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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Sports Guards in Long Point
Hockey, ball, martial arts or biking: a well-fitted sports guard helps protect teeth and lips. Long Point adults and teens can ask about custom guards in Port Dover.
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Caring for Long Point residents, cottagers and visitors at our Port Dover office
Browse every dental service for Long PointProtect your teeth in play
A guard you forget you are wearing is one that actually gets worn.
Sports guards cushion the teeth, lips and cheeks against impact and reduce the risk of chipped, cracked or knocked-out teeth. They are recommended for contact sports and many recreational activities where falls or collisions happen. The best guard fits well, stays in place, allows breathing and speech and is comfortable enough that the athlete keeps it in from warm-up to the final whistle.
Long Point adults and teens who play sports can ask about custom sports guards at our Port Dover office. If your season has a start date, mention it when booking so the guard is ready in time.
Do you need one?
Many activities carry more risk than people expect.
Sports and activities
Hockey, football, rugby, lacrosse, boxing and martial arts are obvious candidates. Basketball, soccer, baseball, cycling, skateboarding and mountain biking also carry risk of mouth injury from falls, elbows or equipment. Adults in recreational leagues are just as vulnerable as competitive athletes.
Dental factors
People with braces, crowns, bridges, implants or protruding front teeth may face higher risk or more costly damage. A guard can protect dental work as well as natural teeth. Discuss your restorations with the dentist so the guard is designed appropriately.
Types of guards
Fit determines both comfort and protection.
Stock and boil-and-bite
Stock guards come ready to wear and are inexpensive but often fit loosely and can make breathing or speaking difficult. Boil-and-bite guards are softened in hot water and moulded by biting. They fit better than stock guards but can be bulky or thin in critical areas.
Custom-fitted guards
Custom guards are made from impressions or scans of your teeth. They can be designed with appropriate thickness for your sport and typically stay in place better. Many athletes find them more comfortable, which makes consistent use more likely.
Getting one made
Plan ahead of your season.
Records and design
The dentist examines your teeth and takes impressions or scans. You can discuss colour, thickness and any special features. The guard is then fabricated. Allow time before your first game or practice, especially if you are planning around a tournament or a busy summer schedule.
Fitting and testing
When the guard is ready, the dentist checks fit, retention and comfort. You should be able to breathe, drink and speak reasonably well with it in. Adjustments are made if needed. Wear it at practice too, so it becomes a habit.
Care and replacement
A clean, intact guard protects best.
Cleaning and storage
Rinse the guard after each use and clean it with a soft brush and cool water. Let it dry and store it in a ventilated case. Keep it out of hot cars, direct sunlight and away from pets. Avoid chewing on it, which can weaken the material.
When to replace
Bring the guard to dental checkups for inspection. Replace it if it is torn, worn thin, loose or no longer fits after dental work. Teens may need replacements more often as their mouths change. If you take a hit and a tooth feels loose or chipped, call the office promptly.
Planning your appointment
Ordering a sports guard from Long Point
Call our Port Dover office to book a sports guard appointment. Mention your sport, any dental work and when your season starts so the team can plan the timing.
If you wear braces or an orthodontic appliance, bring details from your orthodontist so the guard can be designed around them.
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.
Is a custom guard better than a store-bought one?
Custom guards usually fit more securely and comfortably, which encourages consistent use. Store-bought options can provide some protection but may be loose or bulky. The dentist can discuss what suits your sport.
Can I talk and breathe with a custom guard?
Most athletes can speak and breathe reasonably well with a well-fitted custom guard. If it feels restrictive, the dentist can check and adjust the design for comfort.
Do adults really need sports guards?
Yes. Adults in recreational sports face similar risks to younger players, and repairing adult teeth and restorations can be involved. A guard is a simple way to reduce that risk.
How long does a sports guard last?
It depends on use and care. Many adults use the same guard for a season or longer, while teens may need replacements as they grow. Have it checked at dental visits.
What if a tooth is knocked out during play?
Handle the tooth by the crown, keep it moist in milk and contact a dentist immediately. Seek emergency care for head injury or heavy bleeding. Prompt action improves the chance of saving it.
Protection and injury care
Additional Services →Children’s Sports Mouthguards →
From hockey to summer ball, active kids need tooth protection that fits. Long Point families can ask about kids’ sports mouthguards at our Port Dover office.
Dental Trauma Treatment →
Falls, boating bumps and sports collisions can loosen, push or break teeth. Long Point patients should call our Port Dover office promptly after a mouth injury.