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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Sports Guards in La Salette
Adult and teen athletes in La Salette can be fitted for a custom sports guard in Port Dover. Learn how fit affects protection, comfort and breathing.
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Caring for La Salette patients at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for La SaletteProtection that stays put
A well-fitted guard can reduce the risk of dental injury during sport.
Contact sports, recreational leagues and activities with a risk of falls can all lead to chipped, cracked or knocked-out teeth. A sports guard cushions impacts and helps protect the teeth, lips and cheeks. A custom guard fits snugly and comfortably, making it easier to talk, breathe and stay focused on the game.
Athletes of all ages from La Salette can be fitted for a custom guard at our Port Dover office. The dentist will consider your sport, level of contact and any dental work or braces before recommending a design that suits you.
Why wear one
Prevention is far easier than repairing an injury.
Protecting teeth and soft tissue
A guard absorbs and spreads the force of a blow, reducing the chance of fractured or knocked-out teeth. It also protects the lips and cheeks from cuts against the teeth. For people with crowns, bridges or braces, a guard helps protect dental work that could be costly or difficult to repair.
Sports where guards are wise
Hockey, lacrosse, football, rugby, basketball, soccer, martial arts and boxing are common examples where guards are recommended. Even non-contact activities with a risk of falls, like skateboarding or mountain biking, can lead to dental injuries. The dentist can discuss your specific risk.
Custom versus stock
Fit affects both protection and comfort.
Why custom guards fit better
Custom guards are made from impressions or scans of your teeth, so they fit closely and stay in place without biting down. This can make breathing and speaking easier, which encourages consistent use. A good fit also helps the guard spread forces evenly across the teeth.
Store-bought options
Stock and boil-and-bite guards are widely available and offer some protection. However, they can be bulky, loose or uneven, and some people find them uncomfortable enough to leave out. The dentist can help you compare options based on your sport and needs.
Fitting process
Custom guards are made in a couple of steps.
Impressions and design choices
At the first visit, impressions or a scan of your teeth are taken. You can discuss thickness, colour and design based on your sport. If you wear braces or have upcoming dental work, mention it, since this may affect the guard design.
Fitting and adjustments
When the guard is ready, the dentist checks the fit, edges and bite. Try talking and swallowing with it in place. Adjustments can be made for comfort. You will receive care instructions and guidance on when to have the fit rechecked.
Care and replacement
Good care helps the guard last and stay hygienic.
Cleaning and storage
Rinse the guard after each use and clean it gently with a toothbrush and cool water. Let it dry and store it in a ventilated case. Keep it away from heat, such as a hot car, which can warp the material. Do not chew on the guard or share it.
When to replace it
Replace the guard if it becomes loose, cracked, worn or uncomfortable, or after dental work changes your bite. Bring it to dental checkups for inspection. If you take a hit to the mouth, have your teeth checked even if they look fine.
Planning your appointment
Sports guard fittings for La Salette.
Book an appointment at our Port Dover office and mention your sport and season start date. Allow time for the guard to be made before play begins.
Mention braces, crowns or recent dental injuries so the design can account for your dental situation.
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.
Do adults need sports guards?
Yes. Adults in contact sports or activities with a risk of falls can injure their teeth. A guard helps protect natural teeth and dental work like crowns and bridges.
Is a custom guard worth it?
Custom guards usually fit better and are more comfortable, which encourages consistent use. Store-bought options offer some protection. The dentist can help you decide based on your needs.
Can I wear a sports guard with braces?
Yes. Protection is important with braces to prevent injuries to lips and cheeks. A guard designed for orthodontic appliances may be recommended.
How long does a sports guard last?
It depends on use, care and changes in your teeth. Replace it when it becomes worn, loose or damaged. Regular checks help determine when a new guard is needed.
What if I knock out a tooth while playing?
For a permanent tooth, handle it by the crown, keep it moist in milk and seek help immediately. Call 911 for serious head injuries or uncontrolled bleeding.
Related protection and injury care
Additional Services →Children’s Sports Mouthguards →
Young La Salette athletes can be fitted for a custom sports mouthguard in Port Dover. Learn how fit is checked, why growth matters and when to replace it.
Dental Trauma Treatment →
A fall, sports collision or farm accident can injure teeth. La Salette patients can learn what to do first, when to go to emergency and why follow-up matters.