All about sports guards
Sports guards do more than just protect your teeth—they also help shield braces, dental bridges, implants, and other fixed appliances from damage. In case of an accident, they can also prevent injuries to your lips, cheeks, and gums caused by braces or hard contact.
If you play a sport that involves physical contact, falls, or fast-moving equipment, a sports guard is a smart way to stay safe. While any guard is better than none, nothing compares to the comfort, fit, and protection of a custom-made guard crafted by your dental team—designed specifically for your mouth and bite.
So what are your options?
Stock Sports Guards
These are the ready-to-wear guards you’ll find at most sporting goods stores. While convenient, they’re not designed to fit your mouth specifically. They often feel bulky, can make it hard to breathe or speak clearly, and tend to shift around during play. Many athletes end up removing them mid-game—which defeats the purpose!
Boil & Bite Sports Guards
A step up from stock versions, these come in a kit that allows you to soften the guard in hot water and then bite into it to create a better fit. They’re also widely available and more personalized than stock guards, but not perfect for everyone. If your guard still feels uncomfortable, too thick, or makes talking and breathing difficult, you might want to explore a custom-made option.
Custom-Made Mouth Guards
Surprise, surprise—this one’s our top recommendation! Custom sports guards, made by your dental team, are tailored specifically to your teeth, bite, and comfort. They offer the highest level of protection, feel secure and comfortable, and allow you to focus on your game—not on a guard that doesn’t fit. And if anything needs adjusting? We’re right here to make sure it’s just right.
Cost of Sports Guards in Kitchener
The cost of a custom sports guard can vary depending on your specific needs. If you have dental insurance, your out-of-pocket cost typically falls between $100 and $300+. Without insurance, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $350 or more.
- The material used to create your mouthguard
- Any special considerations for orthodontic treatment or existing dental appliances.
There are a couple of key factors that influence the cost:
Since every mouth is different, we can’t provide an exact price over the phone. A proper exam allows us to assess your needs and give you an accurate quote. If you’re insured, we’re happy to prepare a detailed estimate for you to submit to your provider so you can better understand your coverage 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
No. While both devices are custom-fitted to your teeth, they serve different purposes. Sports guards are designed to absorb and protect against impact during physical activity, while nightguards are made to reduce the effects of clenching or grinding (bruxism) and to support proper jaw alignment during sleep.
None—these terms are used interchangeably. All refer to a device worn over your teeth to help prevent or reduce dental injuries during physical activity.
Most sports guards should be replaced once per season—or sooner if they show signs of wear. If the wearer tends to chew on their guard or if their teeth shift (especially in growing children or teens), a new guard may be needed more frequently. Many athletes get their mouthguard checked or replaced at their 6-month dental visits.
A properly fitted guard should feel secure, comfortable, and allow you to breathe and speak easily. If it feels bulky, makes you gag, or you find yourself constantly removing or adjusting it during play, it may not be the right fit.
Any sport where falls, contact, or flying equipment are possible calls for a mouthguard. This includes:
- Football, hockey, lacrosse, and boxing
- Soccer, baseball, field hockey, and water polo
- Skateboarding, gymnastics, mountain biking, and wrestling
- Ringette, curling, cricket, and other high-impact or high-risk activities
Absolutely—and you should. A sports guard not only protects your teeth, but also shields your braces and the soft tissues of your mouth (like your lips and cheeks) in case of a hit to the face. Custom guards can be made to fit comfortably over braces.
Learn of the many ways we've enhanced the smiles and dental experiences of so many clients!
Very Happy With My Smile
Google Verified Patient Reviews
