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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Sports Guards in Nanticoke
Whether you play rec hockey or weekend ball, a fitted sports guard helps protect teeth. Nanticoke athletes can learn how guards are made at our Port Dover office.
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Caring for Nanticoke patients at our Port Dover office
Browse every service for Nanticoke patientsProtect your teeth on the field
A well-fitted guard is simple protection against dental injury.
Contact sports, ball sports and even recreational activities like cycling and skateboarding can lead to chipped, cracked or knocked-out teeth and injuries to the lips and jaw. A sports guard cushions impacts and spreads the force. A guard that fits properly stays in place, lets you breathe and speak and is more likely to actually be worn.
Adult and teen athletes from Nanticoke can arrange a custom sports guard at our Port Dover office. The dentist will consider your sport, your bite and any dental work before recommending a design that offers comfortable, reliable protection.
Why wear one
Dental injuries are often preventable.
Preventing dental injuries
A sports guard absorbs and distributes impact forces, reducing the risk of broken teeth, damage to roots and cuts to the lips and cheeks. It may also help protect crowns, bridges and other dental work. Treating a dental injury can involve multiple visits and costs, so prevention is worthwhile.
Which sports carry risk
Hockey, football, lacrosse, rugby, boxing and martial arts carry obvious risks, but basketball, soccer, baseball, volleyball and mountain biking can also cause dental injuries. Adults in recreational leagues are at risk too. Ask the dentist about protection for your particular sports and activities.
Choosing a guard
Fit and comfort vary between guard types.
Custom-made guards
A custom sports guard is made from impressions or scans of your teeth and fitted by the dentist. It follows the shape of your mouth closely, stays in place and allows easier breathing and speech. The thickness can be tailored to your sport. Many athletes find custom guards more comfortable to wear for a full game.
Boil-and-bite and stock guards
Stock and boil-and-bite guards are widely available. They may be better than nothing, but they can be bulky, loose or uneven, which makes them less comfortable and less protective. If you already have one, bring it to the appointment so the dentist can assess its fit and compare it with custom options.
Getting fitted
A custom guard usually involves two short visits.
Records of your teeth
At the first appointment, the dentist examines your teeth and takes impressions or a scan. Mention any dental work, orthodontic treatment or jaw issues. The guard is made to fit your mouth and the demands of your sport. Let the team know about the timing of your season so the guard can be ready.
Fitting and adjustments
At the fitting, the guard is checked for comfort, fit and how your teeth contact it. You should be able to close your mouth comfortably, breathe and speak. Small adjustments may be made. Wear it during practices before games to get used to it. Contact the office if it feels tight or rubs.
Care
Keep your guard clean and in good condition.
Cleaning and storage
Rinse the guard after each use and clean it with a soft brush and cool water. Store it in a ventilated case and keep it away from heat, such as a hot car, which can warp it. Do not share guards. Clean the case regularly too, since bacteria can build up in a damp sports bag.
Replacing worn guards
Check the guard for tears, holes or thinning from chewing. A damaged guard offers less protection. Bring it to dental checkups so the dentist can assess fit and wear. Dental work or orthodontic changes may require a new guard. If a tooth is injured despite the guard, call the office promptly.
Planning your appointment
Fitting a sports guard from Nanticoke
Contact our Port Dover office to arrange a sports guard fitting. Mention your sport, any dental work and when your season starts so the guard can be ready in time.
Bring any current guard for comparison, and let the team know about braces or upcoming dental treatment.
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 and recreational sports can suffer dental injuries just like younger players. A properly fitted guard can help protect natural teeth and dental work such as crowns and bridges.
Is a custom guard worth it over a store-bought one?
Custom guards generally fit better, stay in place and are more comfortable, which makes people more likely to wear them. The dentist can compare options and explain what is best for your sport and teeth.
Can I wear a sports guard with braces?
Yes. Special designs can accommodate braces. Protection is especially important with orthodontic appliances. Let the dentist and orthodontist know, so the guard can be planned around your treatment.
How often should I replace my sports guard?
It depends on use, wear and changes in your teeth. Check it regularly for damage and bring it to checkups. The dentist will advise when replacement is needed to maintain protection.
Is a sports guard the same as a night guard?
No. Sports guards are designed to absorb impact during activity, while night guards protect against grinding during sleep. They differ in material, thickness and fit, so one should not substitute for the other.
Protection and injury care
Additional Services →Children’s Sports Mouthguards →
Hockey, soccer or baseball season coming up? Learn how a fitted mouthguard can help protect your Nanticoke child’s teeth and how it is made in Port Dover.
Dental Trauma Treatment →
Falls, sports and accidents can loosen, crack or dislodge teeth. Nanticoke patients can learn first steps and how injured teeth are assessed in Port Dover.