Sports Mouthguards

A mouthguard cushions blows to the face, helping prevent chipped or knocked-out teeth, cuts to the lips and cheeks, and injuries to the jaw. Custom mouthguards are part of our preventive care for athletes of every age.

If you participate in any kind of full-contact sport, the American Dental Association recommends that you wear a mouthguard.

Which sports need a mouthguard?

Football, hockey, lacrosse, boxing and martial arts carry the most obvious risk, but many dental injuries happen in basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, volleyball, skateboarding and cycling, where a fall or a ball to the face is common. If your child plays any sport with contact, falls or flying balls, a mouthguard is a good idea at practice as well as games.

Types of mouthguards

There are three basic types of mouthguards:

• Pre-made (stock) mouthguards, sold ready to wear. They are inexpensive but bulky, and they often fit loosely.
• “Boil-and-bite” mouthguards, softened in hot water and shaped to your teeth at home. They fit better than stock guards.
• Custom-made mouthguards from your dentist, made from a model of your teeth. They fit closely, stay in place, and make it easier to talk and breathe, so athletes are more likely to keep them in.

Choosing the right mouthguard

When you choose a mouthguard, pick one that is tear-resistant, comfortable and well fitted for your mouth, easy to keep clean, and does not prevent you from breathing properly. Your dentist can show you how to wear a mouthguard properly and help you choose the right one to protect your smile.

How a custom mouthguard is made

At one visit we take an impression of your teeth. Your mouthguard is made from that model, and at a short second visit we check the fit and comfort. If you wear braces, we can design a guard that fits over them.

Caring for your mouthguard

• Rinse your mouthguard after each use and let it air-dry
• Store it in a ventilated case, away from heat, so it does not warp
• Replace it if it becomes worn, torn or loose
• Bring it to your regular checkup so we can check the fit, especially for growing children

If an injury happens

If a tooth is chipped or knocked out during a game, find the tooth, handle it by the top rather than the root, and call us right away. Our emergency dental care page explains what to do in the first few minutes, when acting fast can save the tooth.

A mouthguard for sports is different from a nightguard for teeth grinding. Questions about cost? See our financial information. Request an appointment to have a custom mouthguard made before the season starts.