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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Teen athlete discussing a custom sports guard with a dentist in Port Dover

Port Dover Family Dentistry

Sports Guards in Fishers Glen

Contact sports and falls can damage teeth fast. Fishers Glen athletes of any age can learn how a custom sports guard is fitted and cared for in Port Dover.

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Caring for Fishers Glen patients at our Port Dover office

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Protect your teeth in play

A well-fitted guard can prevent a lot of dental damage.

Hockey, football, rugby, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, boxing, martial arts and even recreational activities like cycling and skateboarding all carry some risk of impact to the face. A sports guard cushions blows to the mouth, helping protect teeth from chipping, cracking or being knocked out, and reducing cuts to the lips and cheeks. Fit matters, because a guard that is uncomfortable or loose is unlikely to be worn.

Adults and teens from Fishers Glen who play sports can have a custom guard made at our Port Dover office. The dentist will check your teeth, ask about your sport and any dental work or braces, and discuss a design that balances protection and comfort.

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Dentist taking a digital scan for a custom sports guard while a young hockey player watches

Why custom

Comfort and fit affect protection.

Stock and boil-and-bite guards

Stock guards come pre-formed and are often bulky, making it hard to talk or breathe. Boil-and-bite guards are softened and shaped at home, offering a better fit but sometimes uneven thickness. Both can work for some people, but they may shift during play or feel uncomfortable enough that athletes take them out or chew on them.

Custom-fitted guards

A custom guard is made from impressions or scans of your teeth, so it fits closely and stays in place. It can be made with appropriate thickness for your sport and adjusted for comfort. Many athletes find custom guards easier to talk and breathe with, which makes it more likely they will wear the guard consistently.

Special considerations

Your dental situation affects guard design.

Wearing braces

If you wear braces, a guard needs to allow for brackets and tooth movement. Some guards are designed to fit over braces, while custom guards may need to be remade as teeth shift. Discuss your orthodontic treatment with the dentist and orthodontist, so the guard protects both your teeth and the appliance. Fit is rechecked often.

Crowns, bridges and implants

Crowns, bridges, veneers and implants can be damaged by impacts too. A guard helps protect this investment. Let the dentist know about any dental work, as it may influence the design. If you have missing teeth or a removable partial denture, the guard can be made to accommodate these as well. Mention everything, even small fillings.

Making the guard

A custom guard is usually ready after a short wait.

  1. Impressions or scans

    The dentist examines your teeth and takes impressions or scans. You will discuss your sport, position and any preferences, such as colour or thickness. Let the team know if you gag easily, so they can take steps to make the impression process comfortable for you. The whole visit is usually brief and straightforward for most athletes.

  2. Fitting and checking

    When the guard is ready, it is tried in to check fit, comfort and your ability to breathe and speak. Adjustments may be made. You should be able to close your mouth comfortably and the guard should stay in place without biting down. Wear it during practice before a big game to get used to it.

Care and replacement

Keep your guard clean and in good shape.

  • Cleaning and storage

    Rinse the guard with cool water after each use and brush it gently. Store it in a ventilated case and let it dry. Keep it out of hot cars and away from direct sunlight, which can warp it. Avoid chewing on the guard, as this weakens the material and reduces its protective ability. Label the case.

  • When to replace it

    Bring the guard to your dental checkups so its fit and condition can be checked. Replace it if it becomes torn, thin, loose or no longer fits well. Teens and anyone with dental changes may need replacements more often. After any significant impact, have both the guard and your teeth checked. Do it promptly, even without pain.

Planning your appointment

Sports guard visits for Fishers Glen athletes.

Call our Port Dover office to book a sports guard appointment, ideally before the season starts. Let the team know your sport and any orthodontic treatment or dental work you have.

If you already have a guard that is not working for you, bring it along so the dentist can see what to improve in the new design.

Port Dover Family Dentistry

697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2
519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact details

Before you book

Sports guard questions

Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.

Which sports need a mouthguard?

Any sport with a risk of falls, collisions or flying objects can benefit, including hockey, football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, martial arts and skateboarding. Ask the dentist about your specific activity and level of play, including practices.

Can I wear a guard with braces?

Yes, but the guard must accommodate brackets and moving teeth. Discuss options with the dentist and orthodontist. A guard designed for braces helps protect both your teeth and your orthodontic appliance. It may need replacing as teeth move.

How long does a sports guard last?

It depends on how often you use it and how much wear it gets. Adults may use the same guard for a few seasons, while teens may need replacements more often due to growth. Check it regularly for damage.

Does a mouthguard prevent concussions?

Mouthguards are designed mainly to protect teeth and soft tissues. Evidence that they prevent concussions is limited. Follow your sport’s safety guidelines, including helmet use and concussion protocols. Seek medical care for any suspected head injury.

What should I do if I injure a tooth while playing?

For a knocked-out adult tooth, handle it by the crown, keep it moist in milk and call a dentist immediately. For other injuries, call the office promptly. Seek emergency care for head injury or breathing problems.

Recognized year after year

Winner of the Three Best Rated Award

Best Dentists in Norfolk

Proudly recognized among Norfolk’s top-rated dental practices for six consecutive years.

  • Three Best Rated Best Business of 2021 Excellence award

    2021 Winner

  • Three Best Rated Best Business of 2022 Excellence award

    2022 Winner

  • Three Best Rated Best Business of 2023 Excellence award

    2023 Winner

  • Three Best Rated Best Business of 2024 Excellence award

    2024 Winner

  • Three Best Rated Best Business of 2025 Excellence award

    2025 Winner

  • Three Best Rated Best Business of 2026 Excellence award

    2026 Winner

Stories from our patients

Comfortable care, shared in their own words.

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New patients and CDCP patients are welcome. Tell us how we can help and our Port Dover dental team will follow up with you.

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