental health.
So What Are Your Options?
Stock Sports Guards
Pre-formed and ready to wear, stock sports guards are widely available in sporting goods stores. However, they often don’t fit well, can feel bulky, and make breathing or talking difficult. Many athletes find them distracting and may remove or adjust them during the game.
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
These guards come with instructions and a kit to heat and mold the guard to your teeth. While they offer a better fit than stock guards, they may still feel uncomfortable or bulky, making it hard to breathe or talk. If you’re not satisfied, a custom guard might be a better solution.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
No surprises here — custom-made sports guards are our top recommendation! Tailored to fit your unique mouth and teeth, they provide the best protection and maximum comfort. If for any reason they’re not perfect, we’re here to adjust them and ensure you’re fully satisfied.
The Cost of a Custom Sports Guard in St. Paul
The price of a custom sports guard typically ranges from $150 to $350 or more, depending on individual needs.
Why the variation in cost? Two primary factors come into play:
The two major factors that contribute to the cost are the material used and the complexity of the design.
- Material: Custom guards can be crafted from various materials like acrylic, rubber, or laminated plastic, with some options costing more than others.
- Design Complexity: The more detailed and specialized the design, the more time and expertise required, which can drive up the cost.
Other considerations, such as the dental practice’s location, your insurance coverage, and the dentist’s experience, may also affect the final price. Keep in mind that an accurate estimate can’t be provided over the phone. A consultation and oral exam are necessary to fully understand your needs and offer a precise quote.
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. While both mouthguards and nightguards are designed to fit snugly over your teeth, they serve different purposes. Sports guards are designed to protect your mouth from impact, whereas nightguards are made to protect your bite and the alignment of your teeth and jaw.
A sports guard, mouth guard, and mouth protector all refer to the same device used during physical activities to safeguard the teeth and jaw. On the other hand, a nightguard is worn while you sleep to protect against teeth grinding. Each of these devices is custom-designed to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
The lifespan of a sports guard typically lasts around one year. It may last longer if made from durable materials, cleaned after each use, and stored properly. Regularly inspect the guard for signs of wear, and it’s recommended to have it checked by a dental professional annually.
A well-fitting sports guard is crucial for proper protection. To ensure a good fit, check for comfort, movement, and coverage. It should be comfortable to wear, not interfere with speech or breathing, fit securely without falling out, allow normal biting, and protect all upper teeth and gums. Regular check-ups with your dentist will help ensure it stays in good condition, and you should replace it as needed.
Sports guards are essential for any sport or activity that poses a risk of impact to the face or jaw. Common examples include football, hockey, basketball, boxing, lacrosse, martial arts, and skateboarding. However, this list is not exhaustive. If your sport or activity carries a risk of facial or jaw injury, it’s a good idea to wear a sports guard, regardless of whether it’s specifically mentioned.
Yes, wearing a sports guard with braces is not only possible, but it’s also strongly recommended. A custom-fitted sports guard will protect your braces, teeth, and the inside of your cheeks and lips from injury during physical activities. It can be designed to comfortably fit around your braces. However, it’s a good idea to check with your orthodontist before getting one, to ensure it won’t disrupt your ongoing treatment.
What Our Patients Are Saying
- Video testimonials
- Google reviews
Long Term Patient
Very Professional and COVID Safe
Family Oriented Dental Practice
