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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Sports Guards in Brantford
Playing hockey, rugby or another contact sport? Brantford athletes can get a custom sports guard fitted in Port Dover and learn how to keep it clean and effective.
New patients welcomeCDCP accepted
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Book an appointment
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Brantford patients are welcome at our Port Dover office
Browse every dental service for Brantford patientsProtect your teeth in play
Preventing a dental injury is far easier than repairing one.
Sports guards help protect teeth, lips, cheeks and jaws from impacts during contact sports and recreational activities. A well-fitted guard spreads the force of a blow and can reduce the risk of chipped, cracked or knocked-out teeth. Adults who play recreational hockey, rugby, basketball or martial arts can benefit just as much as young athletes.
Brantford athletes can arrange a custom sports guard at our Port Dover office. The dentist will consider your sport, bite and any dental work, then take impressions or scans so the guard fits securely. Booking before the season starts allows time for the guard to be made and adjusted without rushing.
Why custom?
A guard only protects you if you actually wear it.
Fit and comfort
Store-bought and boil-and-bite guards can be bulky, loose or uncomfortable, which makes it tempting to leave them in the bag. A custom guard is shaped to your teeth, so it tends to stay in place, feel thinner and make talking and breathing easier. Better comfort usually means more consistent use during games and practices.
Protection for dental work
Crowns, bridges, veneers and implants can be expensive to repair if damaged. A custom guard can be designed to protect existing dental work and account for gaps or orthodontic appliances. Let the dentist know about any restorations or braces so the guard is shaped to provide appropriate coverage and comfort.
Choosing the right guard
Different sports may call for different designs.
Matching the guard to your sport
High-impact sports such as hockey, football, lacrosse and boxing may need a thicker guard, while sports with less contact may allow a thinner design for easier breathing and speaking. Tell the dentist how often you play, your position and whether you wear a helmet or face shield. These details help the dentist recommend an appropriate design.
Thickness and helmet fit
If you wear a helmet with a face cage or chin strap, bring it to the impression visit, as it can affect how the guard sits. Some athletes prefer a guard with a strap attachment. The dentist will balance protection with comfort so the guard works well with the rest of your equipment during play.
Getting fitted
Fitting usually takes two brief visits.
Impressions or scans
At the first visit, the dentist checks your teeth and gums and takes impressions or scans. These are sent to a laboratory to make the guard. Ask how long fabrication takes so you can plan the pickup before your first game. For Brantford athletes, combining the impression visit with a checkup may save a trip.
Collecting your guard
When the guard is ready, the dentist checks the fit, makes adjustments and explains how to insert and remove it. You should be able to close comfortably, breathe and speak. If any area rubs or feels tight after wearing it at practice, call the office so an adjustment can be arranged.
Care and replacement
Simple care keeps the guard hygienic and effective.
Cleaning and storage
Rinse the guard after each use and brush it gently with cool water. Let it air-dry and store it in a ventilated case. Avoid leaving it in a hot car or near heat, which can warp the material. Do not share guards, and wash the case regularly to prevent bacteria from building up between uses.
When to replace it
Check the guard for tears, thinning or changes in fit. Replace it if it becomes damaged or loose. Dental work, tooth movement or orthodontic treatment may also require a new guard. Bring it to routine checkups so the dentist can assess whether it still offers adequate protection for your teeth.
Planning your appointment
Get fitted before the season from Brantford.
Contact our Port Dover office to book a sports guard appointment. Mention your sport, any dental work and whether you wear a helmet, so the dentist can recommend the right design.
Book a few weeks ahead of your season, since the guard needs time to be made and fitted.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Sports guard questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Which sports need a mouthguard?
Contact sports like hockey, football, rugby, lacrosse and martial arts carry obvious risk. Basketball, soccer, cycling and skateboarding can also lead to dental injuries. Ask the dentist whether a guard is advisable for your activities and level of play.
Is a custom guard better than a store-bought one?
Custom guards usually fit better, feel more comfortable and are worn more consistently. Store-bought guards can offer some protection but may be bulky or loose. The dentist can explain the differences and help you decide what suits your sport.
Can I wear a sports guard with braces?
Yes, but the design must allow for brackets and tooth movement. Tell the dentist about orthodontic treatment before the guard is made. A guard may need adjusting or replacing as teeth shift during treatment.
How long does a sports guard last?
It depends on how often you play and how you care for it. Many athletes replace guards every season or two. Damage, thinning or a change in fit are signs it is time for a new one.
What should I do if I injure a tooth while playing?
For a knocked-out adult tooth, replant it or store it in milk and seek the nearest dental care right away. For chips or loosened teeth, call for advice. Head injuries or heavy bleeding need emergency medical attention first.
Protection and injury care
Additional Services →Children’s Sports Mouthguards →
Hockey, soccer or martial arts this season? Brantford families can have a child’s mouthguard fitted in Port Dover and learn when to replace it as teeth change.
Dental Trauma Treatment →
After a fall or blow to the mouth, act quickly and in the right order. Brantford patients can learn when to go nearby first and how Port Dover handles follow-up.